Three Republican-led states announced plans to reopen as soon as this week even though they do not meet the criteria under the White House guidelines, CNN reports.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced on Monday that certain businesses like gyms, bowling alleys, tattoo shops, barbers, nail and hair salons, and massage parlors can reopen as early as Friday.
Theaters and restaurants will be allowed to reopen starting on Monday though bars and night clubs will remain shuttered.
Kemp also barred local governments from restricting businesses.
"We're probably going to have to see our cases continue to go up," Kemp acknowledged. "If we have an instance where a community starts becoming a hot spot, then, you know, I will take further action. But right now (I) feel like we're in a good spot to move forward.”
Tennessee announces plan:
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced that the statewide stay-at-home order will expire on April 30 and the majority of businesses in the state will be allowed to reopen.
Some businesses may be allowed to reopen even earlier.
"Our Economic Recovery Group is working with industry leaders around the clock so that some businesses can open as soon as Monday, April 27," Lee said. "These businesses will open according to specific guidance that we will provide in accordance with state and national experts in both medicine and business."
South Carolina too:
South Carolina Gov. Henty McMaster announced on Monday that furniture stores, book shops, music stores, flower shops, clothing stores, department stores, sporting goods stores, and flea markets will be allowed to reopen at 20% capacity.
Beaches in the state will reopen on Tuesday.
“Under the order, retail stores may reopen at 5 p.m. April 20, but must adhere to strict social distancing requirements, operating at 20% occupancy or five (5) customers per 1,000 square feet, whichever is less,” WYFF reported. “In addition, businesses must not knowingly allow customers to congregate within six feet of one another.”
