Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak has released a timetable for easing restriction measures across the state. Sisolak confirmed that decision-making could move from the state government to the locals on May 1, if counties can demonstrate a reduction in COVID-19 case rates by the end of April.
Counties must also prove adequate hospital capacity and evidence that they can proceed with a satisfactory level of testing. The smoothing of the rules begins on Monday, with the meetings being able to increase from 50 to 100 people or 35% of the capacity in establishments, whichever is less.
Bars and restaurants, in turn, will not require more reservations, with up to six people being able to sit at a table. The standards will be further relaxed on March 15, with a maximum limit of 250 people or 50% of capacity. Sisolak emphasized, however, that the state will continue to demand certain care.
“Even when we move to local management, specific state protocols will remain in place to mitigate the spread, including, but not limited to, the use of masks and social distancing requirements.”
Sisolak added: “While we hope that the case trend will continue to decline if all mitigation measures are followed, we must remain flexible – as we have always done.”
The Nevada governor further commented that “we will continue to monitor data throughout this timeline and work closely with counties and local health officials to assess next steps should a significant increase begin to occur.”
Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nevada
According to information from Nevada health agencies, the state recorded 286,000 positive cases of the disease with 4640 deaths. The betting, hospitality, tourism and events sectors were affected by travel containment measures, temporary closings and a decrease in maximum service capacity.
