Governor's Phase 3 release

Subject: Governor's Release about Phase 3 - May 29th

Below is a release from Governor Pritzker this afternoon which gives promising news for Phase 3 next week (May 29th).  Chairman Kern and Director Simmons asked that the below message be shared and it is because of your persistence and assistance that exceptions like the below are being considered and added:

“The experts have indicated we can build on our plan to bring back more activities faster, as long as Illinoisans continue to do as we have, adhering to precautions & safety measures to keep each other safe.

The epidemiologists now believe that summer offers us an opportunity. 

After working with restaurant industry representatives, I'm pleased to announce that restaurants can open for outdoor seating when Phase 3 begins, likely for everyone just 9 days from now.

With the right restrictions – tables six feet apart and away from sidewalks, masks and distancing measures for staff, and other precautions – the experts believe these services can open at a risk comparable to other outdoor activities and give businesses a much-needed boost.

Phase 3 also permits all gatherings – not just essential ones – of 10 people or fewer. That means if you want to go enjoy a picnic in the park or a walk with 9 other people, you can – just remember to wear a mask or a face covering when social distance can’t be maintained.

Newly allowed in Phase 3: 

Boating or camping with up to ten people is welcome. 

Indoor & outdoor tennis facilities with IDPH safety precautions & capacity limits. 

Golf courses can allow foursomes out on the same tee times. 

All state parks can reopen with staffing and safety measures.

As we've already laid out: Personal care services, one-on-one personal training in indoor facilities and outdoor fitness classes of up to ten people can take place with safety precautions.

All retail stores – basically any store that wasn’t already open as an essential business – can choose to open their doors to in-person shopping with IDPH safety precautions and capacity limits in place.

In the coming days, we’ll be releasing formal industry-specific guidance developed in consultation with business owners and employees, particularly around workplaces and child care.

I want to offer just a note of concern that I hope everyone will take to heart: 

The virus has not gone away. 

We have followed the science and we’re succeeding, but we can’t let up now.

We’ve come too far and made so much progress because we’ve kept social distance, worn face coverings in public, washed our hands frequently, and taken care of our most vulnerable to the best of our ability. 

We must persevere.”

Thank you,