New DHMs loosen restrictions on some businesses, activities
Governor Ricketts announced new directed health measures beginning on Monday, May 4 that will allow restaurants, dentists and more to begin opening up again.
He emphasized that social distancing is still necessary and Nebraskans need to remain on guard to protect themselves. This means no non-essential errands, no social gatherings and respecting the 10-person limit.
Restaurant dining rooms will be allowed to open again beginning May 4 under strict rules. They are able to open at 50% their dining room capacity, and tables must be six feet apart with no more than six people to a table. No bar seating is allowed, and alcohol can only be served alongside a meal. Servers are to wear masks and it is encouraged for customers to go cashless.
Dentist offices are also able to open with certain precautions, such as enhanced patient screening, elevated personal protective equipment (PPE), higher levels of infection control and limits on certain procedures. Patients are to have their temperature taken upon entering and will go through a number of questions to determine safety.
Elective surgeries at hospitals will also be allowed so long as they maintain 30% general bed availability, 30% ICU bed availability, 30% ventilator availability and they must have a two-week supply of necessary PPE in their facility.
Some gym clubs are able to resume activity, such as children’s gymnastics, so long as they maintain the 10-person limit. Sports clubs must refrain from operating until at least May 31.
Religious services, prayer gatherings, weddings and funerals are able to resume so long as households are separated by six feet and nothing is passed among attendees.
Barbershops, salons, tattoo parlors and massage therapists are allowed to open so long as both employees and customers are wearing masks.
The Southwest Nebraska Public Health District is included in the loosened health measures, but some public health districts and counties will remain under tighter restrictions.