Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb Friday unveiled a plan that could lead to the state being fully re-opened by the 4th of July.

In his Friday virtual briefing, the Governor said because Indiana has been trending in the right direction regarding COVID-19 with respect to available hospital beds and ventilators, he was able to move forward with his proposal which would occur in the following stages…

Stage 2 (May 4 – 23)

  • Essential only travel is lifted.
  • The limit on gatherings increases from ten to 25 people (while still maintaining proper social distancing)
  • Retail and commercial outlets can re-open at 50-percent occupancy;
  • Malls may reopen at 50-percent occupancy, but only 25 percent in the building’s common area.
  • Offices may re-open, however, the state encourages working remotely.
  • Libraries may open.
  • Half the state’s BMV branches will reopen, but by appointment only.
  • Manufacturers can restart their facilities, following OSHA guidelines on COVID-19 
  • No limits on in-door church gatherings, but they are encouraged to maintain social distancing and continue to hold virtual services.
  • After one week at stage 2
    • Personal services (i.e., barbers and salons) can reopen, but by appointment only
    • Restaurants and bars that serve food can re-open at 50-percent capacity.

Due to the high concentration of COVID-19 cases, Stage 2 would not apply to Marion and Lake Counties until May 11 and Cass County until May 18. 

Stage 3 (Begins 5/24)

  • Limits on group gathering increased to 100.
  • Gyms,  fitness centers, and playgrounds may reopen with restrictions and social distancing
  • Movie Theatres (at 50-percent occupancy)

Stage 4 (Begins 6/14)

  • Limit on social gatherings increased to 250
  • Bars and nightclubs can open at 50-percent capacity.

Stage 5 (Begins 7/4)

  • All restrictions are limited.

Despite the directives, the Governor said counties still had the authority impose tighter restrictions.  In addition, he said if the state did see a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, the plan gives them enough flexibility to mitigate the situation.

You can get a more detailed look at the Governor’s proposal here.

 

Has COVID-19 interrupted your business in some way and you purchased insurance for just such a situation?  Insurance companies will do what is best for the insurance company.  We have represented clients for years in disputes with insurance companies after an improper denial of coverage.  Call John Lewis or Abdul-Hakim Shabazz at Lewis and Wilkins LLP 317-495-7100 or email lewis@lewisandwilkins.com if you want to discuss these important matters.