ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Gov. Larry Hogan announced that Maryland will enter Stage 2 of reopening on Friday.
Effective on Friday, June 5, at 5pm Maryland will be lifting the order requiring the closure of non-essential businesses.
Since announcing Stage One, the state has continued to see downward trends. Statewide positivity rate has dropped to 9.5 percent and hospitalizations are at its lowest level in 50 days. ICU beds are also at its lowest level since April 17.
“All of these metrics allow us to now safely begin Stage Two of our Roadmap to Recovery and take more steps that are critical for getting our economy back on track, and to getting Marylanders back to work," said Hogan.
Nail salons, tanning salons, massage/tattoo parlors may reopen at 50% capacity, by appointment only, and with strict safety protocols.
Stage 2 does not include the reopening of bars/restaurants for indoor dining. Gyms/fitness centers must also remain closed.
Starting Monday, June 8, state government will also begin returning to more normal operations. MVA and other customer-facing agencies will begin phased reopening.
Hogan stated that if they continue to see encouraging trends, the next step is, likely coinciding with end of the school year, will be to consider reopening some additional outdoor amusement, fitness, sporting, and other summertime activities.
As with Stage One, Stage Two will be based on a flexible, community-based approach, with local jurisdictions making decisions regarding the timing of reopenings. All 24 jurisdictions are now in Stage One.
Hogan continues to caution Marylanders to remain vigilant, stay home as much as possible, continue to telework whenever possible, continue practicing physical distancing, and avoid crowds or large gatherings.
Hogan also addressed the election process for the primary election in Maryland on Tuesday.
In response to “significant failures,” Gov. Hogan is calling on the State Board of Elections to prepare a full report by July 3.
He requests that the General Assembly begin oversight hearings into what went wrong.
Hogan also addressed the murder of George Floyd and the protest taking place in Baltimore.
He stated this “has served as yet another reminder that we still have a long way to go to live up to our nation’s highest ideals" and said he's "incredibly proud that during this difficult time, the people of Baltimore City have set an example for the rest of America.”
