INDIANAPOLIS — The state will advance to Stage 5 of its reopening plan starting Saturday, but a statewide mask requirement will remain in place for now, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 23.
Under Stage 5, many of the remaining restrictions on gatherings will be removed. Holcomb said at his weekly news briefing that the state has made progress in thwarting the spread of the novel coronavirus. Here are some key facets of Stage 5:
–Face coverings still required. The mask mandate, first put in place in July, had been set to end after Saturday.
–Maintain social distancing, wash your hands, and do not go to work or school or in public places if you feel sick.
–Size limitations removed for social gatherings and meetings. Organizers of events that will include more than 500 people must submit a written plan to the local health department.
–Restaurants and bars that offer food service may open at full capacity. Appropriate social distancing must be maintained between tables. Bar section customers must be seated.
–Bars and nightclubs may open at full capacity. Customers must be seated; social distancing required.
–Indoor and outdoor venues may open at full capacity.
–Senior centers and congregate nutrition sites may reopen according to Indiana Family and Social Services Administration guidelines.
–Personal services, gyms, fitness centers and workout facilities may resume normal operations.
–Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are required to provide visitation opportunities.
Some information in this story came from reporting by WISH-TV (Channel 8), the Daily Reporter’s newsgathering partner. The Daily Reporter’s Mitchell Kirk and Jessica Karins are reporting on this story. It will be updated.
