The state of Kentucky plans to begin stage one of reopening the state on May 11, after closing nonessential businesses and public gathering areas on March 23. 

Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Kentucky on March 6 during a live press release. Due to this single case, Gov. Beshear called for a state of emergency effective immediately.    

Within the following weeks, the state of Kentucky developed more restrictions. For example, on March 13 Gov. Beshear announced that all Kentucky K-12 schools should prepare for a closing within the next 72 hours if they weren’t already. 

In addition to school districts ultimately resorting to NTI (Non-Traditional Instruction) and the closing of many businesses and construction, places that were still open implemented safety rules.

Now in places such as the grocery store, Kentuckians are recommended to remain six feet away from all people and only allow one adult per household to enter via CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

After a full two months of the first confirmed COVID-19 case and almost two months of nonessential services closed, Kentuckians can expect the economy to reopen. 

Phase one of the reopening process will include relaunching manufacturing, constructional, professional, pet grooming and dealership services on May 11.

Beginning on May 20, retail stores, places of worship and funeral homes may reopen.

Lastly, on May 25 businesses such as barbershops and salons may reopen. 

Last night we outlined our gradual and safe reopening plan. Remember, this is dependent on us continuing the fight against #COVID19 with promising results.

Visit https://t.co/HWSahYxqTB for more information. #TogetherKy #HealthyatWork #TeamKentucky pic.twitter.com/hVz60U2PsI

— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) April 30, 2020

As places start to reopen, all employees and shoppers are required to wear masks until otherwise permitted. In addition, facilities must implement the rule of six feet social distancing and reduced capacity recommended by CDC.      

The second phase of reopening the state is set to start on May 22 with restaurant dining of 33% capacity and outdoor dining being allowed. On June 1, theaters and fitness centers will be able to open.

On June 11, campgrounds will reopen, followed by childcare and outdoor youth sports. 

Last night I announced Phase 2 of our gradual and safe plans to reopen businesses. Remember, these dates are tentative and require us to still follow the guidelines. Visit https://t.co/IJtsveXFsn for more. #HealthyatWork #TogetherKy #TeamKentucky pic.twitter.com/P8gXPIW4Uk

— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) May 8, 2020

Businesses that open within phases one and two are expected to increase their percentage of capacity once given order by Gov. Beshear. This will be based on the amount of COVID-19 cases following the reopening. 

 There have not been any set dates for in-person high school graduations, rescheduled trips or proms in the state. However, JCPS announced that all 25 high schools will have live-streamed virtual graduations for the class of 2020. 

The virtual graduations are set to begin in the last week of May and will be streamed on the JCPS Youtube channel. Additionally, they are planned to be as formal as possible and call every graduating student’s name.

Overall, the state of Kentucky plans to ease into reopening the state while taking the right precautions.

All citizens and corporations are expected to follow the restrictions implemented by the state of Kentucky and CDC guidelines. If broken, legal actions may be taken.