Based on data from scientists and health experts and after consulting with stakeholders across the state regarding COVID-19, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced that he will sign a modified version of the state's stay-at-home order that will go into effect Friday, May 1.
The order will be extended through May.
The state is projected to see a peak or plateau of deaths per day between late April and early May. However, if the stay at home order were lifted this week, a scientific model anticipates a second wave of the outbreak in Illinois starting in May that would claim tens of thousands of lives and greatly exceed the state's hospital capacity.
There will also be the following modifications beginning May 1:
—Outdoor recreation: State parks will begin a phased re-opening under guidance from the Department of Natural Resources. Fishing and boating in groups of no more than two people will be permitted. A list of parks that will be open on May 1 and additional guidelines can be found on the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website. Golf will be permitted under strict safety guidelines provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and when ensuring that social distancing is followed.
—New essential businesses: Greenhouses, garden centers and nurseries may re-open as essential businesses. These stores must follow social distancing requirements and must require that employees and customers wear a face covering. Animal grooming services may also reopen.
—Non-essential retail: Retail stores not designated as non-essential businesses and operations may reopen to fulfill telephone and online orders through pick-up outside the store and delivery.
—Face coverings: Beginning May 1, individuals will be required to wear a face covering or a mask when in a public place where they can't maintain a six-foot social distance. Face coverings will be required in public indoor spaces, such as stores. This new requirement applies to all individuals over the age of 2 who are able to medically tolerate a face covering or mask.
—Essential businesses and manufacturing: Essential businesses and manufacturers will be required to provide face-coverings to all employees who are not able to maintain six feet of social distancing, as well as follow new requirements that maximize social distancing and prioritize the well-being of employees and customers. This will include occupancy limits for essential businesses and precautions such as staggering shifts and operating only essential lines for manufacturers.
—Schools: Educational institutions may allow and establish procedures for pick-up of necessary supplies or student belongings. Dormitory move-outs must follow public-health guidelines, including social distancing.
The Illinois Department of Public Health will also be issuing guidance to surgi-centers and hospitals to allow for certain elective surgeries for non-life-threatening conditions, starting May 1. Facilities will need to meet specific criteria, including proper PPE, ensuring enough overall space for COVID-19 patients remains available, and testing of elective surgery patients to ensure COVID-19 negative status.
