The Governor announced today that Arkansas will enter Phase 2 of re-opening on June 15. This re-opening will be statewide and not a regional approach as previously discussed.

Phase 2 will allow businesses such as restaurants, gyms, and salons to increase from 1/3 to 2/3 capacity providing that customers can maintain at least a 6-foot distance. It also allows employees of businesses and state agencies who were working remotely to gradually return to the office under the Department of Health guidelines.

Social distancing and wearing a mask in public settings is still strongly encouraged.

The Governor added he will be extending the declaration of emergency in Arkansas which was set to expire on June 15. It will now be extended an additional 45 days.

Due to a recent increase of cases in NWA, the health department says it will be adding additional contact tracing and testing resources to the region.

When asked about schools opening in the fall, the Governor said it is a work in progress. The Department of Education continues to work on transportation issues and building a blended plan for classroom and online instruction.

2020 Covid-19_infographic_2020-06-10.pdf