Gov. Kim Reynolds today said the state is “shifting strategies” and entering a new phase in the pandemic, which includes lifting some closure orders on businesses in Muscatine County.
Starting tomorrow, Friday, May 8, businesses that may reopen include fitness centers (by appointment only); malls; bookstores; clothing stores; shoe stores; jewelry stores; luggage stores; cosmetic, beauty and perfume stores; florists; furniture and home furnishing stores; tobacco, cigarette, cigar and vaping stores; and toy, gaming, music, instrument, movie and adult entertainment stores.
In addition, campgrounds, drive-in movie theaters, tanning facilities and medical spas may reopen May 8 throughout the state.
“You know, Iowans can be proud of what we’re doing. You should be proud of what we’re doing,” Reynolds told reporters at a news conference. “We are leading and we’re leading by example and we’re doing to continue to lead.”
Early efforts were aimed at preserving protective equipment and ensuring hospitals had the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients, according to Reynolds. Reynolds said the state now has more testing capacity and 150 Iowa National Guard soldiers joining local efforts to tracking down people who may have been exposed to the virus. With “hot spots” around the state identified, Reynolds said she’s making prudent decisions about lifting closure orders and allowing businesses to reopen, at limited capacity.
“We can’t keep businesses closed indefinitely,” Reynolds said.
— Radio Iowa contributed to this story
