With 15% of the state’s workforce – or over 400,000 people – having filed for unemployment and $870 million in revenue lost during the month of March, Gov. Bill Lee will lift COVID-19 prevention restrictions on churches, gyms and other industries next week.
After noting that state officials project a $5 billion loss in gross domestic product for Tennessee in 2020, due to the economic impact of the virus, Lee said at a news conference on Friday that he will spell out plans for reopening certain medical offices, athletic facilities and churches across most of the state next week.
“I tasked the unified command group and Tennessee’s economic recovery group – with input from health experts, state and local partners in business and industry leaders – to build what we are calling the Tennessee Pledge,” Lee said. “It includes specific recommendations which enable most businesses to reopen responsibly without the burden of heavy mandates.”
After announcing Thursday that restaurants and stores will be allowed to reopen in 89 of the state’s 95 counties early next week, the governor also recommended Friday that restaurants take precautions like keeping tables 6 feet apart, keeping bar areas closed and preventing live music.
While Hamilton County is not required to follow Lee’s plans, Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger told the Times Free Press late Friday that he will stay in step with the governor, allowing local restaurants and retail to open under the same stipulations.