Task Force Recommends Reopening Of Some Alabama Businesses

MONTGOMERY, AL — Nonessential businesses in Alabama have been closed since March 28 amid the coronavisrus pandemic, but that may change based on a Friday report by Alabama's Small Business Emergency Task Force. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth said the task force worked with experts and consulted with a number of business owners to find ways to reopen businesses in a safe manner while limiting potential for COVID-19 transmission.

Ainsworth made the following recommendations for small businesses in Alabama:

• Restaurants could immediately resume offering dine-in service using new safety measures
• A number of small shops and retailers could reopen immediately
• Child care centers could reopen immediately.
• Barber shops, salons and similar service businesses can immediately reopen if they follow recommended protocols.
• The task force did not recommend the reopening of movie theaters, concert venues and other businesses that focus on large gatherings.

All recommendations include additional safety measures, such as reduced capacities for many establishments or social distancing measures.

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The task force also recommended some businesses and industries could reopen in May with proper social distancing guidelines and safety protocols. That includes facets of the health care, dental and medical sectors, which have been greatly affected by closures and health orders. Gyms and fitness centers are also recommended for May 1 re-openings.

Racetracks, casinos and bingo halls are also recommended for reopening on May 1.

The decision to act on the task force recommendations would ultimately be up to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, with input from Alabama state health officer Scott Harris and others.

Researchers have said the number of coronavirus patients hospitalized in Alabama will reach its peak April 20.

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