Note: This story is being updated as we know more.
While you may have already thought Florida was already completely in Phase One of the reopening plan, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Fri., May 15 that the Sunshine State was “fully” moving into Phase One starting Mon., May 18.
Here is what you need to know. ⬇️
- Gyms will be allowed to reopen (with social distancing).
- Restaurants + retailers can operate at 50% capacity.
- Museums + libraries can operate at 50% capacity.
- All long-term care facility staff will be tested
- Amusement parks can share plans for reopening (with dates + approval by local governments).
- Professional sports may resume training + venues can be used for seasonal games.
- Movie theatres + bars are not yet allowed to reopen.
- Vacation rentals are still prohibited.
Under Gov. DeSantis’ initial Phase One guidelines to reopen the state, gyms + fitness centers were to remain closed, and retail and restaurants could only use 25% of their indoor dining rooms. Barbershops, hair + nail salons also weren’t originally included, though those have been reopened as well.
So what’s the timeline for Phase Two? According to the governor, “Phase 2 will begin after the successful conclusion of Phase 1, which includes a downward trajectory of the syndromic and epidemiology criteria while maintaining adequate health care capacity. This will occur when there is no evidence of a rebound or resurgence of COVID-19 cases and satisfies the benchmarks outlined in this Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan.”
Share how you’re feeling about the reopening process by taking our poll, below. ⬇️