Governor Baker Issues New Executive Order in
Advance of Phase 2
Release of Rules, Checklist & Guidance for Retail Reopening
Governor Charlie Baker issued a new Executive Order today outlining the businesses and activities that fall into Phases 2-4 of his reopening plan. The Order includes guidance for the retailers to review in preparation for the limited reopening of retail stores as part of Phase 2 of the
Reopening Massachusetts
plan. The Governor will review public health trend data this week before making an announcement on June 6th as to exactly when Phase 2 will begin.
Today’s release includes a preview of the mandatory safety standards, recommended best practices and a checklist for retail businesses to follow. The earliest date possible for a Phase 2 beginning is June 8th.
“Effective immediately, the Executive Order permits Phase II businesses to reopen their physical workplaces to workers only to conduct necessary preparations prior to the start of Phase II. Preparations include but are not limited to completing a COVID-19 Control Plan, implementing sector-specific protocols, and complying with Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards.”
For the Reopening Phase 2 Executive Order, click
here
.
When Phase 2 commences, the new standards will supersede and replace existing MA Department of Public Health (DPH) guidance governing grocery stores and pharmacies: “Retail Businesses that have been defined as providing Essential Services pursuant to COVID-19 Order No. 13 will be required to comply with these sector-specific safety protocols within one week of the date that Retail Businesses are authorized to open pursuant to the Governor’s Phase 2 reopening Order.”
Grocery stores and pharmacies must continue to provide dedicated hours for at risk populations. Additional highlights include:
- Limited store occupancy
- Retailers must limit occupancy to the greater of the two: 8 persons per 1000 sq. feet of accessible indoor space, or 40% of the max permitted occupancy (includes customers and employees)
- Shopping mall operators must limit occupancy to 40% at all general entrances; food courts, play areas, seating areas and arcades are to be closed
- Fitting rooms must remain closed
- Other standard requirements include face coverings, frequent cleanings, employee protocols, and more
