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Gov. Ducey: Arizona's stay-at-home order will still be lifted Friday

Posted at 12:57 PM, May 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-15 07:48:33-04

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says pools and gyms can begin reopening in our state starting on Wednesday and his stay-at-home order will still be lifted on Friday.

Phased reopening for certain businesses, including salons, barbershops, and dine-in for restaurants, began last Friday and has continued into this week.

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In Tuesday's briefing, Ducey announced that the stay-at-home order in Arizona will be ending on May 15 and will be replaced by new guidance for the next stage of economic recovery.

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The governor says the new guidance aligns with criteria issued by the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and aims to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 resurgence in our state.

In addition, Ducey announced pools and spas, with physical distancing and enhanced sanitation, can reopen Wednesday, May 13. Gyms and fitness providers, with similar requirements, can also reopen on Wednesday.

In addition, while never formally closed, many places of worship opted to temporarily change or suspend services in order to follow physical distancing guidelines. As they resume operations, ADHS issued additional guidelines for enhanced physical distancing and safety precautions.

Ducey announced all major league sports can open after May 15 and all professional teams are welcome, though fans will not be present.

In addition, movie theaters will be allowed to open Saturday. Bars will remain closed for the time being, with guidance expected in the near future, according to the governor's office.

The state also announced it will now start testing all residents and staff in 147 nursing homes around the state. In the Valley, 70 percent of all COVID-19 deaths are residents of long-term care facilities.