Governor DeSantis Announces Expansion of Phase One of Florida’s Reopening Plan
May 15, 2020
By: Ferran Arimon & Amanda Wilson
Earlier today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that gyms and fitness centers may reopen beginning on Monday, May 18. Additionally, restaurants and stores may now move from operating at 25% capacity to operating at 50% capacity. DeSantis stated that these measures are appropriate considering the progress that Florida has made.
DeSantis also stated that bars will continue to remain closed. DeSantis provided no guidance as to when theme parks may reopen, but theme parks have been asked to submit detailed safety procedure plans to the state.
Indoor movie theaters are also to remain closed as DeSantis clarified that he is awaiting more guidance from the White House on how theaters could open while effectively practicing social distancing.
Regarding short-term rentals, DeSantis has taken a more localized approach and asked counties to pitch him their safety plans.
The announcement made by DeSantis is an expansion of Phase 1 of the state’s reopening plan and not a move to Phase 2. In support of this decision, DeSantis cited state data which shows that positive test results have decreased from 10.5% to 7.1% as of today.
Be sure to visit our Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Center page for the latest news.
This article is informational only. You should consult an attorney before acting or failing to act. The law may change rapidly and no warranty is given. LOWNDES DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ALL ARTICLES ARE PROVIDED AS IS AND WITH ALL FAULTS. Consult a Lowndes attorney if you wish to establish an attorney/client relationship.