(Editor’s note: This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is released.)
RALEIGH — Governor Roy Cooper has announced the state will enter phase two of the state’s 3-phase reopening plan following the Covid-19 pandemic. The move will take effect on Friday at 5 p.m.
Two weeks ago Cooper announced the state was entering phase one of the plan, which only opened a few additional commercial options and kept the ‘stay at home order’ in place.
Today, Cooper was joined by Dr. Mandy Cohen, secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, to review the latest data which has driven the Governor’s Office approach to restrictions and reopening. Cohen noted that while some data points could be better, she was overall happy with the trends of testing, hospitalization, and PPE supplies.
“Phase two is another careful step forward,” Cooper said.
While the numbers and trends are looking good, Cooper said because the numbers were not where they wanted them to be which is why the Governor is limiting the additional openings allowed for the next phase.
Although restaurants will be able to open at a reduced capacity, bars, nightclubs, gyms, and other businesses will have to stay closed.
Hair salons, swimming pools, and overnight and day camps will be allowed to reopen, at limited capacity.
“This next phase can help us boost our economy, and that is important,” Cooper said.
For a look at what phase two will be like, you can read more about it here.
