Oregon Opens 28 Counties, All Retail from COVID-19 Lockdown

Oregon Governor Kate Brown unlocked 28 of 33 counties that applied to reopen because they were deemed ready to begin Phase One opening starting today. Qualifying counties demonstrated that they met all of Oregon’s safety and preparedness prerequisites for reopening, as well as a declining prevalence of COVID-19.

Gov. Brown says, “In each of these counties we will continue to monitor testing rates, effectiveness at contract tracing and isolation of new cases, hospitalization rates and other metrics that are required to remain open in Phase One.”

The counties opening today essentially include all those outside the Portland Metro area. The state’s three large Portland Metro-area counties, Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas, did not apply to reopen on May 15, and are expected to apply in the coming weeks.

Additionally, all retail statewide can open today too, except for shopping centers and malls in counties not entering Phase One reopening status. Those that open must maintain social distancing and follow other safety measures for employees and customers.

In counties not entering Phase One the following new guidelines take effect or remain in effect beginning May 15:

• Grocery stores, pharmacies, banks and credit unions, and gas stations are all open.
• Restaurants are open for take-out service only.
• Stand-alone retail operations are open provided they meet required safety and physical distancing guidelines.
• Indoor and outdoor malls are closed.
• Local outdoor recreation activities are open, including many state parks.
• Non-emergency medical care, dentist offices and veterinary care are open and operating, provided they meet required safety guidelines.
• Local cultural, civic and faith gatherings are allowed for up to 25 people provided physical distancing can be in place.
• Local social gatherings over 10 people are prohibited and those under 10 people must use physical distancing.
• Personal care services such as salons and barbers, as well as gyms, are closed.
• Childcare is open under certain restrictions, with priority placements for children of healthcare workers, first responders, and frontline workers.
• Summer camp and summer school program guidelines are forthcoming.

In counties approved for Phase One reopening, the following additional areas can operate if they comply with sector-specific health and safety guidance beginning May 15:

• Restaurants, bars, and other such establishments for dine-in service until 10 pm
• Personal services businesses
• All retail businesses, including malls and shopping centers
• Gyms and other fitness facilities
• Local gatherings of up to 25 people

For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Dennis Kaiser