Maine Gov. Janet Mills extended Maine’s stay-at-home order and laid out a gradual plan to reopen Maine’s economy, according to WGME.
The stay-at home-order was extended to May 31. The new order will continue to have Mainers stay home, with exceptions of already permitted activities. It will also allow Mainers to visit businesses and participate in activities under stage 1 of the reopening plan.
Gov. Mills says she has a four-stage plan to reopen the state.
The first stage begins this Friday.
Some personal service businesses like hair salons and barbershops will be able to open their doors on Friday.
The first stage still prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people, and those who are entering or returning to Maine still must quarantine for 14 days.
Other activities like drive-in movies, stay in your vehicle religious services and golf will be allowed.
Certain state parks will also be cleared to open back up along with auto dealerships and car washes.
Gov. Mills says while this is a start. She doesn’t want Mainers to think we are out of the woods just yet.
“Please understand when I say we’re not flipping a switch today from closed to open. We are adjusting the dials, easing some restrictions while adding others. The month of May will look very similar to the month of April, except that you may with added precautions take your pet to the groomer, get a haircut, buy a car,” Gov. Mills said.
The second stage starts on June 1 and prohibits gatherings of more than 50 people. Certain workers will be able to return to the office unless they can continue at home.
Restaurants, gyms, and campgrounds will also open.
Stage three will start July 1 and allow hotels, bars and personal services to reopen.
The fourth stage is lifting restrictions altogether in Maine. A specific start date for that has not been determined yet.
