We’ve all been waiting for that moment.. the moment we can can step back into a cantina and feast on tacos and margaritas.  Much debate surrounds the reopening of America, so here’s what you need to know:

Phasing Process

President Trump and the CDC have issued guidance on how states are to reopen and the conditions under which they can do so.

First, states must show a slowing rate of reported Influenza and COVID symptoms and documented cases. In addition, states must have a strategic and robust plan to treat patients, healthcare workers, and provide antibody testing.

Robust plans include adequate and accessible screening mechanisms, tracing contacts within positive cases and surveillance of high-risk and/or minority populations (elderly, chronically ill, etc.).  Sufficient medical supplies must be available to healthcare workers, such as PPE, and the ability to expand ICU capacity should positive cases accelerate.

In addition, states must have adequate protocols with local businesses and education programs in place to ensure successful social distancing.  Use of safety masks in public remains at the state’s discretion, but is highly encouraged.

Phase 1

Continue social distancing, with high-risk populations and those who work with high-risk populations remaining at home or sheltering in place.  Avoid gatherings of 10 or more people.  Minimize non-essential travel wherever possible.  Businesses are to continue telework programs, and phase workers back into the workplace if appropriate.  Unfortunately, certain businesses shall remain closed, while others must adhere to stringent guidelines:

Closed:

• Bars

• Schools/Daycares

• Large Venues

Open with Restrictions:

• Gyms

• Elective Surgeries

Phase 2

Should states not experience any rebound in reported cases, they are eligible to move to Phase 2.  Gatherings can expand up to 50 people and people can resume non-essential travel, while both are still unadvised.  Businesses should continue to offer telework opportunities and restrict any common areas where gatherings may take place.  High-risk populations and those who work with them should continue to stay at home or shelter in place.

Schools and bars can begin to reopen, but restrictions on the size and duration of gatherings should be controlled.

Phase 3

Finally, if states are able to make it through Phase 2 without any rebound in cases, they can move to Phase 3.  While social distancing protocols and heightened sanitation procedures remain in force, all businesses are eligible to reopen and staff can return to work.  High-risk populations may reenter the public settings, but are encouraged to limit their exposure and minimize the time spent in public gatherings.  Gatherings may expand to 100 people and large venues, such as concert halls, churches and other facilities may reopen with physical distancing protocols in place.

If at any time an expansion of reported cases occurs, states must pull back to an earlier phase.

Reopening Tennessee

Each city has different underlying conditions, and thus different plans for reopening.  At this time, Nashville will follow the CDC’s guidelines in four phases, each lasting a minimum of 14 days.

Phase 1

Retail and other commercial businesses may reopen at half capacity, with safety measures in place, such as screening workers, strict hygiene requirements and use of face masks.

Bars and restaurants serving food may reopen at half capacity, with safety measures in place, such as screening workers, strict hygiene requirements and use of face masks.  Bar areas are to remain closed and live music/entertainment prohibited.  Food and condiment stations are to be inaccessible to patrons.

Phase 2

Retail, restaurants and other commercial businesses may open up to ¾ capacity, with safety measures in place, such as screening workers, strict hygiene requirements and use of face masks.

Elective surgeries and outpatient settings may recommence with adequate screening and sanitation procedures.

Gatherings may expand to 50 people, with public parks reopening.

Phase 3

Retail, restaurants and other commercial businesses may open up to full capacity, with safety measures in place, such as screening workers, strict hygiene requirements and use of face masks.  Bars are to stay at ½ capacity, with no standing at the bar.  Live music can resume, but public food stations will remain prohibited.  Take-out alcohol sales will remain to limit gatherings in these places.

Gyms and fitness centers may reopen with strict hygiene and sanitation policies in place.

Gatherings may increase to 100 people with physical distancing still in force.

Phase 4

All businesses may reopen, including large venues of greater than 100 people.  Physical distancing will remain in force and screening procedures and safety measures from previous phases intact for all employees.