Governor Details Phased Plan to Reopen Oklahoma Beginning Friday

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt

at Wednesday's press conference.

In a Wednesday press conference Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt outlined a phased approach to reopening the state's economy and businesses after the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted commerce across the state. 

Stitt stated that his plan was developed "safely and responsibly" and was "based on data within the state".

Phase 1

Oklahomans are encouraged to continue to practice the "safer at home" guidelines for those 65 or older or individuals who are considered to be part of the vulnerable population. Social distancing, hand washing and all safety precautions are still encouraged, according to Stitt.

Stitt stated that on Friday, April 24 personal care businesses will be allowed to reopen by appointment and are expected to adhere to strict personal safety protocols. This would include hair salons, spas, barber shops, nail salons and pet groomers.

Grocery stores will be expected to maintain special shopping hours for the older and vulnerable population, Stitt said. 

Beginning Friday, May 1 restaurants can reopen for dine-in eating. Movie theaters, sports venues and fitness centers can reopen if adhering to strict personal safety protocols, Stitt said 

Places of worship will also be allowed to reopen on May 1. Staff and volunteers will be expected to wear masks when interacting with the public. Stitt added that serving of food and coffee will be prohibited and nurseries must remain closed. 

Bars must remain closed during this time, according to Stitt,

If hospital and incident rates remain manageable for 14 days the state will move to Phase 2 of the plan, Stitt said.

Phase 2

Stitt said that during Phase 2 organized sports activities may resume with proper social distancing. 

Bars will be allowed to reopen with diminished occupancy, proper social distancing and sanitation practices, Stitt said.

Funerals and weddings may resume with more than 10 people. 

Nurseries in places of worship will be allowed to reopen at this time, Stitt added.

Once again if hospital and incident rates remain manageable for another 14 days the state will move  to Phase 3 of the plan, according to Stitt.

Details of Phase 3 will be provided when the state is in Phase 2. 

Stitt stated that he would be monitoring the state's data daily and would "pull back" if needed, especially if there were to be a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in the state.

More detailed information is available on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website at www.okcommerce.gov.

Stitt continued to emphasize the importance the social distancing and hand washing to fight the spreads of COVID-19.

KXMX News Staff

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