Today, the Baker-Polito Administration’s Reopening Advisory Board published their report outlining a 4-phase schedule for reopening the Commonwealth since the closure of non-essential businesses on March 23.  The plan is coupled with a new “Safer at Home” advisory, replacing the current “Stay at Home” advisory, to allow people to use the reopened businesses and services with stringent safety protocols in place.  Phase 1 is set to begin on May 18 allowing manufacturing, construction, places of worship, and high-priority health procedures at hospitals and community health centers to resume.  Phase 1 will expand on May 25, opening laboratory and life science facilities, offices other than those located in Boston, hair salons and barbershops, pet grooming, recreation and outdoor activities, other health care providers for high priority procedures, and remote fulfilment and curbside pickup for retail stores. On June 1, office space in Boston will reopen. Phase 2 will include retail, restaurants, lodging, and personal services such as nail salons and day spas.  Phase 3 will include bars, casinos, gyms, museums, and other business activities excluding nightclubs and large venues.  Phase 4, dubbed the “New Normal” will resume all business activities with safety protocols in place. Each phase will last at least three weeks, potentially longer based on COVID-19 data on transmission of the virus, there could be a regression in phases if transmission rates increase.

To access the Reopening Advisory Board’s report, please click here.