Ivey issued ‘Safer at Home’ order

Gov. Kay Ivey has just announced plans for a gradual reopening of portions of the state’s economy, with some continued restrictions. A new ‘Safer-at-Home’ order will go into effect as of Thursday at 5:30 p.m. when the current Stay-at-Home is set to expire.

According to the new order, which was released during an 11 a.m. press conference today, retail businesses will be allowed to reopen with restrictions of no more than 50% capacity, maintaining a distance of 6 feet apart.

Restaurants and bars are still limited to curbside and drive-through service only.

‘Close contact’ businesses, such a hair salons and barber shops, are to remain closed for now. Gyms, fitness centers, and entertain venues like theaters are also not yet allowed to reopen.

Medical procedures will be allowed to resume, following rules and guidelines from state regulatory boards, and unless medical resources need to be preserved to fight COVID-19.

Beaches will be reopened with restrictions of no more than 10 persons gathering together and using the 6-feet social distancing rule.

As with the previous order, non-work gatherings will still be restricted to no more than 10 individuals with distancing of 6 feet apart. Senior citizen programs will still not be allowed, and schools will remained closed.

Church services and funeral services will remain closed for in-person assemblies that include more than 10 individuals.

Residents are urged to continue to stay at home when possible and follow guidelines such as wearing masks when in public, handwashing, and using good personal hygiene.

The Choctaw County Commission is set to meet Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. to discussed plans for the possible reopening of the Choctaw County Courthouse.

Choctaw County now has 40 cases confirmed, with 136 tested. Statewide, the ADPH is reporting 6,644 cases with 75,138 tested, and 242 deaths.