COVID-19 State Updates for Hair Salons | AHP

Alabama

December 11: On December 9, 2020, State Health Officer Scott Harris extended the Safer at Home order effective through January 22, 2021. This extends the statewide mask mandate. Close-contact service providers must continue to follow the rules on page 5 of the linked document. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2020/12/Safer-at-Home-Order-Final-12.9.2020.pdf

November 18: The Department of Public Health issued an amended order November 5, 2020, with updated guidelines for close-contact service providers, including barbershops, hair salons, waxing and threading salons, nail salons and spas, and massage therapy establishments. The new guidelines are effective November 8, 2020, through December 11, 2020, and can be found on page 5 of the linked document. Gloves are now required for individuals providing facials or nail services. All close-contact service providers are required to wear face masks as well. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2020/11/Safer-at-Home-Order-Final-11.4.2020.pdf

October 16: Governor Ivey extended the "Safer at Home" health order through November 8, 2020, to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Alabama. Page 8 outlines safety guidelines for close-contact service providers. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2020/09/2020-09-30-18th-Supplemental-SOE-COVID-19-1.pdf

July 16: Governor Ivey issued her fourteenth supplemental emergency proclamation, containing an amended Safer at Home Order that includes a statewide mask requirement. Individuals are now required to wear a mask or face covering when in public. The amended order remains in effect through July 31, 2020.

May 15: Governor Kay Ivey on issued an amended Safer at Home Order, expanding the list of businesses permitted to reopen. Close-contact service providers including barbershops, hair salons, waxing and threading salons, nail salons and spas, and and massage therapy establishments and services may reopen May 11, 2020, but must comply with the rules in the linked document on p. 3. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2020/05/Safer-at-Home-Order-FINAL-5.8.2020.pdf

May 4: Governor Ivey announced a Safer At Home Executive Order, marking the beginning of a gradual process to reopen to state. Close contact services (barber shops, hair salons, waxing salons, threading salons, nail salons and spas, and massage therapy establishments and services) remain closed until May 15, 2020. A decision will be made to either extend or relax the order. https://governor.alabama.gov/assets/2020/04/Safer-At-Home-Order-Signed-4.28.20.pdf

March 27: As a result of the COVID-19 interruptions of study, the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB) will accept course work for distance-learning programs beginning March 16, 2020, through April 13, 2020, for clock hour courses for theory instruction that lead to licensure with ABOCB. Effective at the close of business on March 19, 2020, all written and practical exam testing sites will be closed until April 13, 2020. PSI is allowing candidates to reschedule exams at no additional charge. Please contact PSI at 833-333-4751 or 800-733-9267 to reschedule your exam. https://aboc.alabama.gov/frequently-asked-questions/

March 19: The Jefferson County Department of Health on Thursday ordered the closing of all non-essential businesses and services due to the risk of infection by COVID-19 (https://www.wvtm13.com/article/coronavirus-latest-news-updates-and-impacts-in-central-alabama/31446979). Non-essential services include:

• Entertainment, including night clubs, bowling alleys, arcades, racetracks, indoor children’s play places, pool halls, adult gaming and entertainment venues
• Recreation facilities, including gyms and fitness centers, swimming pools and spas, excluding licensed physical therapy services
• Nail salons and spas
• Concert venues and auditoriums, theaters
• Tourist attractions (including museums, planetariums, parades)
• Body art facilities and tattoo services
• Tanning salons
• Massage businesses
• Waxing salons/threading salons
• Museums and galleries
• Performing arts centers/events/rehearsals
• Social clubs, casinos
• Proms, formals, and other similar events 

Alaska

July 27: Alaska strongly encourages wearing masks in public, but has not mandated it statewide. However, some communities require masks in public settings. Please check with your local government if you are unsure: https://covid19.alaska.gov/local-borough-resources/. http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/Pages/COVID-19/coveryourface.aspx

April 22: Governor Dunleavy issued Health Mandate 016, providing guidance for the phased reopening of the state of Alaska and establishes conditions for Phase I. Per the Mandate, hair salons and hairdressers, day spas and estheticians, nail salons and manicurists, and barbershops and barbers fall under "personal care services" that may reopen. Phase I offers strict reopening guidelines for personal care service providers who may resume practice as of April 24, 2020, if they meet the following requirements. https://gov.alaska.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/0425-COVID-MANDATE-016-Attachment-G-Personal-Care-Services.pdf

March 27: Hairdressers, barbers, estheticians, manicurists, instructors, apprentices, and students: please be aware that 25% of theory training may be done in a distance education setting. Please refer to your specific curriculum for more information. https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/Portals/5/pub/BAH_COVIDLetter03_2020.pdf

• The April 6 written examinations scheduled for Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau have been canceled. Candidates that have been scheduled for their written examination on April 6, 2020, will be rescheduled to test on May 18, 2020. These candidates will be notified in writing of their examination date change. https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardofBarbersHairdressers.aspx

March 26: The Governor has ordered all massage therapy locations, day spas, Rolfing, reiki, acupuncture, acupressure, and similar services closed. https://gov.alaska.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/03232020-SOA-COVID-19-Health-Mandate-009.pdf

Arkansas

January 19: Governor Asa Hutchinson extended the statewide mask mandate through February 28, 2021. There remains an exemption for those performing job duties where a six-foot distance is not possible but a mask is "inhibatory to the ability to safely" perform the service. https://governor.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/executiveOrders/EO_20-53.pdf

January 5: Governor Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-53 that renews the emergency order for 60 days beginning December 29, 2020. https://governor.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/executiveOrders/EO_20-53.pdf

June 16: Governor Asa Hutchinson announced a statewide mask mandate beginning Monday, July 20. There is an exemption for those performing job duties where a six-foot distance is not possible but a mask is "inhibatory to the ability to safely" perform the service. So, it appears facials may still be allowed. Masks are required for both indoor and outdoor situations where six feet of distance cannot be guaranteed.

June 15: Updated guidelines for cosmetology and massage establishments were issued.

May 14: Governor Asa Hutchinson announced that businesses offering barbering, cosmetology, medical spa, and massage therapy services may reopen May 6, 2020, as long as owners follow specific guidelines. https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/FinalCosmetology-UPDATED-05220.pdf

April 21: Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued Executive Order No. 20-24 on April 14, 2020, extending the statewide stay at home order through May 3, 2020. https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/EO-20-24-Executed.pdf

March 26: At this time the Governor has mandated closure of cosmetology establishments and massage therapy clinics. Establishments and clinics should close by 12:00 p.m. March 25, 2020. During the public health emergency, all approved continuing education courses, whether approved for hands-on or online, can be administered online. All required 18 hours of continuing education can be obtained through online courses. Until the public health emergency is lifted, one of the following guidelines can be used for license renewals: Renewals can be mailed in without the required 18 hours of continuing education; however, the hours should be submitted within 90 days after the conclusion of the public health emergency. Renewals can be deferred for 90 days past expiration without late fee penalties after the conclusion of the public health emergency.https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/massage-therapy

Arizona

May 14: Governor Ducey signed Executive Order 2020-36 allowing all businesses, including massage therapy to open as of May 16 at 12:00 am. Businesses are required to establish policies based on CDC, DOL, OSHA, and ADHS protocols that include intensifying cleaning, disinfection, and ventilation practices; monitoring for sickness; physical distancing; PPE; and no more than 10 people congregating in an area.

May 8: Governor Ducey signed Executive Order 2020-34 on May 8, 2020, which allows barbers and cosmetologists to return to practice, providing they developed protocols that include face coverings for practitioners/employees/clients and do not allow walk-in appointments. Guidance can also be found on the Arizona Board of Cosmetology web page. https://azgovernor.gov/sites/default/files/eo_2020-34_salons_dine_in.pdf

April 3: Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed Executive Order 2020-18 on March 30, 2020. The "Stay home, Stay healthy, Stay connected" order begins March 31, 2020 until April 30, 2020. Businesses and entities that remain open shall implement rules and procedures that facilitate physical distancing and spacing of individuals of at least six feet. Non-essential businesses may continue to operate activities that do not require in-person, on-site transactions. https://azgovernor.gov/sites/default/files/eo_2020-18_stay_home_stay_healthy_stay_connected_1.0.pdf

March 27: Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed Executive Order 2020-17 on March 26, 2020. The order states: "A state agency or board that licenses individuals or entities as indicated herein shall: a) defer requirements to renew licenses that have an expiration date between March 1, 2020, and September 1, 2020, by six months from the expiration date, unless those requirements can be completed online; b) Defer requirements to complete continuing education by six months, unless those requirements can be completed online or due to the nature of the license is not practical; c) suspend any rules that prevent or limit the amount of online or alternative learning hours permitted to issue or renew a license; d) make every attempt to implement electronic or remote format examinations for licensure where feasible; any fees required to be collected by the state agency or board may be waived." This order applies to the following boards: the Board of Barbers, the Board of Cosmetology, and the Board of Massage Therapy. PDF Download

March 25: Governor Doug Ducey today issued an executive order clarifying businesses and operations deemed “essential” by the state and providing certainty to business owners, employees, and families. The order is a proactive and administrative measure to ensure consistent guidance across the state. It does not appear to include cosmetology or massage therapy services in the list of essential services; please reference link for complete list.https://azbigmedia.com/business/ducey-issues-pair-of-covid-19-executive-orders/

California

July 29: Many California county public health departments, such as Los Angeles, are reissuing mask mandates even for those who are fully vaccinated. Check with your county public health department for current guidelines. There is no statewide mandate as of this post; however, health officials are reviewing federal guidance that would require residents who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to resume wearing masks in indoor public settings in regions with elevated levels of coronavirus transmission.

June 15: The California Department of Public Health released updated guidance for face coverings. Effective June 15, 2021, masks are no longer required for fully vaccinated individuals, except in the following settings where masks are required for everyone, regardless of vaccination status: on public transit; inside schools, childcare, or other youth settings; healthcare settings; correctional and detention centers; and homeless and emergency shelters. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/guidance-for-face-coverings.aspx#June15guidance

June 7: The California Department of Public Health announced that all sectors listed in the current Blueprint Activities and Business Tiers Chart may return to usual operations June 15, 2021. This includes all personal care services. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Beyond-Blueprint-Framework.aspx

January 27: California's Regional Stay at Home Order ended January 25, 2021. County restrictions will return to their appropriate tier under the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. You can find out what restrictions your county has placed on activities at the following link: https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR21-030.aspx

December 10: The Sacramento region reached less than 15% ICU bed capacity and will be under shutdown orders beginning at 11:59 p.m. on December 10, 2020. The shutdown will last for three weeks. https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/#regional-stay-home-order

December 7: Governor Newsom and the California legislature announced an assistance package for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The program is still being developed, but one can sign up here for more information. https://business.ca.gov/osba-signup/?fbclid=IwAR34gl32hXkaMIUCeUwDxRYTgmPnj6uL2owxLx0hcOw5LjG8jsXJvKt9bXY

California's regional shutdowns for counties with less than 15% remaining capacity of ICU beds applies to the San Joaquin area (Calaveras, Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Benito, San Joaqin, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne counties) and Southern California (Imperial, Inyo, Los Angeles, Mono, Riverside, San Bernadino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties). The stay at home orders in these regions go into effect Saturday, December 5 most likely at midnight. Personal Care Services, including massage, esthetics/skin care, and hair and nail professionals are to close during this shut down, which will last at least three weeks. https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/#regional-stay-home-order

December 4: Bay Area Public Health has proactively shut down counties in the Bay Area. The stay at home order closes personal care services (including massage therapy, esthetician and skin care services, and hair and nail services) and goes into effect in Santa Clara and Contra Costa Counties the evening of Sunday, December 6. The order goes into effect 12:01 a.m. on Monday, December 7 for San Francisco, Berkeley, and Alameda Counties, and into effect for Marin County on Tuesday, December 8 at noon. https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/12/04/coronavirus-covid-live-updates-us/?wpmk=1&wpisrc=al_news__alert-hse--alert-national 

December 3: Governor Newsom issued new stay at home orders that divide the state into five regions. Once a region gets to 15% or below its ICU bed capacity, the region will shut down for at least 3 weeks, through at least the week of December 21 through 25. Under the new 15% ICU bed capacity restrictions, all personal care services in a region would be closed, including massage therapy, esthetics, nails, and hair services. https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/#regional

San Francisco has been moved into the Purple Tier due to an aggressive surge in COVID-19 cases. Beginning November 30, 2020, a Limited Stay Home Order requires all gatherings with members from other households to stop between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. This order will be in effect through December 21, 2020. https://sf.gov/news/sf-assigned-states-purple-tier-will-roll-back-many-non-essential-activities

December 1: The Los Angeles Department of Public Health modified its Reopening Protocol for Personal Care Establishments, allowing esthetician, skin care and cosmetology services, (non-healthcare) massage therapy, nail salons, hair salons, and barbershops to operate indoors at 20% occupancy. This order is effective November 30, 2020, through December 20, 2020. http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protocols/Reopening_PersonalCare.pdf

The California Department of Public Health issued a Limited Stay at Home Order. As of November 21, 2020, it is required that all non-essential work, activities, and gatherings with members from other households stop between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. in counties in the widespread purple tier. The order will remain in effect until December 21, 2020. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/limited-stay-at-home-order.aspx

September 8: California tiered phases update: Amador, Orange, Placer, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz counties move to the red tier, which signifies a "substantial" risk level. Under the red (substantial risk) tier, "Some non-essential indoor business operations are closed"; however, depending on county guidelines, massage therapists and estheticians may be allowed to return to work indoors under certain conditions. Use the activity status search tool at https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/ for the status of activities in your county. Please also check with your county Department of Public Health for any additional requirements or restrictions. 

September 1: Governor Newsom announced a new COVID-19 website and new tiered phases. To learn in what capacity your county is open, visit covid.19.gov, scroll down to “People want to know” and click on “What’s open in my county?” https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy

July 20: Updated guidelines for hair salons providing services outdoors were issued. The guidelines address working outside, the need for ventilation in tents, and wiring. The California Department of Consumer Affairs and the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology also issued their own guidelines, which prohibit shampooing and chemical services for hair. Updated personal care services guidelines were issued. They address working outside, the need for ventilation in tents, sunscreen, and tripping and other safety hazards caused by outside wiring. Under these guidelines, facials are still allowed with a face shield and face mask.

July 13: Thirty counties are closed to all inside businesses as of July 13, 2020. This includes all business classified under Personal Service Guidelines, which includes massage therapists, estheticians, cosmetologists, and nail professionals. https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap-counties/

July 10: The California Department of Public Health issued new guidelines for Personal Care Services on July 2, 2020, for massage therapists, estheticians, cosmetologists, and nail professionals. Major changes in the new guidelines include that masks are to be worn at all times (facials and beard trims are now allowed with the practitioner wearing a face mask and face shield); amended language regarding linen receptacles; and the removal of language regarding wax pot emptying. https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/expanded-personal-services--en.pdf?fbclid=IwAR35DwiTK-K_D-33kXsjbS661iXgN_04_RnpzoGPpuhoJ6oOr28t36A4G5c

June 18: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has identified a number of counties experiencing an increase of COVID-19 cases. "Targeted Engagement with CDPH" is essentially CDPH working with county health departments to bring COVID-19 cases down in that county, and counties on the Targeted Engagement list are most likely not opening in Phase Three on June 19. Check with your county health department to determine whether you are allowed to return to practice. Counties on the Targeted Engagement list as of June 18, 2020, include Contra Costa, Fresno, Imperial, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Juaquin, Santa Barbara, Stanislaus, and Tulare counties. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/CountyMonitoringDataStep2.aspx. Governor Newsom issued a mandate for everyone to wear face masks when interacting with others, even outside. "Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service" are exempted. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/Guidance-for-Face-Coverings_06-18-2020.pdf

June 16: On June 15, 2020, Governor Jared Polis released Safer at Home: New Guidelines, which, among other allowed activities, expands permitted personal care services. Facials, shaves, beard trimming, and lip waxing services are allowed effective June 18, 2020. Clients may remove their face coverings for these services. We expect the guidelines for personal services to be updated before June 18, 2020, and we have contacted upper management at DORA for clarification. Please watch for updates to the current Personal Services Guidelines issued later than the June 11, 2020 update.

June 14: California issued Personal Care Guidelines at https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/expanded-personal-services.pdf. Specific opening dates will be determined by counties, and will be no sooner than June 19.

June 11: California is currently in Stage 2 of the Resilience Roadmap, which permits limited personal services to reopen. Per the state's COVID-19 industry guidance (https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-hair-salons.pdf)

• Massage: Massage therapy may be permitted, depending on your county or city (per a May 28 CAMTC email)
• Nails and esthetics: Manicures and some esthetics (facials, lash, or brow work—anything to do with the face) are not permitted. Waxing and sugaring hair-removal services below the neck can be performed.
• Cosmetology: Any hair or wig dressing, haircutting, relaxing, or coloring can be performed. Everyone, including stylists and clients, must wear a mask. No beard trims or shaves are permitted

May 7: California's Update on the RoadMap Forward indicates that Personal Services will be open in Stage 3. Counties will also be able to work with the state to reopen sooner. More information should be available in the coming week. Read the update here.

May 6: Reports from May 4 indicate the state may be moving toward county by county regulation. As of May 5, the state closure of massage therapy, esthetics, and cosmetology still applies indefinitely until a new order is issued. It does appear that we should know more about county regulations and the Phase 2 opening by May 8. https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/05/04/governor-newsom-provides-update-on-californias-progress-toward-stage-2-reopening/

March 19: The California State Public Health Officer and Director of the California Department of Public Health is ordering all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence, except as needed to maintain continuity of operation of the federal critical infrastructure sectors, critical government services, schools, childcare, and construction, including housing construction. https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/

Colorado

September 8: Legislative update from AHP: Boulder County Requires Masks in Indoor Public Settings

June 7: The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment issued an amended public health order lifting the mask mandate for those that are fully vaccinated. Businesses may still require masks. View a summary of the modifications to the mask mandate here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UtY96lJMhvvsL7s-dSiW0fG2dsMp1qVB/view. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fIYXM08Ck2zHPSxhHusybGfwJ_f8ROjR/view

December 10: On December 7, 2020, Governor Polis issued Executive Order D 2020 276, which extends the statewide mask mandate through January 7, 2021. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WutHQnLhBReYTh1qu9o0m3NYLq0b-v5Q/view

December 7: The Colorado legislature passed a number of COVID-related bills in a special session that ended December 2, 2020. Included in the package of bills are small business loans to be paid out by counties by February 12, 2021, and utility and eviction assistance funds. https://www.cpr.org/2020/12/03/how-colorado-lawmakers-spent-342-million-in-coronavirus-aid-in-record-time/

November 18: On November 9, 2020, Governor Polis issued Executive Order D 2020 245, which extends the statewide requirement to wear a face covering to reduce the spread of COVID-19. https://www.colorado.gov/governor/sites/default/files/inline-files/D%202020%20245%20Mask%20Order.pdf

In Red Tier counties, businesses offering personal services are limited to operating at 25% capacity. New tiers have been added, including a Purple Tier for those counties that are considered to be at "Extreme Risk." Counties currently in the Red Tier are: Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson, La Plata, Logan, Mesa, Morgan, Routt, Summit, Washington, and Pueblo. View the order.

November 10: The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) has moved Denver to the more restrictive Safer at Home Dial Level 3 effective October 26, 2020. Level 3 restrictions reduce maximum capacity from 50% to 25% at businesses offering personal services. https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/covid-19/coronavirus-news/october-2020/denver-to-level-3.html

October 16: Governor Polis issued Executive Order D 2020 219, which extends a previous public health order and requires individuals to wear face coverings over their nose and mouth through November 10, 2020. https://www.colorado.gov/governor/sites/default/files/inline-files/D%202020%20219%20Nonmedical%20Face%20Coverings.pdf

August 18: The public health order requiring people to wear face masks in public in Colorado has been extended for another month. Governor Polis extended the statewide mandate through September 13, 2020. https://www.colorado.gov/governor/sites/default/files/inline-files/D%202020%20164%20Non%20Medical%20Face%20Covering.pdf

July 16: Governor Polis issued Executive Order D 2020 138 on July 16, 2020, which is a mandatory statewide mask order that will be in effect for 30 days and possibly extended. The order requires individuals to wear a covering over their nose and mouth when in any indoor public space and while on any public transportation.

June 19: The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) issued new Personal Care Guidelines that allow for services without the client wearing a mask if the practitioner is wearing a mask and face shield. https://covid19.colorado.gov/safer-at-home/safer-at-home-personal-services

June 10: The Colorado Department of Health issued new guidelines on June 4. The guidelines continue to require that practitioners only provide services that can be done without the client having to remove their mask. The new guidelines also increase the maximum occupancy to 50% or 50 people, whichever is fewer. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/CODORA/bulletins/28821be

April 28: We are in consistent communication with DORA, and information is being released on a daily basis. To share feedback directly with the state of Colorado, use this link: https://covid19.colorado.gov/CovidConcerns.

April 27: Governor Polis is expected to officially announce in the coming days the parameters for personal services businesses to reopen with strict precautions beginning Friday, May 1, 2020. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) stresses that if you are not currently operating as a critical service business, you should not open your doors on April 27, 2020. Please note that lifting statewide restrictions does not relieve you of continuing to comply with local public health orders. DORA will communicate via email a comprehensive summary of state-level information and guidance specific to your industry. Personal services should not take place until these directives are conveyed, can be fully implemented, and you can safely reopen, should you choose to do so.April 23. The current Executive Order expires on April 26, 2020. A new Executive Order outlining a tiered reopening of Colorado, with guidance, will be issued on April 27, 2020. No massage therapists, estheticians, or cosmetologists should reopen their businesses on April 27. DORA will be sending a message to licensees by April 27.https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/CODORA/bulletins/28821be

April 23: The current Executive Order expires on April 26, 2020. A new Executive Order outlining a tiered reopening of Colorado, with guidance, will be issued on April 27, 2020. No massage therapists, estheticians, or cosmetologists should reopen their businesses on April 27. DORA will be sending a message to licensees by April 27.

April 21: Legislative update from AHP: Colorado COVID-19 State Update. On April 20, 2020, Colorado Governor Jared Polis announces guidelines for a gradual reopening of the state. The Governor explained this will include strong recommendations and restrictions for businesses that are allowed to slowly reopen in the coming weeks. Personal service providers and elective medical providers, including hair salons, dental offices and tattoo shops, will be able to reopen with some precautions on April 27, 2020. Massage therapy was not exclusively mentioned, however, it is our assumption they too will be allowed to reopen. We are working with DORA and other state officials for clarification. https://www.denverpost.com/2020/04/20/colorado-coronavirus-covid-stay-at-home-order-ends/

April 2: Regarding Governor Polis’s March 19, 2020, Executive Order 2020 009 banning elective and non-emergency procedures: DORA-licensed massage therapists need to be diligent about compliance with the order. The state strongly recommends all licensed professionals adhere to CDPHE’s guidance regarding social distancing. Under this guidance, individuals are advised not to interact unless they can maintain a six-foot distance to prevent the spread of the virus. Contact between practitioners and clients should be limited to essential services only. Download PDF

March 26: Gov. Jared Polis said he is issuing a statewide stay-at-home order effective Thursday morning in his latest attempt to try to slow the spread of the new coronavirus. The order, unveiled Wednesday afternoon at a news conference, goes into effect Thursday at 6:00 a.m. and continues until at least April 11. The order generally requires Coloradans to stay home unless they need to leave for necessary business reasons or to get food, exercise, or seek medical care. Businesses deemed “critical” are exempt. https://coloradosun.com/2020/03/25/colorado-staty-at-home-order-coronavirus/

March 19: Colorado Department of Public Health Order. “This order, effective immediately, impacts DORA licensees in the Barber/Cosmetology and Massage Therapy fields. Hair stylists, nail technicians, barbers, estheticians, cosmetologists, massage therapists, and shop owners in the barber/cosmetology industry licensed by the Division of Professions and Occupations are impacted.” Order in place through April 30, 2020.

Connecticut

May 14: Governor Lamont announced that Connecticut will be following CDC guidance and ending indoor mask requirements for most indoor settings for those who are fully vaccinated beginning May 19, 2021. https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/coronavirus/gov-lamont-to-give-covid-briefing-at-4-p-m/2487170/

November 24: Governor Lamont announced that all executive orders issued pursuant to the public health and civil preparedness emergencies scheduled to expire November 9, 2020, will remain in place through February 9, 2021. https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Office-of-the-Governor/Executive-Orders/Lamont-Executive-Orders/Executive-Order-No-9L.pdf

October 16: Governor Lamont has extended all executive orders (COVID-19 Orders) related to the public health and civil preparedness emergencies declared on March 10, 2020, and renewed on September 1, 2020. These orders are now in effect through November 9, 2020. https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Office-of-the-Governor/Executive-Orders/Lamont-Executive-Orders/Executive-Order-No-9A.pdf

September 15: Governor Lamont announced that all executive orders issued pursuant to the public health and civil preparedness emergencies scheduled to expire September 9, 2020, will remain in place through November 9, 2020. https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Office-of-the-Governor/Executive-Orders/Lamont-Executive-Orders/Executive-Order-No-9A.pdf

June 11: Governor Lamont announced Phase 2 of Reopen Connecticut, allowing day spas, estheticians, waxing, massage therapy, nail technicians, and eyelash technicians to resume business operations June 17, 2020. The state developed guidance for personal services beginning on page 7 of the linked document. https://business.ct.gov/-/media/DECD/Covid_Business_Recovery-Phase-2/Prsnl-Srvcs_C3_v1.pdf

May 15: Phase 1 of Reopen Connecticut allows hair salons and barbershops to reopen May 20, 2020, at 50% capacity and by appointment only with waiting rooms closed. Services will be restricted; those that require removal of a facemask (beard trimming, lip waxing, etc) are prohibited at this time. Review the state guidelines for barbers and hairdressers here: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DECD/Covid_Business_Recovery/CTReopensHairBarbershopsC5V051220.pdf?la=en. https://portal.ct.gov/DECD/Content/Coronavirus-Business-Recovery/Sector-Rules-for-May-20-Reopen

April 10: Schools will remain closed and restrictions on businesses will continue until at least May 20, 2020, and potentially longer unless widespread testing for the coronavirus becomes available to determine whether people remain at risk of contracting or spreading the disease, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont said April 10, 2020. https://www.journalinquirer.com/connecticut_and_region/shutdown-extended-to-may-20/article_34c3f692-7b44-11ea-99fc-63370669bd4d.html

March 26: Governor Ned Lamont ordered and directed restrictions on workplaces for non-essential businesses effective March 23, 2020, at 8:00 p.m. through April 22, 2020, unless earlier modified, extended, or terminated. All businesses and not-for-profit entities in the state shall employ telecommuting or work from home procedures and reduce their in-person workforces by 100% not later than March 23, 2020, at 8:00 p.m. https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Office-of-the-Governor/Executive-Orders/Lamont-Executive-Orders/Executive-Order-No-7H.pdf

Delaware

February 9: On February 4, 2021, Governor Carney issued an order that allows barbershops, hair salons, massage therapy establishments, nail salons, spas, waxing salons, and businesses offering similar personal care services to continue operations, provided that the total number of guests at any time does not exceed 50% maximum occupancy. Face masks and face shields are required for facials and other services where a mask is temporarily removed. See page 12 of the linked document. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2021/02/Sixth-Revision-to-the-27th-Modification-of-the-Declaration-of-a-SOE-State-of-Delaware-02042021.pdf

December 14: On December 10, 2020, Governor Carney reduced the maximum occupancy for a business from 60% to 30%, excluding employees. This order is effective December 14, 2020. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/12/Fourth-Revision-to-the-27th-Modification-of-the-Declaration-of-a-SOE-State-of-Delaware-12.10.20.pdf

December 7: Governor Carney and the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) announced a new Stay-at-Home advisory on December 3, 2020. The advisory strongly encourages all Delawareans to avoid gathering indoors with people outside their household from December 14, 2020, through January 11, 2021, due to the dangerous winter surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Delaware. In addition, the governor and the DPH will institute a mask mandate statewide, requiring individuals to wear a cloth face covering anytime they are indoors with anyone outside their immediate household. https://news.delaware.gov/2020/12/03/governor-carney-announces-stay-at-home-advisory-universal-indoor-mask-order/

December 1: On November 25, 2020, Governor Carney issued a ninth extension of the Declaration of a State of Emergency for the state of Delaware. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/11/Ninth-Extension-of-State-of-Emergency-11252020.pdf

October 16: Governor Carney extended the State of Emergency that was first declared on March 12, 2020, and all of its 27 modifications effective immediately until terminated by state law. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/10/Seventh-Extension-of-State-of-Emergency-10022020.pdf

July 23: Governor Carney issued the 13th modification of the Declaration of Emergency, requiring people to wear masks when indoors at businesses or when outdoors and unable to maintain social distancing. https://governor.delaware.gov/health-soe/thirteenth-state-of-emergency/

June 8: We received the following information from the Delaware Division of Public Health call center, which allows facials to resume under certain conditions: "At this time during the Phased plan, customers would be required to wear the mask until which time they are receiving services that would be unable to be performed with the mask on. At this time customer is permitted to remove the mask, and will be required after those services are performed to put the mask back on."

June 3: Governor Carney announced Phase 2 of Delaware's Reopening. Personal care services, which includes "hair salons, barbershops, tattoo parlors, massage therapy services, nail salons, spas, facials, waxing services, brow services, and similar," may open June 8, 2020. Personal care service guidance can be found on page 10. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/06/Delaware-Economic-Reopening-PHASE-2.pdf

May 21: Governor Carney announced Phase 1 of Delaware Reopens, allowing barbershops and hair salons to reopen as of June 1. Guidelines and mandates can be found on page 18 of the linked document. In addition, general guidances and mandates for individuals and businesses can be found on pages 12–13. Massage therapy services, esthetics/skin care, nail salons, waxing services, and spas are not included in Phase 1 openings "unless the health of the client would be jeopardized without access to the service." If you perform a service that falls under this restriction, use the guidances for barbershops and hair salons. https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/05/Delaware-Economic-Reopening-Guidance-Phase-1-Revised_05202020.pdf

Governor Carney extended the stay-at-home order through May 31, 2020. https://governor.delaware.gov/health-soe/second-extension-declaration-of-a-state-of-emergency/

March 26: Governor John C. Carney issued a stay at home order and defined essential businesses. Click here for its definition: https://governor.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2020/03/Fourth-Modification-to-State-of-Emergency-03222020.pdf

District of Columbia

August 4: Effective July 31, 2021, all individuals in DC must wear masks indoors, as prescribed by DC Health Guidance. This mandate comes after the CDC updated its facial covering guidance, recommending that fully vaccinated individuals should wear masks indoors in areas where transmission of COVID-19 is substantial or high. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/Mayors-Order-2021-097.pdf

July 15: The DC Health Department issued updated mask and face covering guidance. Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to wear a mask in any setting, indoor or outdoor, with a few exceptions: homeless shelters, correctional facilities, schools and childcare facilities, health-care settings, public transportation, and as required per workplace or business policies. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/Masks_and_Cloth_Face_Coverings_DCHealth_COVID-19_Guidance_2021.5.28.pdf

May 14: In the May 10, 2021, Situational Update, Mayor Bowser announced that restrictions on public and commercial activity, including capacity limits, types of activities, and time restrictions, will be lifted on May 21, 2021. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/release_content/attachments/Situational-Update-Presentation_051021.pdf

December 7: Mayor Bowser launched new Housing Stabilization Grants to offer financial relief to renters and housing providers who have been hit hard by the pandemic. Applications open December 1, 2020, and close December 11, 2020. For more information, view page 7 of the linked document. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/Situational-Update-Presentation_11-30-20.pdf

September 15: Washington, DC's Phase Two Guidance for Personal Services was updated in late August for the following personal service establishments: barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, wax salons, and massage and health spa establishments. These businesses must operate by appointment only, ensure physical distancing, and follow the safety protocols outlined in the linked document. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/COVID-19_DC_Health_Guidance_for_Personal_Services_08202020.pdf

July 23: Mayor Bowser issued a mask mandate beginning July 22 through October 9, 2020. The mandate is for all indoor spaces and outdoor spaces where there is less than six foot distancing. It is unclear whether this affects facials, facial massages, or beard trims. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/maskorder

June 19: Mayor Bowser announced the District of Columbia will enter Phase Two June 22, 2020, allowing businesses offering personal services, including barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, wax salons, and spas, to resume operations June 22, 2020. Those who return to work must follow these guidelines: https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/UPDATED_06162020_DC_Health_Phase%20Two%20Guidance_for_Personal_Services_JIC%20REVIEWED%206.17.2020_NP.pdf. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/phasetwo

June 18: In a June 17, 2020, COVID-19 Situational Update, Mayor Bowser announced that personal services, including waxing, threading, facials, and nail services, will be permitted in Phase 2. NOTE: A date has yet to be released for the start of Phase 2. General guidelines state that services must be by appointment only, stations must be spaced six feet apart, and clients cannot wait inside establishments. Massage therapy was not specifically addressed in this statement. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/Hospital-Announcement-and-Situational-Updated-Presentation_061720.pdf

June 3: On May 27, 2020, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Phase One of Washington, DC Reopening. In Phase One, barbershops and hair salons may reopen May 29, 2020, by appointment only. There may only be one client per barber or stylist, and stations must be spaced six feet apart. Waiting inside the shop is not permitted. For clarity, nonessential businesses that remain closed at this time are spas, massage therapy establishments, nail salons, and businesses offering waxing and facials. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/DC_20200529_N0093734.pdf

May 18: Mayor Muriel Bowser issued Mayor’s Order 2020-066 to extend Washington, DC’s public health emergency, requiring businesses to remain closed and individuals to remain at home. The order is effective May 16, 2020, through June 8, 2020. https://coronavirus.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/coronavirus/page_content/attachments/Mayors-Order-2020-066-Extensions-of-Public-Emergency-and-Public-Health.pdf

March 31: D.C. issued a stay-at-home order Monday, March 30, for its residents to help contain the coronavirus outbreak, which goes into effect Wednesday, April 1, 2020, at 12:01 a.m. Everyone in D.C. must stay at their residence, with certain exceptions, such as: getting medical care that cannot be provided through telehealth, getting food and essential household goods, performing or accessing essential governmental functions, working at essential businesses, engaging in essential travel, or engaging in allowable recreational activities. A person who does not follow the order could be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 90 days, or both. View the mayor's orders here: https://wtop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Mayors-Order-2020-054-Stay-at-Home.pdf

Florida

May 11: On May 3, 2021, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-102, which suspends all local COVID-19 restrictions and mandates on individuals and businesses. The intention of the order is to accelerate the state's recovery and is effective immediately. https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2021/EO_21-102.pdf

January 5: Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-316 that extends the state of emergency within the state of Florida for 60 days beginning December 29, 2020. https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-316.pdf

October 2: Governor DeSantis lifted all COVID-19 restrictions on businesses. However, local governments are permitted to implement local restrictions, so be sure to check with your county and city regarding restrictions they may have in place. https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-244.pdf

May 10: Governor DeSantis issued mandatory restrictions for barbershops, cosmetology salons, and specialty cosmetology salons. Masks must be worn by all employees. Services must be provided by appointment only, and 15 minutes must be alloted between appointments to allow for proper disinfecting practices. No group appointments are permitted. http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/os/documents/2020.05.09%20DBPR%20-%20Information%20for%20Barbers-Cosmetology%20Reopening.pdf

Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-120, announcing Palm Beach County entering Phase 1 and the reopening of barbershops, hair salons, and nail salons. Individuals holding state-issued barber or cosmetology licenses may return to practice May 11, 2020. This includes barbers, restricted barbers, cosmetologists, nail specialists, facial specialists, full specialists, hair braiders, hair wrappers, and body wrappers. Answers to FAQs regarding Executive Order 20-120 can be found here: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/os/documents/2020.05.09%20DBPR%20FAQs%20re%20Executive%20Order%2020-120.pdf. https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/EO-20-120.pdf

April 3: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a stay-at-home executive order requiring all persons in Florida to limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home beginning 12:01 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2020 through April 30, 2020. https://www.orlandosentinel.com/coronavirus/os-ne-coronavirus-florida-stay-at-home-executive-order-20200401-2gzu3nenonaohaz6w5narcff3e-story.html

March 23: Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-72, regarding non-essential elective medical procedures. "All hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, office surgery centers, dental, orthodontic and endodontic offices, and other health care practitioners’ offices in the state of Florida are prohibited from providing any medically unnecessary, non-urgent or non-emergency procedure or surgery which, if delayed, does not place a patient's immediate health, safety or wellbeing at risk, or will, if delayed, not contribute to the worsening of a serious or life-threatening medical condition". https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-72.pdf

Georgia

January 5: Governor Kemp issued an Executive Order that outlines COVID-19 safety measures for estheticians, hair designers, and massage therapists. A previous order expired and outlined the same protocols, which have not changed. See page 21 of the linked document for a refresher on the safety requirements. This order is effective December 30, 2020, through January 15, 2021. PDF.

December 3: Governor Kemp issued an Executive Order that outlines safety measures estheticians, hairstylists, and massage therapists are required to implement in their places of business. See page 20 of the linked document.

October 16: Governor Kemp renewed the Public Health State of Emergency through November 9, 2020. Attached is a PDF of the executive order.

October 1: Governor Kemp signed the Board's emergency rule, which allows CE taken between September 24 and October 31, 2020, to be online CE. The live requirement for renewal will return in place for the renewal cycle ending in October 2022. Those who took online classes prior to September 24, 2020, will need to apply for a variance for those courses by October 31, 2021, for those classes to be considered in compliance. Finally, all online courses must be NCBTMB-approved. https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/33

July 27: In a July 21, 2020, press release, Governor Kemp called on Georgians to help stop the spread of the coronavirus by wearing a mask when out in public and by physically distancing yourself six feet from others. https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2020-07-21/governor-kemp-calls-georgians-do-four-things-four-weeks-stop-covid-19

April 27: On April 23, 2020, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued Executive Order 04.23.20.01, which outlines the additional measures that esthetics, hair, and massage therapy businesses must take upon reopening this Friday, April 24, 2020. The protocols are listed on page 15 of the document. NOTE: The order does not require that you open your businesses, but provides regulation in the event that you do. Read the PDF here

April 21: Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp announced on April 20, 2020, that gyms, fitness centers, barbers, cosmetologists, hair designers, nail care artists, estheticians, and massage therapists will be allowed to reopen their doors this Friday, April 24, 2020. The entities reopening are required to follow Minimum Basic Operation, which include among other things: Personal Protective Equipment available to all workers, increasing physical space between worksites “to at least six (6) feet, suspending the use of pin pads or electronic signature capture, requiring and screening for sick workers, and providing for hand-sanitizing or washing stations at appropriate places, among other things. In addition, not more than 10 people shall be allowed to gather at a location if there is not six(6) feet between them. Staggering shifts is also required. "Minimum Basic Operations are limited to “The minimum necessary activities to maintain the value of a business. . . to provide services, manage inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits. Schools are allowed to use distance learning through the end of the emergency, which may be as soon as May 14, 2020. https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2020-04-20/gov-kemp-updates-georgians-covid-19

April 1: Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said April 1, 2020, that he is issuing a statewide shelter-in-place order as the state continues to battle the coronavirus. During a news conference Wednesday afternoon, the governor said he would sign the order on Thursday and it would go into effect on Friday, April 3, 2020. https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/atlanta/gov-kemp-give-update-state-response-coronavirus-crisis/T2JKSNBA2BGQNOGOTQ7Z75S5BI/

March 27: The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers acknowledges the concerns of all involved parties about the spread of COVID-19. Under careful consideration, the Board voted to allow all Board licensed and approved schools to teach the theory portion of the curriculum through online education. Schools may utilize electronic education through current national programs such as Milady or Pivot Point, or classes taught through webinars like Go To Meeting, Citrix, and others. The practical part of the curriculum must still be taught inside the school. https://sos.ga.gov/PLB/acrobat/Forms/28%20Reference%20-%20COVID-19%20Memorandum%20for%20Schools.pdf

Hawaii

December 8: Governor Ige extended previous COVID-19 proclamations through December 31, 2020. Massage therapists can continue to work following the rules in Exhibit A (page 36), and barbers and beauty operators can continue to work following the rules in Exhibit G (page 63). The statewide mask mandate is still in effect and is outlined in Exhibit J (page 72). https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2011098-ATG_Sixteenth-Proclamation-Related-to-the-COVID-19-Emergency-distribution-signed.pdf

October 26: Oahu will allow businesses offering personal care services to resume operations October 22, 2020. Businesses that choose to open must follow Tier 2 Guidelines provided in the linked document in Section 19. https://www.oneoahu.org/reopening/#services

October 16: Governor Ige extended the disaster emergency relief period through October 31, 2020. https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2009139-ATG_Thirteenth-Supplementary-Proclamation-for-COVID-19-distribution-signed.pdf

September 15: Mayor Caldwell of Honolulu County extended the stay-at-home order effective September 10, 2020, through September 23, 2020. https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/may/may_docs/EO_2020-26.pdf

August 10: Governor Ige issued statewide mask mandates of everyone entering a business through August 30. There are also county-specific guidelines: Hawaii (https://coronavirus-response-county-of-hawaii-hawaiicountygis.hub.arcgis.com/); Honolulu (http://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/proclamations-orders-and-rules.html); Kauai (https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Emergency-Management-Agency-formerly-Civil-Defense/Emergency-Proclamations) and Maui (https://www.mauicounty.gov/2370/COVID-19-Coronavirus-Information). https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2007090-ATG_Tenth-Supplementary-Proclamation-for-COVID-19-distribution-signed.pdf

July 27: Mayor Caldwell of Honolulu County issued Emergency Order No. 2020-18, ordering all individuals within the city to wear face coverings while outdoors in public spaces when maintaining a physical distance of six feet is not feasible. https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/may/may_docs/Emergency_Order_No._2020-18.pdf

June 11: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures in place, the deadline to renew current licenses that expire by June 30, 2020, has been extended to July 31, 2020. https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/files/2020/05/2020-JuneRenewalExtension-COVID-19.pdf

Mayor Kim announced that personal services provided by barbers, hairdressers, estheticians, nail technicians, and massage therapists may reopen in Hawaii County June 1, 2020, per Mayor’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule No. 5. Those who return to work must comply with Rules Relating to Safety Guidelines for Barbers and Beauty Operators (https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/files/2020/05/Eighth-Sup-Proc-Rules.pdf). https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/2005175-COH_Mayors-COVID-19-Emergency-Rule-No.-5-distribution-signed.pdf

Mayor Caldwell announced that personal services provided by barbers, hairdressers, estheticians, nail technicians, and massage therapists may reopen in Honolulu County May 29, 2020, per Emergency Order No. 2020-14. Those who return to work must comply with specific requirements detailed in the Emergency Order in the linked document beginning on page 27. http://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/may/may_docs/Emergency_Order_No._2020-14.pdf

In a press release, Mayor Victorino announced that personal services provided by estheticians, massage therapists, and others may reopen in Maui County June 1, 2020, under the county's health and safety guidelines. https://www.mauicounty.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=10132

Per Mayor Kawakami’s Emergency Rule 10, salons, barbershops, and massage therapy establishments may resume business operations May 22, 2020, in Kaua'i County. https://www.kauai.gov/Portals/0/Civil_Defense/Emergency%20Proclamations/Mayor%27s%20Emergency%20Rule%20%2310.pdf

May 18: Governor David Ige issued a reinstatement of Executive Order No. 20-05 on May 5, 2020, allowing "health care professionals," to return to work. See Exhibit A 1(b) in the linked document. https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/2005024-ATG_Seventh-Supplementary-Proclamation-for-COVID-19-distribution-signed-1.pdf

April 9: Hawaii Governor David Y. Ige extended the disaster emergency relief period through April 30, 2020, unless terminated or extended by a separate proclamation. Clarification received from the Hawaii government: Health-care services and facilities are exempt from the Governor’s March 23, 2020, Third Supplemental Proclamation as long as proper social distancing measures are followed to the fullest extent possible. DCCA-licensed massage therapists would be within that exemption. https://governor.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2003248-ATG_Fourth-Supplementary-Proclamation-for-COVID-19-distribution-signed.pdf

March 25: Governor David Ige signed a third supplementary proclamation Monday, ordering the entire state to stay at home and work from home starting at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, March 25 through April 30. Essential workers are exempt. To ensure that the state continues to provide essential, core services, there are exemptions in the following categories: Healthcare services, grocery stores and pharmacies, food production and farming, public and private schools, restaurants offering take-out services, hotels and motels, construction, and essential government functions. Non-compliance would be a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, or up to one year in jail, or both. For questions about exemptions, email CovidExemption@hawaii.gov. https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/latest-news/office-of-the-governor-news-release-governor-ige-issues-statewide-order-to-stay-at-home-work-from-home-to-fight-covid-19/

Idaho

February 9: After moving back to Stage 2 in the Idaho Rebounds plan in November 2020, Governor Little announced the state will be moving forward to Stage 3 after weeks of declining COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations. Face coverings are still strongly recommended. View the Stage 3 Healthy Guidelines here: https://rebound.idaho.gov/stage-3-stay-healthy-guidelines/. https://gov.idaho.gov/pressrelease/idaho-advances-to-stage-3-as-covid-19-case-counts-hospitalizations-decline/

November 24: On November 13, 2020, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare issued a Stay Healthy Order moving the state back into a modified Stage 2 of Idaho Rebounds. Individuals not within the same household should maintain at least six feet of physical distance from others and should wear face coverings while in public. This order is effective November 14, 2020, and shall remain so until it is rescinded or amended. https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/stage-2-modified-order.pdf

November 10: Governor Little signed a statewide public health order effective October 27, 2020, moving Idaho back into a modified Stage 3 of Idaho Rebounds due to spikes in COVID-19 cases and constraints on health-care facilities. Businesses offering close-contact services must follow the guidelines in the following document: https://rebound.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/Protocols_CloseContactB1026-01.pdf. https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/stay-healthy-order-stage3_2020oct27.pdf

May 18: Close contact services are permitted to reopen May 16, 2020, during Stage 2 of Idaho Rebounds. This includes waxing salons, massage therapy establishments, barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, and cosmetic services. The state of Idaho recommends businesses use the following protocols as guidance for their plans to reopen in Stage 2 in the linked document. https://rebound.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/stage2-protocols-close-contact-services.pdf

April 27: Any facility or service (including formerly "nonessential" businesses) can begin to operate via curbside services, drive-in, drive-through pickup, mailed services, or delivery services through to April 30, 2020.

March 27: Idaho Governor Brad Little has issued a statewide 21-day stay at home order. All restaurants must immediately stop having dining in services and can only have drive-through, curbside, delivery, and to-go orders. Non-essential businesses, such as bars, nightclubs, gyms, recreational facilities, entertainment venues, convention centers, and hair and nail salons, will need to close. https://ibol.idaho.gov/IBOL/BoardPage.aspx?Bureau=BCB

March 16: At its regularly scheduled and noticed meeting, the Board voted to allow barber and cosmetology schools to use distance learning for Theory courses, including the use of mannequin heads if necessary, from now until April 6, 2020. At its April 2, 2020, meeting, the Board will revisit this decision and provide further guidance to schools at that time. https://idahonews.com/news/coronavirus/idaho-governor-brad-little-coronavirus-update-wednesday-covid19

Illinois

May 14: While Illinois just entered the “Bridge Phase,” a milestone to a full reopening of the state economy, Governor Pritzker announced the state will follow new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on masks and social distancing both indoors and outdoors. Individuals no longer need to wear a mask in certain settings and only if they are at least two weeks out after receiving their second COVID-19 vaccine. https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/coronavirus/pritzker-to-revise-orders-on-mask-wearing-after-new-cdc-guidance-released/2509698/

January 21: The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity confirmed that those regions that move to Tier 2 move back to Phase 4 guidelines. Phase 4 allows massage to be performed without a doctor's note and for masks to be removed for services as long as the provider is wearing a face mask and a face shield. https://dceocovid19resources.com/restore-illinois/restore-illinois-phase-4/personal-care-services/

January 19: COVID-19 Executive Order No. 72 moves Regions 1, 2, and 5 out of Tier 3 public health restrictions and mitigations and into the less restrictive Tier 2 orders effective January 15, 2021. https://www2.illinois.gov/Pages/Executive-Orders/ExecutiveOrder2021-02.aspx

November 18: As of Friday, November 20, new Personal Care Service Guidelines have been issued. Services that were allowed to have masks temporarily removed, including facials and beard trims, are now prohibited. Massage is "allowed as deemed necessary by a medical provider." https://www2.illinois.gov/IISNews/22356-Tier_3_Resurgence_Migitations.pdf

October 15: A state Emergency Order allows massage therapists to obtain all 24 CE credits required for the 2020 renewal cycle online. Online courses do not have to be "live" webinars. https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/index/register/volume44/register_volume44_issue_40.pdf

October 1: Governor Pritzker approved emergency rules that allow all online continuing education to be accepted for this renewal period.

July 16: Governor Pritzker issued Executive Order 2020-43 that requires individuals to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when in a public place, whether indoors or outdoors, and unable to maintain a six-foot social distance.

June 11: Personal Care Services Guidelines issued by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity were recently updated. The guidelines now allow services to be performed without masks on the client, when appropriate. Initially, the guidelines included a 30-minute limit on massage and body treatment services (body wraps, scrubs, etc.). This time restriction has been removed. https://dceocovid19resources.com/assets/Restore-Illinois/businessguidelines3/personalcare.pdf

June 8: Personal Care Services Guidelines were updated to reflect no time restriction on massage services and allowing services without masks on the client to be perfomed as long as the practitioner is wearing a mask and a face shield. https://dceocovid19resources.com/assets/Restore-Illinois/businessguidelines3/personalcare.pdf

June 1: Phase III will be later in Chicago than the rest of Illinois—mayor Lori Lightfoot is expected to make an announcement later this week regarding a Phase III date for Chicago. https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2020/05/24/gov-pritzker-announces-guidelines-for-safe-reopening-of-businesses-under-phase-3-of-restore-illinois-plan/

May 27: Hair salons, hair braiders, barbershops, nail salons, spas, massage establishments, waxing centers, cosmetology schools, and other providers of personal care services may resume business operations during the Phase III: Recovery stage of Restore Illinois with guidelines that services should be limited to those that can be performed while both the practitioner and client are wearing masks and that massage therapy and body treatment sessions be 30 minutes or less (https://dceocovid19resources.com/assets/Restore-Illinois/businessguidelines3/personalcare.pdf). We are working to clarify when Phase III begins and when professionals may reopen. https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/restore-illinois-phase-3

May 21: A Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity FAQ issued in April, 2020, and updated as of May 20, 2020, confirmed that massage therapy is not considered an essential business unless the treatment is being performed due to a physician's order. Barbershops and hair salons are also considered nonessential, but can be open for retail sales only at this time. https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/Documents/Essential%20Business%20FAQ.pdf

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issued a variance permitting licensed barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, hair braiding, and nail technology schools to teach online theory courses and theory portions of practicum courses up to a maximum of 50 percent via distance learning. This variance only applies to students who were current students prior to March 20, 2020, the date the Governor issued Executive Order 2020-10. https://www.idfpr.com/Forms/COVID19/Updated%20Cosmo%20Curriculum%20Variance%2050%20percent.pdf

May 8: Governor Pritzker extended the stay at home order through May 29, 2020. https://www2.illinois.gov/Pages/Executive-Orders/ExecutiveOrder2020-33.aspx

March 20: Shelter in Place order issued for all people except for essential services through 4/7/2020. Any professional licenses issued by the department with renewal dates between March 1, 2020, through and including July 31, 2020, are granted an automatic extension to renew to September 30, 2020. https://kanecountyconnects.com/2020/03/covid-19-illinois-update-oak-park-shelter-in-place-lightfoot-asks-people-to-stay-home-metra-sched-update/

Indiana

June 21: On May 28, 2021, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 21-15, announcing that all pandemic-related executive orders will be rescinded as of June 30, 2021, unless the public health emergency continues, at which time another order will be issued. The order indicates that both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals should follow CDC guidelines to determine when they need to wear a mask. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive-Order-21-15-Continuation-of-Health-and-Welfare-Provsions.pdf

January 5: On December 31, 2020, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-53, announcing that Indiana will continue to use the county-based assessments to determine which measures and restrictions are needed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. This order is effective January 4, 2021, through January 24, 2021. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive-Order-20-53-Ext-of-20-50-Cont.-of-Color-Coded-County-Assessments.pdf

December 11: On December 10, 2020, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-50, announcing that Indiana will continue to use the color-coded, county-based metrics system to monitor the spread of COVID-19 within the state. General requirements for all businesses operating during this time are found on page 5-7 of the linked document. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive-Order-20-50-Continuation-of-Color-Coded-County-Assessments.pdf

December 3: Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-49, extending the Public Health Disaster Emergency through December 31, 2020. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive-Order-20-49-Ninth-Renewal-of-Emergency-Declaration.pdf

November 24: On November 13, 2020, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-48, which implements a color-coded system to inform Indiana residents about the status of COVID-19 on a county-by-county basis. The metrics report county health assessments using four color zones: blue, yellow, orange, and red. The order also requires residents to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when inside or outside in public spaces. Persons receiving a service during which the temporary removal of a face covering is required are exempt. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive_Order_20-48_Color-Coded_County_Assessments.pdf

July 23: Governor Holcomb issued a statement saying masks will be required as of Monday, July 27, 2020. This includes indoor spaces, outdoor spaces when social distancing cannot be achieved, and when traveling in ridesharing or public transportation. An executive order will be issued before July 27 that will outline when masks can be removed. We hope to know more about how this will affect services that require a mask to be removed, such as facials, beard trims, and face massages, when the order is issued. https://calendar.in.gov/site/gov/event/governor-announces-statewide-face-covering-requirement/

May 18: On May 1, 2020, Governor Eric J. Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-26, introducing five stages that will be used to reopen the state of Indiana, with each additional stage being subject to fewer restrictions and limitations than the previous stage. Per the order, personal service businesses, including spas, salons, barbershops, and massage therapy establishments, are to remain closed in Stage 1. However, these businesses may reopen and begin operation one week following Stage 2. The date depends on the county you live in. Refer to the linked document on page 8 for the safefy protocols you must follow to reopen. For counties advancing to Stage 2 on May 4, 2020, personal service businesses may open May 11, 2020. For counties advancing to Stage 2 on May 11, 2020, personal service businesses may open May 18, 2020. For counties advancing to Stage 2 on May 18, 2020, personal service businesses may open May 23, 2020. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive%20Order%2020-26%20Roadmap%20to%20Reopen.pdf

May 14: Hair salons, barbershops, nail salons, spas, and massage therapy establishments may reopen in Stage 2 of Back on Track Indiana. Personal service professions open a week after the county opens. As such, Professional Service Businesses may reopen in all counties except Lake, Marion, and Cass counties on May 11, 2020; in Lake and Marion counties on May 18, 2020; and Cass county on May 25, 2020. All businesses must operate by appointment only. Employees and clients must wear face coverings to the extent practicable, and work stations must be spaced to meet social distancing guidelines and must be cleaned after each customer. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive%20Order%2020-26%20Roadmap%20to%20Reopen%20Indiana.pdf

April 13: Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-18 on April 6, 2020, replacing Executive Order 20-08, which extends Indiana's Stay-at-Home order through April 20, 2020. The Governor detailed which businesses are deemed essential during the pandemic, which you can find at the following link: https://coronavirus.in.gov/2496.htm. Any health-care service must comply with social distancing requirements established by the CDC, including maintaining six-foot social distancing for both employees and members of the general public at all times. https://www.in.gov/gov/files/Executive%20Order%2020-18%20Cont%20Stay%20at%20Home%20Restaurants%20Govt%20Ops.pdf

March 27: From the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA): licenses issued by the State that are set to expire in the next 60 days will instead expire on May 22, 2020. This means that any license that is currently active will remain active until at least May 22. This will affect the following professions licensed under PLA: cosmetology, barbering, and massage therapy. For the duration of the public health crisis, the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners has temporarily suspended 820 IAC 4-1-5(b). This suspension means that cosmetology students are no longer required to attain their cosmetology school hours in person at the school and may take remote programming provided by the cosmetology school. ​​​​​​https://www.in.gov/pla/4092.htm

March 19: The Madison County Health Department has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses beginning Friday in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new restrictions will be in effect from 8:00 a.m. March 20, 2020, through April 6, 2020. As a result, Madison County needs to take necessary steps to ensure the safety of each citizen in the community. The Madison County Health Department has directed the following actions: The closure of: hair salons, nail salons, spas, barber shops, tattoo parlors, liquor stores, electronic stores, department stores, hobby and craft stores, automotive dealerships, furniture stores, clothing stores, resale stores, and any other retail stores that do not sell food or home supplies. www.theindychannel.com/news/coronavirus/madison-county-orders-non-essential-businesses-to-close

Iowa

March 11: Governor Reynolds extended the Emergency Proclamation through April 4. Governor Reynolds "strongly encourages" public health protocols, but the mask mandate that was issued in November ended February 8, 2021. The Emergency Proclamation in still in place. https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202021.03.05.pdf

Governor Reynolds "strongly encourages" public health protocols, but the mask mandate that was issued in November ended February 8, 2021. The Emergency Proclamation in still in place. https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202021.02.05.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

December 11: Governor Reynolds extended the State of Public Health Disaster Emergency through January 8, 2021. Personal care services may continue to operate (Section CE, page 7). https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202020.12.09.pdf

November 18: On November 16, 2020, Governor Reynolds issued a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency in which she ordered all people two years or older to wear a mask or face covering when visiting an indoor space open to the public. This requirement is effective November 17, 2020, though December 10, 2020. Those working alone or providing a service that requires the temporary removal of a mask are exempt from this order. https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202020.11.16.pdf

November 12: Governor Reynolds extended the State of Public Health Disaster Emergency through December 10, 2020. Salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments, and any businesses offering cosmetology, electrology, esthetics, nail technology, manicuring, or pedicuring services must follow the guidelines set forth in the linked document on page 5 (Section 6E). https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202020.11.10.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

June 25: Governor Reynolds signed SF 2338 into law, which states that no person in Iowa can be held liable for injuries sustained from exposure or potential exposure to COVID-19, providing they follow all health regulations and guidelines: “A person in this state shall not be held liable for civil damages for any injuries sustained from exposure or potential exposure to COVID-19 if the act or omission alleged to violate a duty of care was in substantial compliance or was consistent with any federal or state statute, regulation, order, or public health guidance related to COVID-19 that was applicable to the person or activity at issue at the time of the alleged exposure or potential exposure.” https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=88&ba=SF2338

May 15: Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation, allowing salons, barbershops, and massage therapy establishments to reopen throughout Iowa May 15, 2020, with public health measures in place. View link for full list of state safety protocols. https://governor.iowa.gov/press-release/gov-reynolds-signs-new-proclamation-continuing-the-state-public-health-emergency-2

May 7: Salons (cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, manicuring, and pedicuring), barbershops, medical spas, and massage therapy establishments may reopen on May 15, 2020, except in the following counties: Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Dallas, Des Moines, Dubuqe, Fayette, Henry Iowa, Jasper, Johnson, Linn, Louisa, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Tama, Washington, and Woodbury. However, salons and barbershops may open on May 15, 2020, in the above counties. Massage therapy businesses cannot. https://www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/documents/disasters/proclamations/2020/PROC_2020_44_COVID-19_April27.pdf

May 4: Governor Reynolds ordered in a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency that all salons, (including establishments providing cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, manicuring, and pedicuring) barbershops, and massage therapy establishments must close. This proclamation is in effect through May 27, 2020, unless terminated earlier or extended. https://www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/documents/disasters/Proclamations/2020/PROC_2020_44_COVID-19_April27.pdf

March 25: Effective 10:00 p.m., March 22, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2020, the following establishments licensed by the Bureau of Professional Licensure shall be closed:

• Salons, including all establishments providing the services of cosmetology, electrology, esthetics, nail technology, manicuring, and pedicuring, all as defined in Iowa Code § 157.1
• Barbershops, as defined in Iowa Code § 158.1
• Massage therapy establishments, where an individual is practicing massage therapy as defined by Iowa Code § 152C.1(3).

https://governor.iowa.gov/press-release/gov-reynolds-signs-new-proclamation-continuing-state-public-health-emergency?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
 

Kansas

November 20: Executive Order No. 20-68, issued by Governor Kelly November 18, 2020, requires all persons in Kansas to wear a face covering effective November 25, 2020, until rescinded or the state of disaster emergency ends. Read the conditions under which a face covering is required in the linked document beginning on page 3. Services involving the nose or face that require the temporary removal of a face covering to perform the service are exempt from this order. https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/EO-20-68-Face-Coverings-protocol-Executed-2.pdf

November 12: Governor Kelly issued Executive Order 20-64 that extends several COVID-19 orders through January 26, 2021. Some of the orders allow for extending professional licenses, relief from certain unemployment insurance requirements, amended provisions related to drivers' licenses and vehicle registration and regulation, and temporarily prohibiting certain foreclosures and evictions during the state of the disaster emergency. View the complete list in the linked document. https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/EO-20-64-Executed.pdf

July 16: Per Executive Order 20-52, any person in Kansas must cover their mouth and nose with a mask or face covering when they are inside any indoor public space, obtaining services from the health-care sector, waiting for or riding on public transportation, or outdoors in public spaces and unable to maintain six feet from others. Exempt from this order are persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which the temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service.

June 25: Governor Kelly signed HB 2016, which protects those running a business in Kansas from liablity in a civil action for a COVID-19 claim. A summary of the bill states: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person (or agent of such person) conducting business in Kansas shall be immune from liability in a civil action for a COVID-19 claim if such person was acting pursuant to and in substantial compliance with public health directives applicable to the activity giving rise to the cause of action when the cause of action accrued. This section expires on January 26, 2021, and the bill (Section 15) states this provision applies retroactively to any cause of action accruing on or after March 12, 2020.” http://kslegislature.org/li_2020s/b2020s/measures/documents/hb2016_enrolled.pdf

May 15: Although many businesses were permitted to reopen under "Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas," nail salons, barber shops, and hair salons may reopen May 18, 2020, but only for pre-scheduled appointments or by online check-in. Businesses must meet the requirements found on page 15 of this document: https://covid.ks.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Reopen-Kansas-Framework-v5-1.pdf. https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/EO-20-31-Implementing-Phase-1.5-of-Ad-Astra-Plan-Executed.pdf

April 14: Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued Executive Order No. 20-24 on April 14, 2020, extending the statewide stay at home order through May 3, 2020. The Kansas Board of Cosmetology Licensed Schools authorized the Executive Director to temporarily approve school requests for distance learning for students currently enrolled where the distance learning venue meets the statutory 1:25 student-instructor ratio and a method of tracking attendance is in place. Schools requesting approval should email KBOC@ks.gov. http://www.kansas.gov/kboc/Notices/03132020_Notice.pdf

Kentucky

June 15: Governor Beshear announced that Kentucky will follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation that fully vaccinated individuals within the state will no longer need to wear a mask in most places, effective June 11, 2021. To read the updated facial covering requirements, view the linked document: https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20210513_Executive-Order_2021-326_State-of-Emergency.pdf. https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=GovernorBeshear&prId=775

May 14: Following the latest recommendation issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Governor Beshear announced that Kentuckians who are fully vaccinated will no longer be required to wear a mask in most indoor and outdoor settings. Individuals will still need to wear a mask in crowded groups. https://www.wbko.com/2021/05/13/gov-beshear-says-kentucky-will-follow-latest-cdc-guidelines-relaxing-mask-mandate/

March 8: Governor Beshear announced that several businesses, including barbershops, cosmetology and hair salons, massage therapy establishments, and nail salons, can increase capacity to 60% as the state completes its seventh straight week of declining COVID-19 cases. https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=GovernorBeshear&prId=638

November 24: On November 18, 2020, Governor Beshear issued Executive Order 2020-968, urging Kentuckians to continue wearing face coverings to protect themselves and others to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The order takes effect November 20, 2020, through December 13, 2020. https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20201118_Executive-Order_2020-968_State-of-Emergency.pdf

October 16: Governor Beshear issued Executive Order 2020-856 that extends the face covering requirement for members of the public in Kentucky. Face coverings must cover the nose and mouth, and be worn while inside a barbershop, hair salon, nail salon, spa, or any other indoor space where it is difficult to maintain a physical distance of at least six feet. https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20201006_Executive-Order_2020-856_Reneweal_Face-Coverings.pdf

July 27: The Kentucky Department of Health and Governor Beshear issued updated guidelines for massage therapy. In addition to the Healthy at Work Minimum Requirements, massage therapists must meet the requirements in the linked document in order to reopen and remain open. https://govsite-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/COcEcYoS4q2HQmXpyk9A_Healthy%20at%20Work%20Reqs%20-%20Massage%20Therapy%20-%20Final%20Version%203.0.pdf

July 14: Governor Beshear issued Executive Order 2020-586, mandating people in Kentucky to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering while inside any indoor public space, including hair salons, barbershops, nail salons, and more. Exempt from this order is "any person who is obtaining a service that requires temporary removal of the face covering in order to perform the service." https://governor.ky.gov/attachments/20200709_Executive-Order_State-of-Emergency.pdf

May 8: Governor Beshear's Healthy at Work plan announced massage therapy, hair salons, barbershops, cosmetology businesses, and nail salons can open May 25. Keep checking the Healthy at Work website for guidelines for each of the professions that you will need to have in place before you can reopen. https://govstatus.egov.com/ky-healthy-at-work

March 25: All "non-life-sustaining" businesses in Kentucky will be closed to in-person traffic by 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 26, as Kentucky officials try to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19, Governor Andy Beshear said Tuesday. Beshear said the businesses impacted by the latest order will be spelled out in an executive order Wednesday. Many businesses and retailers have already closed to in-person traffic, and Beshear said staples like groceries, pharmacies, and gas stations will continue to operate throughout the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.wbur.org/commonhealth/2020/03/23/baker-closes-businesses-coronavirus

Louisiana

June 8: Governor Edwards issued Proclamation Number 93 JBE 2021, ending the statewide face covering mandate. https://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/Proclamations/2021/93-JBE-2021-State-of-EmergencySigned.pdf

November 12: On November 5, 2020, Governor Edwards extended Phase 3 Mitigation Measures and statewide mask mandates through December 4, 2020. https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2783

August 10: Governor Bel Edwards continued Phase 2 restrictions, including a mask mandate, through August 28. https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2621

July 14: Only July 11, 2020, Governor Edwards issued Proclamation Number 89 JBE 2020, announcing a statewide mask mandate. The proclamation orders every individual in Louisiana to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth while in a commercial establishment or space open to the public, whether indoor or outdoor. There is currently no exception for those offering services who require the covering to be temporarily removed to perform the services. https://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/Proclamations/2020/89-JBE-2020.pdf

June 3: Governor John Bel Edwards issued Phase 2 guidelines, which allows massage therapists, estheticians, nail salons, barbershops, and hair salons to open June 5, 2020. http://www.lsbc.louisiana.gov/specific_news.aspx?news_id=138

March 25: Governor John Bel Edwards issued a statewide Stay at Home order that goes into effect at 5:00 p.m. Monday, March 23, to further fight the spread of COVID-19 in Louisiana. People can leave their homes to do essential things like buying groceries or food, pick up medicine, or go to work only if their job is essential. If you have to go out, make sure you practice social distancing measures and keep 6 feet between you and the people around you. The order is set to expire at the end of the night on Sunday, April 12. The new Stay at Home order has limits on the following: All personal care and grooming businesses, including but not limited to barber shops, beauty salons, nail salons, spas, massage parlors, tattoo parlors, and other similar businesses. The Board of Cosmetology will suspend testing. Testing closures due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) will begin March 23, 2020, and remain closed for a month. https://gov.louisiana.gov/order/

Maine

May 11: In an April 27, 2021, press release, Governor Mills announced that Maine is removing the requirement that individuals must wear face coverings in outdoor settings. Face coverings are still required for indoor public settings, however. The change is effective immediately and relevant guidance documents will be updated in the coming days. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/maine-updates-public-health-guidance-use-face-coverings-outdoor-public-settings-2021-04-27

March 12: In an Executive Order issued March 5, 2021, Governor Mills amended business occupancy limits. From March 26, 2021, through May 23, 2021, businesses are permitted 50% total occupancy. Beginning May 24, 2021, and thereafter, businesses will be permitted 75% total occupancy. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/EO%2093%2035.pdf

December 18: On December 11, 2020, Governor Mills revised an order that simplifies and strengthens the face covering requirements within the state of Maine. Read the revised order on the Maine.gov website. Practitioners are still allowed to temporarily remove masks for services that require access to the face, per the October 13, 2020, guidelines: https://www.maine.gov/decd/checklists/spas-services

November 18: Governor Mills issued an Executive Order to repeal the physical distance exemption regarding face coverings. It is now required to wear a face covering in public settings regardless of whether physical distance is able to be maintained. This requirement will remain in effect until amended or repealed. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/An%20Order%20to%20Revise%20Indoor%20Gathering%20Limits%2C%20Strengthen%20Face%20Covering%20Requirements%20and%20Delegate%20Certain%20Authority.pdf

October 16: Governor Mills ordered the commencement of Phase 4 of Restarting Maine's Economy Plan, effective October 13, 2020. The order includes a mask mandate and a limitation on indoor gathering capacities. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/An%20Order%20to%20Implement%20Phase%20Four%20of%20the%20Restarting%20Maines%20Economy%20Plan.pdf

August 14: Governor Mills extended the State of Civil Emergency through September 3, 2020. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/A%20Proclamation%20to%20Renew%20the%20Civil%20State%20of%20Emergency%20%28August%205%2C%202020%29.pdf

July 23: Governor Mills issued Executive Order 49, requiring the public to wear masks. https://www.mainepublic.org/sites/mpbn/files/202004/an_order_to_stay_safer_at_home.pdf

June 24: Governor Mills annouced Stage 3 openings on July 1, 2020, which includes spas, estheticians, and massage therapists. Guidelines for estheticians can be found here (https://www.maine.gov/decd/checklists/spas-services). Guidelines for massage therapists can be found here (https://www.maine.gov/decd/checklists/massage-facilities). Services that require removal of masks, such as facials and beard shaves, are prohibited and mobile massage has been declared unsafe and is strongly discouraged. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/mills-administration-releases-covid-19-prevention-checklists-stage-3-business-reopenings-2020

June 11: Governor Mills extended Executive Order 19 (Essential Businesses) on May 31, 2020, which will remain in effect until rescinded. Per Together We Are Maine: Restarting Maine's Economy Plan, it appears spas, skincare, massage therapy establishments, and hair removal services will be permitted to reopen July 1, 2020. View the Reopening Plan here: https://www.maine.gov/decd/covid-19-prevention-checklists. https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/sites/maine.gov.governor.mills/files/inline-files/An%20Order%20to%20Further%20Implement%20the%20Restarting%20Plan.pdf

May 7: Governor Mills updated Restarting Maine's Economy, a staged approach to the reopening of Maine's businesses. Barbershops and hair salons may open for hair services only, and there are protocols that must be followed. It appears nail technicians and manicurists may open in June in Stage 2., and massage therapists and estheticians in Stage 3 in July or August. https://www.maine.gov/covid19/restartingmaine

March 25: The Governor issued an order Tuesday afternoon that includes heavier restrictions on Maine businesses and groups as a means to further urge social distancing to prevent the spread of the pandemic illness. Effective March 25 at 12:01 a.m., the Governor has mandated that "all non-essential businesses close their physical locations that are public facing, meaning those that allow customer, vendor, or other in-person contact." Additionally, Governor Mills has ordered the closure of non-essential businesses that require more than 10 people to be in a space where physical distancing is not practical. This mandated closure of businesses will remain in place for a period of fourteen days, until April 8. https://www.wabi.tv/content/news/Governor-Mills-issues-order-mandating-14-day-closure-of-non-essential-businesses-569064071.html

Maryland

March 15: On March 9, 2021, Governor Hogan issued Executive Order 21-03-09-01, stating that the occupancy limits for personal care services will be lifted March 12, 2021 (section III, (a)). Howver, face coverings, social distancing, and other safety protocols will remain in place. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Gatherings-20th-AMENDED-3.9.21.pdf

November 20: Governor Hogan issued Executive Order 20-11-10-01 that orders all beauty salons, barbershops, massage establishments, and businesses offering esthetic or nail services to operate on an appointment-only basis and to not exceed 50 percent maximum occupancy. The order also requires all persons in Maryland to wear a face covering when inside public spaces and when outside and unable to maintain six feet of distance. Individuals may temporarily remove a face covering for services that require access to the face, mouth, or head. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/EO-11.10.20.pdf

August 10: The Montgomery County Council passed Executive Order 087-20, allowing personal services to open beginning August 5, including massage therapy, skin care services, and waxing. https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/council/Resources/Files/agenda/col/2020/20200804/20200804_8-10.pdf

July 31: On July 29, 2020, Governor Hogan issued Executive Order 20-07-29-01, allowing personal service establishments to remain open. Beauty salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments, and establishments providing esthetic or nail services must operate at 50% occupancy and on an appointment-only basis. Employees must clean and disinfect areas in which services were performed in accordance with guidance from the CDC and MDH. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Gatherings-10th-AMENDED-7.29.20.pdf

July 23: Governor Larry Hogan issued a mandatory mask order. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Masks-and-Physical-Distancing-4.15.20.pdf

June 5: Governor Hogan announced that personal service establishments, including beauty salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments, and establishments that provide esthetic services or nail technician services, may resume business operations June 5, 2020, per Executive Order 20-06-03. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Gatherings-EIGHTH-AMENDED-6.3.20.pdf

May 22: On May 13, 2020, Governor Hogan amended and reinstated Order 20-05-13, allowing businesses that provide certain personal services to reopen May 15, 2020. Beauty salons and barbershops may open, but only to provide hair services. Services are to be by appointment only, and all staff and customers are required to wear face coverings. The number of persons allowed in a personal service business is not to exceed 50 percent of the establishment's maximum capacity. After providing services, employees must clean and disinfect the area in which services were provided in accordance with guidance from the CDC and MDH. https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Gatherings-SIXTH-AMENDED-5.13.20.pdf

May 19: Maryland Governor Larry Hogan amended the order of March 30, 2020, extending the closure of nonessential businesses, including barbershops, beauty salons, and other establishments that provide esthetic services such as hair or nail services. The order is in effect through May 30, 2020. https://health.maryland.gov/massage/Documents/exeorder58.pdf

March 31: Maryland will be under a "stay-at-home" order beginning at 8:00 p.m. March 30. Gov. Larry Hogan made the announcement the same morning in an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The executive order instructs residents to stay at home and only travel outside their residence for a handful of reasons. They include going out to obtain medical supplies or services, picking up groceries or other necessary products, and going out to public spaces to engage in activities. Hogan said any Maryland resident who violates the order will be convicted of a misdemeanor and subject to up to a year in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.https://www.delmarvanow.com/story/news/local/maryland/2020/03/30/maryland-coronavirus-stay-home-order-lockdown-hogan-governor/5087239002/

March 27: Regarding programs that lead to licensure, the US Department of Education has left the decision to accept clock-hours in a distance education format up to the applicable licensure body.https://mhec.maryland.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Distance%20Ed.pdf

March 25: Maryland Governor Larry Hogan issued an order Monday for nonessential businesses to close Monday evening in a more aggressive attempt to quash the coronavirus pandemic. https://www.wbaltv.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-maryland-governor-larry-hogan-nonessential-business-closure/31898551#

Massachusetts

June 7: All remaining COVID-19 restrictions were lifted May 29, 2021. Also, to be in line with updated CDC face covering guidance, non-vaccinated individuals are advised to continue wearing face masks and to continue distancing in most settings. However, fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear a face covering or social distance indoors or outdoors except in certain situations. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-to-lift-covid-restrictions-may-29-state-to-meet-vaccination-goal-by-beginning-of-june

March 3: On February 8, 2021, Massachusetts updated their Safety Standards and Checklist for close-contact personal services. Businesses may operate at up to 40% of their maximum occupancy limit. Workers should change into a clean smock or gown between each customer and consider using disposable capes and smocks. Reusable capes, towels, and gowns should be laundered between each use. Social distancing protocols remain in place, and face coverings for staff and clients are still required. Clients may remove a face covering temporarily for services involving the face. Review the full checklist in the provided document. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services

January 5: Governor Baker issued COVID-19 Order No. 59, applying temporary capacity restrictions on businesses. Effective December 26, 2020, through January 10, 2021, businesses offering close-contact personal services must operate at 25% maximum occupancy. Workers and staff are excluded from the occupancy count. https://www.mass.gov/doc/covid-19-order-59/download

December 10: On December 8, 2020, Governor Baker issued COVID-19 Order No. 58 that returns all municipalities back to Step 1 of Phase III of the Commonwealth's Reopening Plan. Close contact personal care services can remain open. The order is effective December 13, 2020, and will remain in effect until rescinded. https://www.mass.gov/doc/covid-19-order-58/download

November 10: An updated Safety Standards and Checklist: Close Contact Personal Services was issued October 5, 2020, for businesses to follow in low-risk municipalities. "Close contact personal services" are now defined as hair salons; barbershops; hair removal services; massage, body, and energy therapies; skin and nail services; and makeup salons and applications. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services

September 15: Businesses offering close contact personal services may resume operations in Step 2 of Phase II. Per COVID-19 Order No. 35, services permitted to reopen in Step 2 include massage therapy, body treatments, Eastern treatment, energy therapies, waxing, threading, peels and facials, nail care, and makeup application. Businesses offering these services must following these guidelines: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services. The safety checklist requires face coverings for all customers and workers. Workers must wear gloves, gowns or smocks, and prescription glasses, safety glasses or goggles. Workstations must be spaced out at least six feet apart--physical partitions may be used to separate workstations when this is not possible (partitions must be at least six feet in height). https://www.mass.gov/doc/order-preparing-for-phase-ii-reopening/download

July 23: Governor Baker issued a mask mandate for those situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. https://www.mass.gov/doc/may-1-2020-masks-and-face-coverings/download

June 24: Governor Baker announced that close contact personal services may resume in Step 2 of Phase 2 on June 22, 2020. In addition to following the required guidelines (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services), members must also submit a Control Plan (https://www.mass.gov/doc/covid-19-reopening-control-plan-template/download) to the state outlining how they will comply with the safety standards. https://www.mass.gov/news/reopening-massachusetts-baker-polito-administration-initiates-transition-to-step-two-of-second

June 10: Businesses offering close-contact personal services may resume operations in Step 2 of Phase II. A start date is yet to be determined for Step 2. Per COVID-19 Order No. 35 issued by Governor Baker, services permitted to reopen in Phase II, Step 2 include massage therapy, body treatments, Eastern treatment, energy therapies, waxing services and threading, peels and facials, nail care services, and makeup application services. Guidelines have been issued for these businesses: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services. https://www.mass.gov/doc/order-preparing-for-phase-ii-reopening/download

June 9: Governor Baker provided updates for Reopening Massachusetts: Close-contact personal services that include massage therapy and nail salons are scheduled to open in Phase 2. Guidelines have not been issued yet. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-massachusetts

May 20: Reopening Massachusetts, the Baker-Polito Administration’s plan to safely reopen the state’s economy and ease social restrictions, allows hair salons and barbershops to reopen in Phase 1 on May 25, 2020. Businesses must follow the safety standards developed by the state at the following link: https://www.mass.gov/lists/safety-standards-for-hair-salons-and-barbershops. Other personal services, including nail salons, day spas and massage therapy establishments, may reopen in Phase 2. A date and safety standards have yet to be determined. https://www.mass.gov/doc/guidance-for-industries-on-the-reopening-plan/download

March 23: Governor Charlie Baker on Monday, March 23, ordered all non-essential businesses and organizations to close for at least two weeks, but said he would not issue a stay-at-home order. https://www.wdrb.com/news/gov-beshear-non-life-sustaining-ky-businesses-will-be-closing/article_8b95520e-6e1a-11ea-98d2-d76e443748f6.html

Michigan

June 7: Effective June 1, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals are exempt from the statewide mask mandate and no longer have to wear a face covering in indoor venues. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-560465--,00.html

January 13: The Michigan Department of Health issued new guidelines requiring masks for all services, effective January 16 through January 31. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-549437--,00.html

December 22: On December 18, 2020, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a Gatherings and Face Mask Order, extending the December 9 order that expired December 20. Gatherings in facilities offering nonessential personal care services are only permitted if the service does not involve the removal of a face mask. All services must be by appointment-only and gatherings in waiting areas are prohibited. The order takes effect December 21, 2020, and will remain in effect through January 15, 2021. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-547899--,00.html

December 8: On December 7, 2020, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a Gatherings and Face Mask Order, which extends the November 15 order stating that gatherings in facilities offering nonessential personal care services, including hair, nail, massage, and other similar services, are only permitted if the service does not involve the removal of a face mask. All services must be by appointment-only and gatherings in waiting areas are prohibited. The order takes effect December 9, 2020, and will remain in effect through December 20, 2020. The previous order expires December 8, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-546790--,00.html

November 20: On November 15, 2020, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued Emergency Order MCL 333.2253 that affects facilities offering non-essential personal care services, including hair, nail, massage, spa, and similar services. Gatherings at these businesses are only permitted so long as patrons do not remove their face masks. Gathering in waiting areas is prohibited. All services must be by appointment-only. This order takes effect November 18, 2020, through December 8, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/documents/coronavirus/2020.10.29_Gatherings_and_Masks_order_-_signed_706520_7.pdf

November 18: Governor Whitmer issued a new Emergency Order that is in effect from November 18 to December 8, 2020. Services that allow masks to be temporarily removed are prohibited. All services must be provided by appointment only and gatherings in lobbies are prohibited. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-545136--,00.html

October 23: The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued Emergency Rules for employers on October 14, 2020, to mitigate risk of exposure to and contracting COVID-19 in the workplace. See industry-specific guidelines for personal care services on page 7 of the linked document. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MIEOG/2020/10/14/file_attachments/1570997/MIOSHA%20Emergency%20Rules%2010-14-20.pdf

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued an Emergency Order that restricts gathering sizes and requires face coverings in public spaces through October 30, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/documents/coronavirus/DRAFT_MDHHS_epidemic_order_-_Gatherings_masks_bars_sports_-_FINAL_704284_7.pdf

July 14: Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order No. 2020-147 on July 10, 2020, requiring individuals to wear a face covering when in any indoor space and when outside if six feet cannot be maintained between others. The requirement does not apply "to those receiving a service for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service." In addition, the EO requires businesses to post signs at their entrance instructing customers of their obligation to wear a face covering while inside. Review the new guidelines here: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/LARA_COVID-19_Personal_Care_Services_Guide_Final_07-03-2020_695633_7.pdf. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MIEOG/2020/07/10/file_attachments/1492866/EO%202020-147%20Emerg%20order%20-%20Masks.pdf

July 7: Updated guidelines have been issued for Personal Care Services. It is now required to disinfect high-contact surfaces after every use and to close off areas where a sick person has been for 24 hours before cleaning. https://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/LARA_COVID-19_Personal_Care_Services_Guide_Final_07-03-2020_695633_7.pdf

June 22: Personal Care Service Guidelines are posted under cosmetology only on the LARA COVID-19 page. https://www.michigan.gov/documents/leo/COVID-19_Workplace_Guidelines_for_Personal_Care_Services_FINAL_6.8.20_693433_7.pdf

June 5: Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-114 opening massage therapy, esthetics, hair salons, barbershops, and nail professionals as of June 10, 2020, in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The rest of the state opens June 15, 2020. Guidelines are issued in section 11 of the Executive Order. Industry-specific guidelines and public health guidelines will be posted shortly. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MIEOG/2020/06/05/file_attachments/1467520/EO%202020-114.pdf

May 26: Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-69, closing businesses offering non-essential personal care services including hair, nail, massage, and traditional spa services through May 28, 2020. This does not include services necessary for medical treatment as determined by a licensed medical provider. https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-527830--,00.html

Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-99, extending the state of emergency through June 19, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-530039--,00.html

May 8: Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-77, extending the stay at home order through May 28, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-528460--,00.html

May 4: Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-67 and Executive Order 2020-68, clarifying that a state of emergency and disaster remain in effect across the state of Michigan through May 28, 2020. The governor will evaluate the continuing need for the orders prior to expiration, and terminate the states of emergency and disaster if the threat and danger has passed. https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90640-527721--,00.html

April 29: Executive Order 2020-59 extended Governor Whitmer's stay at home order through May 15, 2020. https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-526894--,00.html

April 10: Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-42 on April 9, 2020, announcing the extension of Michigan's “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order through April 30, 2020. The order requires all workers who are not necessary to sustain or protect life to stay home. https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/michigan/2020/04/09/michigan-extends-stay-home-order-to-april-30-what-you-need-to-know/?utm_content=19985685

March 26: Executive Order 2020-20 was issued, which states: "To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, protect the public health, and provide essential protections to vulnerable Michiganders, it is reasonable and necessary to impose limited and temporary restrictions on the use of places of public accommodation." The Executive Order clarified an earlier order that imposed such restrictions by clarifying which facilities are deemed "non-essential." The order continues: "Beginning as soon as possible but no later than March 22, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., and continuing until April 13, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., the following places of public accommodation are closed to ingress, egress, use, and occupancy by members of the public ... Non-essential personal care services, [including] hair, nail, tanning, massage, traditional spa, tattoo, body art, and piercing services, and similar personal care services that require individuals to be within six feet of each other. This does not include services necessary for medical treatment as determined by a licensed medical provider." https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-522576--,00.html?fbclid=IwAR1cziSB8ViFeOyBfWyRlrMRSMoB91axCqk0iSij99hYvHbUOFWoE29sBJs

March 20: Gymnasiums, fitness centers, recreation centers, indoor sports facilities, indoor exercise facilities, exercise studios and spas all need to be shut down between March 16 and March 30.https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-521789--,00.html

Minnesota

May 14: On May 13, 2021, Governor Walz announced the end of Minnesota’s face covering requirement in nearly all settings. In addition, effective May 28, 2021, businesses will no longer be subject to occupancy limits. https://staysafe.mn.gov/

November 20: On November 18, 2020, Governor Walz issued Emergency Executive Order 20-99, affecting occupancy capacity at businesses offering personal care services. Occupancy must not exceed 50 percent maximum capacity. The order is effective November 20, 2020, through December 18, 2020. https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-99%20Final%20%28003%29_tcm1055-454294.pdf

October 16: Governor Walz extended the COVID-19 Peacetime Emergency through November 12, 2020. https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-92%20Seventh%20Extension%20of%20PTE%20Filed%20%28002%29_tcm1055-449844.pdf

July 27: Stay Safe Minnesota recently updated the Preparedness Plan Requirements Guidance for Personal Care Services on July 22, 2020. Review the new safety protocols in the linked document. https://mn.gov/deed/assets/personal-care-industry-guidance-acc_tcm1045-432896.pdf

July 23: Governor Walz issued Executive Order 20-81 on July 22, 2020, requiring masks to be worn in indoor spaces and outdoor spaces where social distancing cannot be achieved. This order goes into effect at midnight on Friday, July 24. Masks can be temporarily removed for personal care services, including facials, beard trims, and face massages. https://www.leg.state.mn.us/archive/execorders/20-81.pdf

June 2: Governor Walz issued Executive Order 20-63 on May 27, 2020, allowing businesses providing personal care services, including massage therapy establishments, spas, salons, nail salons, cosmetology salons, esthetician salons, advanced practice esthetician salons, eyelash salons, and barbershops, to resume operations June 1, 2020. Businesses reopening should follow the state's industry-specific safety guidelines found here: https://mn.gov/deed/assets/personal-care-industry-guidance-acc_tcm1045-432896.pdf. https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-63%20Final_tcm1055-433759.pdf

May 22: Stay Safe Minnesota is entering Phase 2. Businesses offering personal care services as defined in Executive Order 20-08 (https://www.leg.state.mn.us/archive/execorders/20-08.pdf) may resume operations June 1, 2020 according to the plan available at https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/stay-safe-mn/stay-safe-plan.jsp. These businesses include massage therapy establishments, spas, salons, nail salons, cosmetology salons, esthetics salons, advanced practice esthetics salons, eyelash salons, and barbershops. Guidelines are available at https://mn.gov/deed/assets/personal-care-industry-guidance-ACC_tcm1045-432896.pdf.

May 14: Governor Tim Walz signed Executive Order 20-56, which provides guidance on when massage therapists, estheticians, and cosmetologists might be able to return to work. Sections 7(a) and (b) on page 5 extend the stay-at-home order through May 31, 2020, and specific profession guidance will be revealed to the public by May 20, 2020, with the intention to open these businesses on June 1, 2020. https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-56%20Final_tcm1055-431921.pdf

May 7: Governor Tim Walz signed Executive Order 20-48, which extends the stay at home order through May 17, 2020. Barbershops and salons may open to sell retail products, not services, provided they have protocols in place that can be found on page 20 at Section 8(b). https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-48%20Final_tcm1055-430499.pdf

March 27: Tim Walz, Governor of the State of Minnesota, issued an Executive Order closing the following business: tanning and body art establishments, tattoo and piercing parlors, businesses offering massage therapy or similar bodywork, spas, salons, nail salons, cosmetology salons, esthetician salons, advanced practice esthetician salons, eyelash salons, and barber shops. This includes, but is not limited to, all salons and shops licensed by the Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners and the Minnesota Board of Barber Examiners.

March 23: Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 20-08, clarifying the types of businesses and places of public accommodation subject to closure per Executive Order 20-04. The executive order clarifies that the closure order applies to salons, barbershops, and other similar establishments. https://mn.gov/boards/assets/EO-20-08_Clarifying%20Public%20Accommodations_tcm21-423750_tcm21-423783.pdf

Mississippi

March 3: Governor Reeves issued Executive Order 1549, rescinding the statewide mask mandate. There remain rules for Close Personal Services on page 2, section 5 of the order, encouraging mask wearing and handwashing. https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/executiveorders/ExecutiveOrders/1549.pdf

December 18: On December 9, 2020, Governor Reeves issued Executive Order 1536 that requires individuals to wear a face covering when inside indoor spaces open to the public or when it is not possible to maintain six feet of social distancing. This order does not apply to those receiving a service that requires the temporary removal of a face covering for a service involving the face. This order is effective December 11, 2020, through January 15, 2020, and applies to over 60 counties. View page 2 of the linked document to see if your county is included. https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/executiveorders/ExecutiveOrders/1536.pdf

November 18: Governor Reeves issued Executive Order 1530 that requires individuals to wear a face covering when in indoor spaces open to the public or when it is not possible to maintain six feet of social distancing. This order is effective through December 11, 2020, and applies to the following counties: Benton, Carroll, Covington, DeSoto, Forrest, Harrison, Hinds, Humphreys, Itawamba, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Leflore, Lee, Madison, Marshall, Montgomery, Pontotoc, Rankin, Tate, and Yalobusha. Services where it is not practical or feasible to wear a face covering are exempt from this order. https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/resources/9924.pdf

August 10: Governor Reeves issued Executive Order 1516 mandating that masks be worn in businesses and outside where six-foot social distancing cannot be achieved. Masks are allowed to temporarily be removed for services. https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/executiveorders/ExecutiveOrders/1516.pdf

July 28: Governor Reeves issued revised guidelines for "salons, barbershops, and other personal care and personal grooming facilities." https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/resources/9924.pdf

July 27: On July 10, 2020, Governor Reeves announced additional social distancing measures for 13 counties identified as "hotspots." Individuals must wear masks when attending public gatherings or in a shopping environment, and social gatherings are limited to no more than 10 indoors and 20 outdoors in the following counties: Claiborne, Desoto, Grenada, Harrison, Hinds, Jackson, Jefferson, Madison, Quitman, Rankin, Sunflower, Washington, and Wayne counties. https://mailchi.mp/585c535a47d3/governor-reeves-issuesadditional-social-distancing-measures-for-13-counties-to-protect-public-health?e=af2ac1b3c1

May 18: Governor Tate Reeves signed Executive Order 1480 (EO 1480) on May 8, 2020, which allows "salons, barbershops, and other personal care and personal grooming facilities" to reopen subject to limitations outlined in EO 1480. https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/executiveorders/ExecutiveOrders/1480.pdf

May 14: Governor Tate Reeves announced that salons and barbershops will be allowed to resume operations on May 11, 2020, in the latest step in reopening Mississippi's economy amid the coronavirus pandemic. Businesses must meet cleaning and social distancing guidelines to operate. View the complete list of safety protocols here: https://us11.campaign-archive.com/?u=08cb3e52aa1308600f84d49ea&id=57dc2819c6

April 29: Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves issued Executive Order No. 1477 on April 24, 2020, which ordered spas, salons, barbershops, and all other personal care and personal grooming facilities to remain closed to the public. However, these businesses may continue minimum operations limited to retail sales by drive-through, curbside, and/or delivery services.

March 20: The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) advises that given the ongoing spread of COVID-19 in Mississippi and the shortage of protective medical equipment, elective medical procedures and non-essential medical visits must be postponed at this time. The following measures should be taken:

• Physicians, hospitals, and medical centers must defer elective surgical and diagnostic procedures until COVID-19 spread has been diminished and the supply of protective medical equipment is restored.
• Physicians and providers should reschedule non-urgent medical appointments for a later date.
• Dentists must delay non-emergency or routine dental procedures.
• Patients should reschedule any non-essential procedures, surgeries, or medical visits until the threat of COVID-19 is diminished.
• These measures will protect patients and health-care professionals by minimizing potential exposure to COVID-19 and preserving valuable protective equipment.

Follow MSDH by email and social media at HealthyMS.com/connect.

Missouri

November 24: On November 19, 2020, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 20-19, declaring that a state of emergency continues to exist within the state of Missouri. The governor also issued a Public Health Warning that includes personal behavior, business, travel, and local government advisories at the following link: https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/pdf/advisory-20201119.pdf. https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2020/eo19

August 10: Governor Mike Parson extended the state of emergency through December 30, 2020. https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2020/eo12

June 18: Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri will fully reopen and enter Phase 2 of its Show Me Strong Recovery plan on June 16, 2020. Missouri does not have statewide restrictions at this time, and any restrictions that were in place were lifted yesterday. Check with your county and comply with any mandates or restrictions they may have. https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-parson-announces-missouri-will-fully-reopen-enter-phase-2-recovery

May 26: Governor Parson extended the state of emergency through June 15, 2020. https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2020/eo10

March 31: Governor Michael L. Parson declared a state of emergency in Missouri due to COVID-19. https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/Library/Reference/Orders/2020/20-02.pdf

Montana

March 3: Governor Gianforte rescinded Executive Orders 2-2020 and 3-2020, ending the statewide mask mandate. Mask mandates may still be required in counties and cities. https://covid19.mt.gov/_docs/EO_2-2021.pdf

February 16: On February 12, 2021, Governor Gianforte issued Executive Order 2-2021, announcing that the phased approach to reopening Montana is no longer in force. The statewide mask mandate has been lifted, though wearing face coverings is still encouraged. https://governor.mt.gov/_docs/Directives/Directive-2-12-2021-EO.pdf

July 16: Governor Bullock issued a directive July 15, 2020, to implement Executive Orders 2-2020 and 3-2020. Individuals are now required to wear face coverings in indoor spaces and outdoor gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Montana.

June 12: The Montana Business Adaptability Grant has been created in response to the costs small businesses have incurred adapting to COVID-19.  The program will provide reimbursement for COVID-19 expenses related to keeping staff and customers safe—from the purchase of personal protective equipment to resources needed for staff to work remotely. The maximum reimbursement per applicant is up to $5,000. Follow the link provided to learn more and to apply. https://www.covidreliefmt.org/submit/167241/business-adaptability-grant

May 1: On April 22, 2020, Governor Bullock announced an Executive Order providing guidance for the phased reopening of the state of Montana and establishing conditions for Phase One. Per the order, salons and massage fall under “personal care services.” Phase One offers strict reopening guidelines for personal care service providers on page 18 of the linked document. https://covid19.mt.gov/Portals/223/Documents/04-22-20%20Directive%20and%20Appx%20-%20Reopening%20Phase%20One.pdf?ver=2020-04-22-124954-977

March 25: Governor Steve Bullock on Tuesday extended his executive order regarding the coronavirus by two weeks, setting a new deadline of April 10 for closures of schools, restaurants, bars, gyms, and other entities. He also placed mandates on "social distancing," prohibiting nonessential social and recreational gatherings outside of homes of more than 10 people. https://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/2020/03/24/number-coronavirus-cases-montana-now-46/2906721001/

Nebraska

February 1: Governor Ricketts announced that Nebraska is moving from the Blue Phase to the Green Phase of its COVID-19 response plan on January 30, 2021. As a result, new Directed Health Measures (DHMs) have been issued. The biggest change affects maximum capacity limits for indoor gatherings, which increase from 75% to 100%. View the revised DHMs here: http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx. https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-announces-new-directed-health-measures-take-effect-saturday-0

January 5: Governor Ricketts announced that all Nebraska counties will move from the Yellow Phase to the Blue Phase beginning December 24, 2020, through January 31, 2021. View the new Directed Health Measures (DHMs) for your county here: http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx. http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Gov-Ricketts-Announces-New-DHMs-to-Take-Effect-on-Thursday.aspx

November 18: The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services issued a new Directed Health Measure (DHM) that offers new guidance for beauty and nail salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments, and any other indoor businesses where staff and clients are within six feet of each other for 15 or more consecutive minutes. The DHM is effective through November 30, 2020, and requires the use of masks that cover the nose and mouth for all staff, practitioners, and clients. Clients may remove their mask while receiving a service on the areas of the face. See page 5 of the linked document. http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-November13.pdf

September 1: Some Nebraska counties have entered Phase 4 of reopening, which will continue through September 30, 2020. Use the provided link to check which phase your county is in, and follow the appropriate Directed Health Measures (DHMs). http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx

June 24: Governor Ricketts issued the latest Directed Health Measure on June 15, 2020, moving most counties to Phase 3 as of June 22, 2020. Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick counties will move to Phase 2  on June 22, which allows for beauty/nail salons, barbershops, and massage therapy services to open in these counties. In Phase 3, clients are allowed to remove their mask for services on faces, but must return to wearing the mask when the service is over, and businesses can reopen at 75% capacity. In Phase 2, masks on practitioners and clients are mandated, with a total of 25 customers (excluding staff) or 50% capacity, whichever is greater.

May 26: Governor Ricketts issued another Directed Health Measure on May 21 that allows for the opening of barbershops, salons, and massage therapy services as of June 1, 2020. This applies to all counties except Dakota, Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick. This Health Measure allows for salons, barbershops, and massage therapy services to be limited to the greater of 25 people (excluding staff) or 50% maximum occupancy. Practitioners must wear masks. https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-announces-new-directed-health-measures-june

May 4: Governor Ricketts offered Directed Health Measures on May 4 that allows beauty/nail salons, barbershops, and massage therapy services to open on May 4 in the Local Health Districts: Douglas County Health District, Sarpy/Cass Department of Health, East Central District Health Department, Four Corners Health Department, Loup Basis Public Health Department, North Central District Health Department, Panhandle Public Health District, Southeast Public Health Department, and Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department. Both the practitioner and client must wear masks. https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-announces-upcoming-changes-directed-health-measures-deploys-additional-resources

March 31: Governor Pete Ricketts signed an emergency declaration: "I am declaring a State of Emergency in Nebraska as we continue to work to be the best prepared state in the nation for COVID-19,” said Governor Ricketts. “All across the state, individuals, businesses, employers, and churches are stepping up to make plans to mitigate the impact of the virus. There is a role for each one of us in this as we work together to keep people healthy.”https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-issues-emergency-declaration-covid-19

Nevada

July 29: Nevada will adopt the CDC’s latest mask guidance effective Friday, July 30, 2021. The guidance recommends everyone, including fully vaccinated individuals, wear a mask in public indoor settings in counties with substantial or high transmission. Twelve of Nevada’s 17 counties are currently substantial or high transmission: Carson, Churchill, Clark, Douglas, Elko, Esmeralda, Lincoln, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, Washoe, and White Pine county. PDF.

May 14: On May 13, 2021, the Nevada Health Response issued a press release announcing that the state will adopt new guidance from the CDC regarding face masks. Fully vaccinated individuals in Nevada no longer need to wear a mask in most indoor and outdoor locations. PDF.

April 27: On April 19, 2021, Governor Sisolak issued Directive 044, solidifying the transfer of COVID-19 mitigation measures to local authorities effective May 1, 2021. The directive also documented the state's goal of returning all businesses back to 100% capacity by June 1, 2021. https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Emergency-Directive-044.4-19-21.pdf

March 8: Nevada's COVID-19 Task Force released its transition plan detailing how mitigation efforts will move from the state to local authorities this spring. The transition will begin May 1, 2021, at the earliest. https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/3.4-TRANSITION-TO-LOCAL-PLAN.pdf

February 16: Nevada updated their Roadmap to Recovery (see link for full details). The state is lessening mitigation measures February 15, 2021, and again March 15, 2021. A transition to location authority will begin in May; however, a statewide mask mandate and social distancing protocols will remain effective under Directive 024. https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/NV-Roadmap-to-Recovery-Feb-2021.pdf

November 24: Effective November 24, 2020, Nevada will enter a three-week statewide pause with new restrictions outlined in the linked document. The pause does not affect current health and safety protocols for businesses offering personal care services. Face coverings must be worn at every business, venue, and gathering space (public or private). Face coverings must also be worn when near other people who are not in your household. https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/NV-SW-Pause-11-24-Summary-Graphic.pdf

August 10: Governor Sisolak issued Directive 029, extending the March 12, 2020 Declaration of Emergency until the emergency is over. http://gov.nv.gov/News/Emergency_Orders/2020/2020-07-31_-_COVID-19_Declaration_of_Emergency_Directive_029/

July 16: Directive 024 requires all individuals to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or face covering when in a public space. The directive does not apply to individuals obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which the temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service.

May 29: Nevada has issued industry specific guidance. Guidelines for massage therapists and massage establishments can be found starting at page 41 of the following document, and for esthesticians and skin care establishments starting at page 46. Read the guidelines here.

May 27: Governor Steve Sisolak announced in a press release that massage therapy establishments, salons, and other businesses that provide esthetics or other skincare services such as facials, hair removal, eyelash extensions, and eyebrow threading may reopen May 29, 2020, under strict protocols and social distancing guidelines as recommended by LEAP (https://www.diversifynevada.com/covid-19-reopening-guidance-and-assistance/reopening-guidance/) and the Nevada Board of Cosmetology (https://www.diversifynevada.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Beauty.pdf). Read the press release here.

May 8: Governor Steve Sisolak issued Phase 1 reopening guidelines that stated barbershops, hair and nail salons, and medically prescribed massage therapy are allowed to open Saturday, May 9, 2020. Spas and massage establishments remain closed. Those opening MUST wear face coverings, and partitions or walls between workstations are "strongly encouraged." If no partitions are between the workstations, the business MUST only use every other workstation so that there is 6 feet between occupied workstations. Customers may be accepted by appointment only, and customers waiting for an appointment must wait outside and practice social distancing. Stylists must wear face coverings, and customers should wear face coverings "to the extent practicable." https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Roadmap-to-Recovery-Phase-One-Initial-Guidance.pdf

May 4: Governor Sisolak issued Directive 016, extending the Stay at Home measures until May 15, 2020, and relaxing certain restrictions on retail, faith activities, and leisure activities. https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Governor-Sisolak-Directive-016-Guidance-4-29-20.pdf

April 2: Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak issued a stay-at-home order April 1, 2020, which will remain in effect until April 30, 2020, and extended the nonessential business closures. Nonessential businesses include those that promote recreational social gathering activities, or promote extended periods of public interaction where the risk of transmission of COVID-19 is high. This includes spas, hairdressers, barbers, nail salons, massage not provided by a physical therapist, waxing, and other cosmetic services. Download PDF

March 27: At the March 19, 2020, emergency board meeting, the board members of the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology voted to temporarily approve distance-learning education for currently registered beauty school students and licensed beauty schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. The temporary distance-learning approval is only active during Governor Sisolak's directive that all non-essential businesses close for 30 days. Please follow this link to review the detailed guidelines: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lr-iOW3_pRwQ8l6m0mGrSc0WXByJd_OM/view

March 23: The Nevada governor's office released a list Wednesday, March 18, of "essential" businesses in the state that are to remain open and the "non-essential" sectors that the governor recommended close in support of COVID-19 social distancing. Beauty and personal care services and facilities, including but not limited to barber shops, beauty, tanning, waxing hair salons, and nail salons and spas, are considered non-essential. "Health care services" are considered essential, although massage is not specifically mentioned. https://www.fox5vegas.com/coronavirus/what-businesses-are-essential-nevada-governor-s-office-releases-list/article_740954de-6954-11ea-91ed-bfd1f78f40a5.html

New Hampshire

November 23: On November 19, 2020, Governor Sununu issued Emergency Order #74 that requires all persons in New Hampshire to wear masks or face coverings over their noses and mouths any time they are in public spaces—indoors or outdoors—where they are unable to maintain a physical distance of at least six feet. The order is effective November 20, 2020, through January 15, 2021. This order does not apply to any person who is receiving a service that requires the temporary removal of a face covering. https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt336/files/documents/emergency-order-74.pdf

October 16: Governor Sununu issued Executive Order #70, which extends Executive Order #52 through November 15, 2020. Executive Order #52 issues public health guidance for businesses, advises the public that they are safer at home, and contains the Safer at Home plan that outlines the steps to gradually reopen New Hampshire's economy in multiple phases. https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt336/files/documents/emergency-order-70.pdf

August 10: Governor Sununu extended the emergency order through September 1, 2020. https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt336/files/2020-07/emergency-order-61.pdf

May 15: Governor Sununu issued Emergency Order 40 on May 1, 2020. Massage therapists are still closed, but the order allows "Cosmetology - Barbershops and Salons" to reopen on May 11, 2020. Mandatory protocols can be found on page 41 of the Emergency Order. The order also extends the stay at home order through May 31, 2020. https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt336/files/documents/emergency-order-40.pdf

May 1: Under New Hampshire’s Stay at Home 2.0 Plan, the following professions have been permitted to reopen. Effective May 11, 2020, barbers, hair salons, and other cosmetology businesses may open their doors to employees and clients to resume in-person services, so long as they comply with the following guidelines. https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt336/files/documents/emergency-order-40.pdf

March 31: On Thursday, March 26, 2020, Governor Christopher T. Sununu issued Emergency Order #17, requiring non-essential businesses to close and Granite State citizens to stay at home. The order takes effect at 11:59 p.m. on March 27, 2020, and lasts until May 4, 2020. View the full list of essential businesses here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news-media/emergency-orders/documents/emergency-order-17.pdf

New Jersey

June 8: With all COVID-19 capacity restrictions on businesses and gathering limits having been lifted due to the continued improvement of New Jersey’s public health metrics, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 244 on June 4, 2021, ending the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-244.pdf

June 7: Administrative Order No. 2020-10, issued April 27, 2020, prohibited licensed independent contractors from offering personal care services in their own homes, the homes of others, or in any facility or business setting. As of June 1, 2021, these prohibitions have been lifted. https://nj.gov/governor/news/ao/docs/AO2021-2.pdf?fbclid=IwAR2FGMD9VUhxhOtwoEh5iILXoq3VYe9k5btg0aDnwn9f7BipREVz2PI9MQc

March 15: On March 11, 2021, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order No. 230, stating businesses offering personal care services must limit occupancy to 50% of the stated maximum capacity. However, this excludes the facility’s employees. See page 11 of the attached document. https://www.nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-230.pdf

February 9: On February 3, 2021, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order No. 219, which increases the maximum occupancy for businesses offering personal care services from 25% to 35%, effective February 5, 2021. https://www.nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-219.pdf

December 1: Businesses offering personal care services must limit occupancy to 25 percent maximum capacity, per Executive Order No. 194. https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-194.pdf

November 24: On November 12, 2020, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order No. 195, granting permission to counties to decide the hours of operation for personal care service businesses. Per the order, counties cannot restrict the hours between 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The order will remain in effect until revoked or modified. https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-195.pdf

October 15: An administrative order was issued preventing in-home massage or cosmetology work. Both professions can only work in establishments. https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/Documents/DCA-AO.pdf

August 10: Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 157 allowing masks to temporarily be removed for services such as facials or beard shaves. https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-157.pdf

July 16: On July 8, 2020, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order No. 163 and announced a mandatory requirement for all individuals to wear face coverings in outdoor public spaces when it is not practicable to maintain a distance of six feet from others.

June 15: Per Executive Order No. 154 issued June 13, 2020, personal care businesses may resume business operations June 22, 2020, including beauty salons, barbershops, cosmetology salons, day spas (excluding saunas, steam rooms, and shared bathing facilities), medical spas, hair braiding shops, massage therapy establishments, and nail salons. The Division of Consumer Affairs issued DCA Administrative Order No. 2020-09, comprehensive standards for personal care businesses to follow at http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20200613/34/55/d5/c3/a236d5db6071d4381b57705c/DCA_AO_2020-09.pdf. Among the comprehensive standards, services must be scheduled by appointment only, and stations must be spaced six feet apart, unless separated by physical barriers. Temperature checks and face coverings are required by employees and clients. A client may remove their face covering only if a service requires it; however, the service provider must wear a mask, face shield, and use either goggles or a table shield under such circumstances. https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-154.pdf

June 11: Per the Business.NJ.gov FAQ, New Jersey hair salons and barbershops may reopen June 22, 2020. The FAQ page indicates massage therapists still cannot return to work. https://faq.business.nj.gov/en/articles/3820777-does-my-business-need-to-be-closed

June 5: New Jersey's NJEDA Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant has been expanded. Phase 2 is open at 9:00 a.m. on June 9, 2020. For information on where to apply and who is eligible, go to https://faq.business.nj.gov/en/articles/3835237-what-is-the-status-of-the-njeda-small-business-emergency-assistance-grant-program-phase-2-application-open-tuesday-june-9-at-9-00-a-m. 

June 4: Due to the current state of emergency, the June 9, 2020 meeting of the Board of Cosmetology & Hairstyling will not be held at 124 Halsey Street, Newark, New Jersey but remotely. Pursuant to the OPMA, N.J.S.A. 10:4-9.1, notice is being provided electronically within 48 hours of the scheduled meeting. A copy of the agenda for the meeting, to the extent presently known, is accessible by clicking on the meeting tab on the left side of the webpage. Formal action may be taken at the meeting. Any member of the public wishing to attend the public session of this meeting may do so by clicking here to access the meeting. The meeting will be limited to urgent matters and those related to the COVID-19 pandemic. At this time, public comments will only be accepted in writing. Any public comment should be submitted by 5:00 PM on June 5, 2020 by emailing almeidag@dca.njoag.gov. The email should contain the name of the submitter. The Board will make its best efforts to read any comments received during the meeting.

Hair salons and barbershops can open on June 15. https://faq.business.nj.gov/en/articles/3820777-does-my-business-need-to-be-closed

April 20: New Jersey is now online for self-employed unemployment with Pandemic Unemployment benefits. If you are self-employed and are applying for unemployment benefits, please let us know how the process is going and what kind of questions they were asking regarding self-employment and income. https://myunemployment.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/assets/pdfs/UI_process_selfemployed.pdf

March 31: Due to the ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus and in the interest of protecting the safety and health of New Jersey residents, the Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy is allowing licensees to complete all the required 20 hours of continuing education (CE) online for the 2020 renewal cycle. https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/mbt/Pages/individual.aspx

March 21: All barbershops, hair salons, tattoo or piercing parlors, nail salons, hair removal services, and related personal care services will be closed to members of the public effective Saturday, March 21, 2020, at 8:00 p.m., as these services cannot be provided while maintaining social distance. www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-governor-murphy-governor-lamont-and-governor-wolf-direct

New Mexico

November 20: The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (the Department) issued a public notice and provdided clarification for massage therapists. Although the recent Public Health Order has closed in-person services for close-contact businesses—including massage therapy establishments—through November 30, 2020, the Department has suggested "massage therapists should only provide services when they are absolutely necessary for medical purposes." View the linked document on page 2 for examples of when a massage may be considered medically necessary. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/NMRLD/2020/11/17/file_attachments/1604374/FINAL%20Advisory%20Letter%20on%20Massage%20Therapy%20Services%20-%20November%2017%202020.pdf

November 16: The New Mexico Department of Health issued a Public Health Order that closes in-person services for all non-essential activities. Close-contact businesses, such as barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, spas, massage establishments, and esthetician clinics, must reduce their in-person workforce by 100% through November 30, 2020. This order essentially closes close-contact businesses from November 13, 2020, through November 30, 2020. Violations may result in penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. https://www.governor.state.nm.us/2020/11/13/n-m-hits-reset-re-enacting-most-heightened-level-of-statewide-public-health-restrictions/

October 23: The New Mexico Department of Health has extended public health emergency orders through November 13, 2020. https://mcusercontent.com/b46dcef47602a2f2d4f62bfbc/files/466b7a61-3e36-478d-baa2-51e9986350c5/101620_PHO.pdf

October 1: Close-contact businesses may operate at up to 25% of their maximum occupancy. This includes barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, spas, massage therapy establishments, and esthetician clinics. This Public Health Order takes effect September 18, 2020, and remains in effect through October 16, 2020. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/NM_20200929_DOHother+9+18+20_xxxi18.html

July 31: On July 30, 2020, Department of Health Secretary Kathyleen Kunkel issued a Public Health Order calling for close-contact businesses to operate at 25% occupancy. This includes barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, massage therapy establishments, and esthetician clinics. The order is effective July 30, 2020, through August 28, 2020. https://mcusercontent.com/b46dcef47602a2f2d4f62bfbc/files/44138f93-4175-41dc-8327-62e1efacd11e/07.30.20_PHO.pdf

July 23: Governor Grisham issued another Public Health Emergency Order further stressing the need for masks. Hair services, nail salons, barbershops, and massage therapy establishments can remain open at 25% capacity. https://www.nmhealth.org/publication/view/rules/6163/

June 11: Governor Grisham amended the Public Health Emergency Order, allowing for hair and nail salons, barbershops, and massage therapy establishments to begin operating at 25 percent occupancy June 1, 2020. Per the amended order, services must be by appointment only and waiting rooms must be closed. Further guidelines can be found here: https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/All-Together-New-Mexico-5-27-2020.pdf. https://www.newmexico.gov/2020/05/28/governor-announces-limited-reopening-for-dine-in-restaurants-indoor-malls-gyms-salons-and-more/

May 29: Department of Health Secretary Kunkel issued a new Public Health Emergency Order on May 27, 2020. Close contact businesses are closed through May 31, 2020. Guidances for "Salons, Spas, Tattoo Parlors, and Related Services" can be found here. No specific guidances for massage therapists have been issued, so please follow the guidances in the link: https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/PHO-5-26-2020.pdf. http://www.rld.state.nm.us/uploads/files/Procedures%20for%20Opening.pdf

May 13: On May 5, 2020, New Mexico Department of Health Secretary Kathyleen M. Kunkel extended the Public Health Emergency Order through May 15, 2020. All current documents issued by the Department of Health remain in effect. Nonessential businesses remain closed at this time. https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/GovernorsOffice@state.nm_.us_20200505_150440.pdf

March 27: The New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists issued an emergency waiver that grants immediate approval for distance education within New Mexico through April 30, 2020. However, practitioner programs are limited to no more than 25% of the program content online. There are several provisions and parameters regarding this waiver, so please follow the link to learn more.

March 25: New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced during a press conference Monday that she has ordered New Mexico Secretary of Health Kathy Kunkel to issue a new public health order suspending operations at non-essential businesses and non-profits in an effort to prevent further spread of COVID-19. The order is effective beginning at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday and will remain in place through April 10. https://kfoxtv.com/news/local/nm-governor-to-make-announcement-regarding-stay-at-home-instructions-monday

New York

December 17: Legislative update from AHP: New York Implements Indoor Mask Mandate or Proof of Vaccination Requirement—December 2021 COVID-19 Update

May 11: On April 27, 2021, Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.105, which removes the requirement to wear face coverings when in a public space for those who are fully vaccinated, unless in a crowded venue or setting. The order is effective through May 27, 2021. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-202105-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

December 14: On December 11, 2020, Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.81, announcing that barbershops, hair salons, spas, nail salons, cosmetologists, estheticians, and all other personal care services may resume operations in Orange Zone areas beginning December 14, 2020. Businesses must adhere to the Department of Health's guidance and no employee can provide a service without first obtaining a negative COVID-19 test result. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/EO_202.81.pdf

November 20: In a November 18, 2020, press release, Governor Cuomo announced updated COVID-19 micro-cluster focus zones in New York. Parts of Erie county will enter the Orange Zone November 20, 2020. Non-essential, high-risk businesses in the Orange Zone must close. This includes barbershops, hair salons, and businesses offering personal care services such as massage therapy, spas, cosmetology, and nail salons. Medically necessary massage may remain open. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-updated-covid-19-micro-cluster-focus-zones-2

September 15: All regions of the state have now entered Phase Four of reopening. https://forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries

September 3: Legislative Update from ABMP: New York COVID-19 Update—Updated Personal Service Guidelines. New York issued new guidelines for Personal Care Services that allow services without a mask on the client to be performed so long as the provider is wearing a face mask and a face shield, and tests negative for COVID-19 on or after September 3, 2020. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Personal_Care_Detailed_Guidelines.pdf

July 23: Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.17, requiring that face masks be worn when social distancing cannot be achieved. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20217-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

July 7: Updated Guidance for Personal Care Services includes a requirement that employees be tested for COVID-19 every two weeks for those in Phase 3 regions. This includes sole practitioners. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Personal_Care_Detailed_Guidelines.pdf. Governor Cuomo announced that New York City can move to Phase 3 on July 6, 2020. This allows for massage therapy, spas, cosmetology, and nail professionals to reopen. Services that require the client to remove their mask are prohibited. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-new-york-city-will-enter-phase-three-reopening-without-indoor-dining

June 24: Governor Cuomo announced that Mid Hudson Valley can move to Phase 3 on June 23, 2020, and Long Island to Phase 3 on June 24. Massage therapy, spas, cosmetologists, and nail professionals are allowed to reopen in Phase 3 so long as they follow the following guidelines: https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Personal_Care_Summary_Guidelines.pdf. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-updates-new-yorkers-states-progress-during-covid-19-pandemic

June 19: Governor Cuomo opened more regions to Phase Three, which allows massage therapy, spas, cosmetology, and nail professionals to reopen; however, services that require the client to remove their mask are prohibited. Open regions include the Capitol Region, Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier, and Western New York. Mid-Hudson Valley and Long Island are in Phase 2 (hair services only, nothing on the face). New York City is expected to move to Phase 2 on Monday, June 22, 2020. https://forward.ny.gov/

June 11: Governor Cuomo opened five regions to Phase Three as of June 12, 2020. This includes Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Southern Tier. This allows for massage therapy, spas, cosmetology, and nail professionals to reopen. Services that require the client to remove their mask are prohibited. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Personal_Care_Summary_Guidelines.pdf. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-five-regions-will-enter-phase-three-reopening-tomorrow

June 9: Phase Two opens in the Hudson Valley Region on June 9 and Long Island Region on June 10. This phase allows for the reopening of hair salons and barbershops to offer hair services only. Massage therapy, esthetics, and nail salons will be allowed to open in Phase Three. https://forward.ny.gov/phase-two-industries. https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home

June 1: Much of New York is in Phase 2, which allows the opening of hair salons and barbershops (for hair cutting and coloring only). Extensive guidelines for reopening have been issued. The key directive requires masks on at all times for clients and practitioners. The guidelines state: “This guidance applies only to hair service businesses, including hair salons, barbershops, and other similar hair service businesses. This guidance does not apply to nail salons, tattoo parlors, or any other non-haircutting-related personal care services or activities, including but not limited to: beard trimming, nose hair trimming, facials, manicures/pedicures, makeup application, threading, tweezing, or waxing.” Regions open in Phase 2 as of June 1 include Central New York, Finger Lakes, North Country, Mohawk Valley and Southern Tier. New York City enters Phase 1 around June 8. Please check the Forward NY link to stay up to date on what is opening when in New York. https://forward.ny.gov/phase-two-industries. https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/HairSalonsAndBarbershopSummaryGuidance.pdf

May 7: New York remains closed through May 15. The state is working on Phase 2 openings, and it appears that Professional Services, but not Personal Services are part of Phase 2 reopenings. We are looking for further guidance over the next few weeks that specifically pertains to massage therapy, esthetics, and cosmetology. https://www.governor.ny.gov/new-york-forward/regional-guidelines-re-opening-new-york#priority-industries-for-re-opening

April 27: Nonessential businesses are to remain closed through April 15. The New York Health Insurance Exchange is open through May 15 for those in need of health insurance. https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home

April 13: Some regulations restrict licensees to a certain percentage of self-study for continuing education requirements. In response to the evolving situation with COVID-19, and for those licensees whose registrations are due to renew March 1–September 1, 2020, the department will grant an adjustment to all licensees to complete up to 100% of the continuing education as self-study, so long as it is taken from a department-approved provider and is in an acceptable subject area for the specific profession. http://www.op.nysed.gov/COVID-19.html#COED

April 9: Self-employed individuals in New York should file for unemployment online. Last names starting with A–F file on Mondays, G–N on Tuesdays, O–Z on Wednesdays. If you miss your date, you can apply Thursday–Sunday. New York has a maximum payout of up to $504 per week (payout amounts will differ for each individual; not everyone will receive $504 per week). The federal government is adding $600 per week and has extended the unemployment period out an additional 13 weeks. https://labor.ny.gov/unemploymentassistance.shtm

March 21: All barbershops, hair salons, tattoo or piercing salons, nail salons, hair removal services, and related personal care services will be closed to the public effective Saturday, March 21, 2020, at 8:00 p.m. New York will implement a 90-day moratorium on evictions for residential and commercial tenants. Casinos, gyms, theaters, retail shopping malls, amusement parks, and bowling alleys are closed until further notice. Bars and restaurants are closed, but takeout can be ordered during the period of closure. Testing is free for all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health-care provider. www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-governor-murphy-governor-lamont-and-governor-wolf-direct

North Carolina

May 11: On April 28, 2021, Governor Cooper signed Executive Order 209, which removes the requirement that face coverings must be worn in outdoor settings, but continues the requirement that they be worn in most indoor settings. The order is effective April 30, 2021, through June 1, 2021. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO209-Easing-Statewide-Restrictions.pdf

April 30: Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 209, which removes the outdoor face covering requirement when six feet of social distancing cannot be maintained. However, face coverings will be required in most indoor settings. Personal care businesses may operate at 100% of stated fire occupancy and must limit the number of guests in the store so that patrons can stay six feet apart. This executive order is effective April 30, 2021, through June 1, 2021. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/NC_20210428_EO_209.pdf

February 1: Governor Cooper extended the Stay-at-Home order effective January 29, 2021, through February 28, 2021. North Carolina updated executive order FAQs on January 27, 2021, and you can review them at the following link: https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/Modified-Stay-at-Home-Order-FAQ.pdf. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO189-Further-Extension-of-Stay-at-Home-Order.pdf

December 10: On December 8, 2020, Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 181 that implements a Night-Time Public Closure Period. Personal care and grooming businesses, including barbershops, beauty salons, waxing and hair removal centers, hair salons, nail salons, and massage therapy establishments, must close their premises to the public by 10:00 p.m. and cannot reopen their premises before 5:00 a.m. the following morning. This order is effective December 11, 2020, through January 8, 2021. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO181-Modified-Stay-at-Home-Early-Closure-Order.pdf

November 26: The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services updated the Interim Guidance for Salons, Massage, and Personal Care Businesses Settings on November 23, 2020. Review the updated protocols in the linked document. https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/guidance/NCDHHS-Interim-Guidance-for-Salons-Personal-Care-Businesses-Phase-2.pdf?fbclid=IwAR07TweUsFYPnJm2ATPbERYpxjwAZ6XpAcs6gAWIrc9J8kDHUp48IyHrxXM

November 24: On November 23, 2020, Governor Cooper issued Executive Order No. 180 that strengthens the face covering requirement in North Carolina by adding additional circumstances in which people are required to wear a face covering in public places, both indoors and outdoors. Businesses offering personal care services must have workers wear a face covering at all times. Guests must also wear a face covering when in the establishment, unless they are receiving a service that involves the face. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO180-Face-Coverings-Requirements.pdf

August 10: Governor Roy Cooper extended Phase 2 through September 11, requiring face masks and social distancing. https://www.nc.gov/covid-19/staying-ahead-curve/phase-2-extension-faqs

July 29: Governor Roy Cooper extended Phase 2 through August 7, 2020, requiring face masks and social distancing to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO151-Phase-2-Extension-1.pdf

June 24: Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 147, requiring face masks to be worn in public spaces. Facials, shavings, and face massages are still allowed.

May 21: On May 20, 2020, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order No. 141, moving North Carolina into Phase 2 of reopening the state and some businesses. Businesses offering personal care services, including barbershops, beauty salons, waxing and hair removal centers, hair salons, nail salons, manicure or pedicure studios, and massage therapy establishments, may reopen May 22, 2020. Businesses reopening should follow the state's safety guidance found here: https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/guidance/NCDHHS-Interim-Guidance-for-Salons-Personal-Care-Businesses-Phase-2.pdf. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO141-Phase-2.pdf

May 13: On May 5, 2020, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 138, easing restrictions on some businesses within the state in Phase 1 of reopening North Carolina. Personal care and grooming businesses are to remain closed through May 22, 2020, including barbershops, beauty salons (waxing and hair removal centers included), hair salons, nail salons and manicure/pedicure providers, and massage therapists. Exempt from this order are massage therapists who may provide medical massage therapy services upon specific referral from a medical or naturopathic health-care provider. Refer to page 10 of the provided link. https://files.nc.gov/governor/documents/files/EO138-Phase-1.pdf

March 24: On Monday, March 23, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper ordered all K-12 public schools to be closed through May 15. Businesses such as gyms, movie theaters, sweepstakes parlors, and health clubs were asked to close as soon as possible and must close by Wednesday afternoon. Hair and nail salons, barbershops, and massage businesses were also advised to close. https://abc11.com/health/latest-durham-county-with-71-covid-19-cases/6044754/

North Dakota

April 27: April 27: In an April 21, 2021, press release, Governor Burgum announced he will lift North Dakota’s COVID-19 emergency declaration on April 30, 2021. Lifting the emergency declaration will eliminate remaining pandemic-related executive orders, though local measures or orders may still be in place. https://www.governor.nd.gov/news/burgum-lift-covid-19-emergency-declaration-april-30-vaccination-efforts-remain-top-priority

March 3: Governor Burgum issued Executive Order 2021-05, essentially rescinding all COVID-19 Executive Orders, including the EO from May, which encouraged personal care services to follow the North Dakota Smart Restart protocols. https://www.governor.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/executive-orders/Executive%20Order%202021-05.pdf

November 18: On November 13, 2020, the North Dakota Department of Health issued Order #2020-08, which requires face coverings to be worn inside indoor businesses and indoor public settings, as well as outdoor businesses and public settings when it is not possible to maintain six feet of physical distance. Individuals receiving personal care services may temporarily remove a face covering to receive a service. Businesses must post one or more signs that instruct workers, clients, and visitors to wear a face covering. The order is effective November 14, 2020, through December 14, 2020. https://www.governor.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/executive-orders/SHO%20Order%202020-08%20Signed.pdf

May 6: On April 29, 2020, Governor Burgum announced in Executive Order 2020-6.4 that personal care services provided by cosmetologists, estheticians, manicurists, barbers, and massage therapists may return to practice on May 1, 2020. However, they adopt and rigorously follow the personal services guidelines found here: https://ndresponse.gov/covid-19-resources/covid-19-business-and-employer-resources/nd-smart-restart/nd-smart-restart-protocols/personal-services

March 23: Health clubs are specifically shut down as of March 20. The Board does not have the authority to mandate closure of a licensee's business or establishments. Instead, the Board is asking that licensees carefully consider recommendations made by the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), the North Dakota Department of Health, and the Governor's Office. https://www.ndbmt.org/article.asp?action2=showArticle&id=19&ty=GEN

Ohio

September 10: Legislative update from AHP: Columbus, Ohio, Reissues Mask Mandate September 10, 2021

May 14: In a May 12, 2021, news release, Governor Dewine announced that most pandemic health orders will expire on June 2, 2021. Measures being removed will include facial covering protocols, social distancing guidelines, and capacity restrictions for indoor and outdoor events. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/OHOOD/2021/04/27/file_attachments/1784979/Addendum%20to%20social%20distancing%20order%20%2004.27.21.pdf

January 5: The Ohio Department of Health extended the statewide curfew outlined in the Stay at Home Tonight Order until January 23, 2021. Ohio residents must be home between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.

December 14: On December 10, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that the Ohio Department of Health will be extending the statewide curfew outlined in the Stay at Home Tonight Order until January 2, 2021. Ohio residents must be home between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/news-releases-news-you-can-use/covid-19-update-12-10-20

November 18: On November 13, 2020, the Ohio Department of Health reissued a statewide mask mandate, requiring all persons to wear a facial covering in or on retail permises effective November 16, 2020. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/OHOOD/2020/11/13/file_attachments/1601517/20201113174433_001.pdf

September 24: House Bill 606 grants qualified civil immunity for health care services, including massage therapy services, during a government-declared disaster emergency, such as exposure to or transmission of COVID-19.

July 23: Governor DeWine issued a statewide mask mandate as of 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 23, 2020. There was no clarification on whether services that require a mask to be removed are allowed. This may impact facials, face massages, beard trims, etc. https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/covid19-update-07222020

May 13: In a press release on May 7, 2020, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the next phase of the Responsible RestartOhio plan as it relates to restaurants, bars, and personal care services. Massage therapy is included in the next phase of the Responsible RestartOhio plan, and massage therapy establishments may reopen May 15, 2020. Practitioners must follow the sector-specific operating requirements developed by the state found here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/responsible-restart-ohio/

May 7: In a press release, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the next phase of the Responsible RestartOhio plan as it relates to restaurants, bars, and personal care services. Personal care services, such as hair salons, barbershops, day spas, nail salons, and tanning facilities, may reopen on May 15, 2020. Businesses that reopen must follow Governor DeWine's detailed list of guidelines. https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/covid19-update-may-7-2020

April 29: Massage therapy locations, hair salons, day spas, and barbershops are not included in the Responsible RestartOhio plan list of businesses that can open on May 1. Only massages offered as part of a patient's plan of care, in a setting such as a doctor's office, hospital, or chiropractor's office, may continue. https://med.ohio.gov/COVID-19

March 19: Effective immediately March 19, all "Massage Therapy Locations" must be shut down.

Oklahoma

November 24: Effective November 17, 2020, for 30 days, all persons in Oklahoma are required to wear a facial covering or mask over the mouth and nose at all times when maintaining a physical distance of six feet is not possible. This order applies while indoors or in an outdoor space. This order does not apply when wearing a facial covering or mask would prevent a service. https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/executive/1971.pdf

August 10: Governor Stitt issued Executive Order 2020-20 allowing all occupational licenses that expire during this emergency to be extended. The extension ends 14 days after the order is lifted. https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/executive/1951.pdf

April 24: Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announced the Open Up & Recover Safely (OURS) Plan, a three-phased approach to reopen the state. In Phase One-Part One, hair salons, barbershops, spas, and nail salons may reopen business Friday, April 24, 2020, by appointment only and must follow strict sanitation protocols. View the guidelines here: Hair and Nails Guideline PDF. Spa Guideline PDF. https://www.okcommerce.gov/covid19/ours-plan/

March 27: Oklahoma’s State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering voted on Thursday, March 26, 2020, to adopt an emergency rule increasing the distance education allowance from 10% up to 30% per course (theory training only). Once the Governor signs the rule to make it official, letters to those that have already requested them will be sent out. Schools can request an approval letter from the board by emailing the Director of the Agency, Sherry Lewelling, at Sherry.Lewelling@cosmo.ok.gov.

March 23: The recommendations include temporarily postponing elective surgeries, implementing best practices for medical providers, helping grocery stores innovate their operations by providing drive-thru pick up or delivery for all customers and encouraging the use of technology, and temporarily closing some high-touch businesses like spas, nail salons, and massage locations. https://oklahoman.com/article/5658341/stitt-forms-coronavirus-task-force

Oregon

January 3: In an Administrative Order issued December 21, 2021, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division announced further COVID-19 requirements. Employers operating barbershops, hair salons, esthetician practices, medical spas and day spas, non-medical massage therapy establishments, and nail salons must now allow employees to wear medical grade masks, if they choose to do so, when providing services. As per previous orders, clients must be allowed to remove face coverings when appropriate/necessary for certain services (face-down on a massage table, mustache or beard trims, facials, etc.). https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/OR_20211221_49650_changes.pdf (page 17)

May 14: Governor Brown announced that the mask requirement is lifted for fully vaccinated Oregonians in most public settings, aligning the state with new federal guidance from the CDC. https://www.oregonlive.com/coronavirus/2021/05/mask-requirement-lifted-for-fully-vaccinated-oregonians-in-most-public-settings-governor-says.html

February 9: A new massage therapy rule was adopted and became effective February 2, 2021, that allows reduced continuing education hours and alternative methods of obtaining CE hours when a governor of Oregon declares a state of emergency. NOTE: The rule does not apply to cultural competency continuing education subject matter requirements. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/OR_20210202_46818_changes.pdf

January 12: The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) recently released information on the COVID-19 vaccine, distribution, and recommended sequencing plan.

December 7: New guidelines for Personal Care Services (including barbershops, hair salons, esthetician practices, medical spas, facial spas and day spas, non-medical massage therapy services, nail salons, tanning salons, and tattoo/piercing parlors) were issued on Friday, December 3. In addition, the 2-week stay at home order expired on December 2. https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2342f.pdf

December 3: On December 2, 2020, Governor Brown issued Executive Order No. 20-66 that establishes a risk and safety framework for a county-by-county metrics-based approach to control COVID-19 within the state. The order is effective December 3, 2020, and will remain in effect until terminated by the governor. https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Documents/executive_orders/eo_20-66.pdf

November 16: The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division released updated mandatory workplace guidance for personal service providers effective November 16, 2020, through May 4, 2021. The updated guidance begins on page 35 of the linked document. Personal service providers are barbershops; hair salons; esthetician practices; medical, facial, and day spas; non-medical massage therapy services; and nail salons. Sole practitioners are exempt. The guidance allows for clients wearing face coverings to temporarily remove the covering when appropriate or necessary for certain services. https://osha.oregon.gov/OSHARules/div1/437-001-0744.pdf

November 10: The Oregon Health and Safety Division issued new COVID-19 guidelines effective November 6, 2020, through May 4, 2021. Mandatory guidance for personal service providers is found on page 23 of the linked document. Note: the guidance allows for clients to remove face coverings when appropriate and/or necessary for certain services. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/OR_20201106_46157_filing.pdf

On October 27, 2020, Governor Brown issued Executive Order 20-59, which extends the COVID-19 state of emergency through January 2, 2021. https://drive.google.com/file/d/18537UyQYYmDq35ePysn5Zwgi2hFsLb6l/view

September 8: Governor Brown extended the state of emergency through November 3, 2020. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rUY135D2oVQtHKqBoPjgT5lE3S9i7fsu/view

July 16: Governor Brown announced that Oregonians statewide will be required to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces. The guidance applies to businesses and members of the public visiting indoor public spaces. The governor stated, "I do not want to have to close down businesses again like other states are now doing. If you want your local shops and restaurants to stay open, then wear a face covering when out in public." Review the face covering guidance at the following link: https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2288K.pdf

June 9: Updated guidelines state that businesses must post maximum occupancy sign with new occupancy reflecting OHA guidance, including physical distancing requirements. https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2342C.pdf

May 15: Non-medical massage therapy services, barbershops, hair salons, esthetician practices, medical spas, facial spas and day spas, and nail salons may reopen in Phase 1 on May 15, 2020, except in the following counties: Washington, Clackamas, Polk, Multnomah, and Marion. Businesses reopening must following the state's specific guidance for personal services providers found at https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2342F.pdf. https://govstatus.egov.com/reopening-oregon#phase1

April 29: The Oregon Board of Massage Therapists (OBMT) issued a statement that massage therapy is not included in the non-urgent procedures that are allowed to open on May 1. Read the statement here.

March 24: Governor Kate Brown issued Executive Order EO 20-12, which prohibits shopping at specific categories of retail businesses for which close personal contact is difficult to avoid, such as arcades, barber shops, hair salons, gyms, and fitness studios, skating rinks, theaters, and yoga studios. https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Documents/executive_orders/eo_20-12.pdf

Pennsylvania

June 8: The masking order in Pennsylvania will be lifted on June 28, 2021, or when 70% of adults are fully vaccinated, whichever comes first. Fully vaccinated Pennsylvanians may choose not to wear a mask, unless they are required to by a business or organization. https://dced.pa.gov/resources/

May 14: Pennsylvania is adopting the CDC’s newly relaxed mask guidelines: Fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to wear masks in most indoor and outdoor places. https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2021/05/14/cdc-mask-guidance-pennsylvania-relax-vaccinated/

December 14: Effective December 12, 2020, all in-person businesses serving the public within a building or defined area may only operate at up to 50% of the maximum capacity. This order will remain in effect through January 4, 2020. https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/20201210-TWW-Limited-Time-Mitigation-Order.pdf

December 1: On November 24, 2020, Governor Wolf renewed the Proclamation of Disaster Emergency for a period of 90 days. https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/20201124-TWW-3rd-Amendment-COVID-19-Proclamation.pdf

November 24: On November 23, 2020, Governor Wolf issued a Mitigation, Enforcement, and Immunity Protections Order. Effective November 27, 2020, and until further notice, all businesses offering personal care services, including spas, massage therapy establishments, hair and nail salons, and barbershops, may operate at 50 percent occupancy and by appointment only. The order also outlines guidance on cleaning protocols, mitigation measures, contact tracing, employee isolation/quarantining, signage, physical distancing, curbside pickup, and face coverings. https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/20201123-TWW-mitigation-enforcement-immunity-order.pdf

November 18: Philadelphia issued new COVID-19 orders on November 16 with an effective date of November 20 through January 1, 2021. These orders allow certain close personal services to still be performed; however, the orders prohibit services that require temporary removal of masks. As a result, facials and beard trims are prohibited. Larger personal care services businesses can have no more than 5 people per 1,000 feet. https://www.phila.gov/media/20201118091957/Executive-Order-for-Additional-Safety-Measures-Fall-Winter-2020-21.pdf

October 16: The Pennsylvania Department of State released updated Guidance for Cosmetology Salons for counties in the Green Phase, which allows facials and facial hair removal services to be performed so long as the client has a temperature check before the service and the service provider is wearing a face mask and goggles or a face shield during the service. The client may choose to leave their face mask on or temporarily remove it and may require the provider to wear gloves during the service. https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Cosmetology/Pages/COVID19-GreenPhase-CosmetologySalons.aspx

July 14: On July 1, 2020, Governor Wolf expanded a previous order that required masks to be worn in businesses by announcing that masks must now be worn whenever one leaves home. Face coverings are required if you are unable to maintain a distance of six feet, while in any indoor public space, taking public transportation, or obtaining services from the health-care sector. https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/20200701-SOH-Universal-Face-Coverings-Order.pdf

June 25: The Pennsylvania Department of State released Guidance for Cosmetology Salons for services permitted during the Green Phase. NOTE: Services that would require the removal of the client's face mask (e.g., facials, lip or chin hair removal, etc.) are not allowed at this time. https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Cosmetology/Pages/COVID19-GreenPhase-CosmetologySalons.aspx

June 24: Governor Wolf allows Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Erie, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and Susquehanna counties to move into the "green" phase as of June 26, 2020. Philadelphia has additional restrictions through July 3. Lebanon County remains in the "yellow" phase. The green phase allows hair salons and barbershops to open at 50% occupancy with services by appointment only, and massage therapy services to open at 50% occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged. https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/gov-wolf-12-more-counties-to-go-green-on-june-26/

June 19: Most of Southeast Pennsylvania will move into the Green Phase June 26, 2020. More counties in Central Pennsylvania moved into the Green Phase June 19, 2020, which allows hair salons and barbershops to open at 50 percent occupancy with services by appointment only, and massage therapy services to operate at 50 percent occupancy with services by appointment suggested. Philadelphia is also reopening but people must follow the plan proposed by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/reopening-phase-orders-updated-to-include-8-additional-counties-moving-to-green-on-june-19/

June 12: Many counties are moving into the "green" phase, which allows hair salons and barbershops to open at 50 percent occupancy with services by appointment only, and massage therapy to open at 50 percent occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged. https://www.pa.gov/guides/responding-to-covid-19/#GreenPhase

May 29: Many counties are moving into the "green" phase, which allows hair salons and barbershops to open at 50 percent occupancy with services by appointment only, and massage therapy to open at 50 percent occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged. 

May 13: As Pennsylvania regions and counties move into the yellow phase, restrictions on personal care services remain in place. Spas, hair salons, nail salons, and massage therapy establishments must remain closed. https://www.governor.pa.gov/process-to-reopen-pennsylvania/

May 4: Personal care services such as gyms, spas, hair salons, nail salons, and other entities that provide massage therapy, will remain closed in the "yellow" phase. Pennsylvania Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine explained why these businesses will remain closed: “It is impossible to practice social distancing when you have a hands-on treatment." We have heard from the Department of Health that massage therapy may be  practiced in a medical setting, so long as practitioners wear N95 masks, face shields, and disposable medical gowns, and are seeking clarification. https://www.wtae.com/article/pennsylvania-health-secretary-dr-levine-explains-why-hair-salons-barber-shops-cant-reopen-in-yellow-phase/32352726#

April 20: Self-employed individuals in Pennsylvania can apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance as of April 18. https://www.uc.pa.gov/Pages/covid19.aspx

April 7: Due to the COVID-19 crisis and various stay-at-home orders, the Pennsylvania Department of State requested a waiver to temporarily suspend the State Board of Massage Therapy’s regulations related to CPR certification. For the duration of the pandemic, the Board will consider any CPR certification that was in effect on March 17, 2020, to remain in effect through December 31, 2020. For anyone needing to obtain new CPR certification during the pandemic (for initial licensure or reactivation), the Board will waive the hands-on requirement and accept online CPR certification. https://www.dos.pa.gov/Documents/2020-04-07-Summary-CPR-Dentist-Massage-Therapy.pdf

March 24: Governor Wolf granted the Department of State’s request to suspend restrictions on distance learning for continuing education requirements for certain licensed professionals. Many licensing boards of the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs have ongoing continuing education requirements. Although only a few boards are currently in renewal, many “in-person” continuing education programs are canceling courses or closing education centers and it is unknown how long they may be impacted. The governor granted a suspension of restrictions that limited the ability of licensees to take classes online or participate in distance-learning opportunities for the current biennial renewal period to permit all licensees to complete their continuing education online during the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.dos.pa.gov/Documents/2020-03-22-Continuing-Education-Suspensions.pdf

March 23: Governor Tom Wolf ordered all non-life-sustaining businesses in Pennsylvania to close their physical locations as of 8:00 p.m. March 19, to slow the spread of COVID-19. Enforcement actions against businesses that do not close physical locations will begin at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, March 21. “To protect the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians, we need to take more aggressive mitigation actions,” said Gov. Wolf. “This virus is an invisible danger that could be present everywhere. We need to act with the strength we use against any other severe threat. And, we need to act now before the illness spreads more widely.” https://dced.pa.gov/newsroom/all-non-life-sustaining-businesses-in-pennsylvania-to-close-physical-locations-as-of-8-pm-today-to-slow-spread-of-covid-19/

Rhode Island

May 14: Governor McKee issued Executive Order 21-46 and announced that businesses offering personal services, including hair salons, barber shops, nail salons, spas, and massage therapy establishments, may operate up to 80% of operating capacity effective May 7, 2021, through May 27, 2021. (See page 8 of the linked document.) https://governor.ri.gov/documents/orders/Executive-Order-21-46.pdf

January 5: Governor Raimondo extended Executive Order 20-94 that requires cloth face coverings in public. This order is effective December 30, 2020, through January 28, 2021. https://governor.ri.gov/documents/orders/Executive-Order-20-111.pdf

December 4: Governor Raimondo issued Executive Order 20-100 on November 30, 2020, that advises residents to stay at home between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Personal service businesses (page 10 of the linked document) may remain open so long as they continue to follow the Phase III guidelines at https://ReopeningRI.com.  The order also outlines international and domestic travel restrictions, including a 14-day self-quarantine requirement. The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect through December 13, 2020. https://governor.ri.gov/documents/orders/Executive-Order-20-100.pdf

November 12: Phase III guidelines for personal services were updated November 6, 2020. Barbers, hairdressers, cosmetologists, manicurists, estheticians, and massage therapists must follow the guidelines in the linked document. An N95 mask is now required, along with a face shield for those services that require masks to be removed. These services are discouraged at this time. https://reopeningri.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Phase-III-guidelines-for-personal-services.pdf

October 15: The Rhode Island Department of Health released a list of safe activities and covered entities during the COVID-19 state of emergency. Effective October 6, 2020, personal services, including those provided by barbers, hairdressers, cosmetologists, manicurists, estheticians, massage therapists, and instructors, will be considered covered entities. For the duration of the state of emergency, personal service providers must take the steps outlined in the linked document to limit the spread of COVID-19. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/RI_20201007_216-RICR-50-15-7_final_fulltext.pdf

August 10: Governor Raimondo extended Phase 3 through August 28. Included is a reduction to the number of people allowed to gather in groups from 25 to 15. https://www.wpri.com/health/coronavirus/july-29-ri-coronavirus-update/

July 23: Updated guidelines were issued for barbers, hairdressers, cosmetologists, nail professionals, estheticians, instructors, and massage therapists. The language for personal services (page 11) remains the same. The major change affects the Civil Penalities section. View the updated section on page 13 of the linked document. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/RI_20200717_216-RICR-50-15-7_emergency_fulltext.pdf

July 16: On July 3, 2020, Governor Raimondo extended Executive Order 20-41, which requires cloth mask coverings in public through to August 2, 2020. The order requires any person who is in a place open to the public, whether indoors or outdoors, to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or face covering. Per the order, individuals must continue to wear face coverings when providing or receiving personal care services. Face coverings are not required for people who can easily and continuously maintain at least six feet of distance from others.

June 4: The Department of Health issued regulations to establish baseline criteria for safe activity by and at businesses offering personal services, including barbers, hairdressers, cosmeticians, manicurists, estheticians, massage therapists, and instructors in Rhode Island during the COVID-19 state of emergency. The rules are effective June 1, 2020, and will remain in effect through September 5, 2020, unless renewed. Review the adopted rules beginning with general guidance on page 3 in the linked document. Personal services are covered specifically on page 11. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/RI_20200603_216-RICR-50-15-7_final_fulltext.pdf

June 1: Personal services, including barbershops, salons, and businesses providing braiding, nail care, waxing, and massage therapy, may reopen June 1, 2020, in Phase 2 of Reopening RI: Navigating Our Way. Businesses that reopen should follow the state-developed safety guidelines at www.reopeningri.com. https://www.reopeningri.com/resource_pdfs/Phase-II/Reopening-Phase-II-Navigating-Our-Way-05.22.20.pdf

May 26: Governor Raimondo extended Phase 1 of Reopening RI through June 1, 2020. It appears that Phase 2, which includes massage therapy, barbershops and, salons, will begin on June 1, though there are very few, very basic guidelines highlighted for barbershops and salons in the Phase 2 document. We will continue to seek clarity and provide updates as they are available. https://www.reopeningri.com/resource_pdfs/Phase-II/Reopening-Phase-II-Navigating-Our-Way-05.22.20.pdf

April 3: Receive an email when the COVID-19 emergency unemployment insurance application becomes available by following this link: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/TMTsd0j/COVID19updates

March 26: No later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2020, all close-contact business (businesses that cannot maintain social distancing with their customers) including, but not limited to, gymnasiums, fitness centers, hair salons and barbershops, nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors shall cease in-person operations. http://www.governor.ri.gov/documents/orders/Executive-Order-20-09.pdf

South Carolina

December 11: On December 8, 2020, Governor McMaster issued Executive Order No. 2020-75, declaring a state of emergency within South Carolina.

October 16: Governor McMaster issued Executive Order No. 2020-63, which encourages counties and municipalities to enact appropriate face covering mandates. A person who is receiving a service that requires access to the face is exempt. https://governor.sc.gov/sites/default/files/Documents/Executive-Orders/2020-10-02%20FILED%20Executive%20Order%20No.%202020-63%20-%20Amending%20%26%20Consolidating%20Emergency%20Measures.pdf

May 18: South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and accelerateSC announced on May 11, 2020, that close contact professions such as massage and cosmetology may return to work May 18, 2020. Guidelines for both massage therapy and cosmetologists can be found on the Board of Massage Therapy website. https://llr.sc.gov/mas/

April 1: The SC Emergency Management Division and the SC Department of Commerce have developed a list of industries deemed “non-essential” that will be closed temporarily effective 5:00 p.m. on April 1, 2020. “Non-essential” businesses, venues, facilities, services, and activities will be closed to non-employees and will not be open for access or use by the public. Such businesses include close-contact service providers such as barber shops, hair salons, waxing and threading salons, nail salons and spas, and massage-therapy establishments and massage services. https://www.sccommerce.com/covid-19-non-essential-business-guidelines

March 25: The Massage/Bodywork Panel is continuing to monitor the challenges presented by COVID-19 (coronavirus) as the situation progresses, and will provide additional guidance in regards to issues that may emerge, as circumstances warrant. There is no order to stop, but we recommend you follow social distancing protocols, and suggest that licensees review and be familiar with federal OSHA and CDC information regarding COVID-19 and the workplace, businesses, and employees. https://llr.sc.gov/mas/#

To proactively address the concerns regarding COVID-19, the Panel will allow all approved licensed massage schools to offer pre-licensure course work to be delivered online in lieu of meeting face-to-face in the classroom as required by the Panel’s statutory provision. This distance education will be limited to the theory hours of instruction for Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology, Business, and Massage Theory Review. The Panel’s temporary emergency provision is a result of Governor McMaster’s mandate that all state colleges must deliver online education in lieu of meeting face-to-face with students from March 16 through March 31.​​​https://llr.sc.gov/mas/pdf/Important%20information%20from%20the%20Board%20related%20to%20COVID-19.pdf

South Dakota

May 14: South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem announced the Back to Normal Plan on April 28, 2020, enouraging businesses to "resume operations in a manner that allows for reasonable physical distancing, good hygiene, and appropriate sanitation [...] Consider restricting occupancy and continue innovating in this uncertain environment." https://covid.sd.gov/docs/COVID_SDPlan_BackToNormal.pdf

March 31: Gov. Kristi Noem signed an executive order on Monday setting a baseline for decision-making related to the novel coronavirus in South Dakota. Employers should implement the recommended CDC hygiene practices and other business strategies designed to reduce the likelihood of spreading the disease, encourage staff to telework if possible, implement social distancing measures, limit unnecessary work gatherings, limit non-essential travel, and consider regular health checks, including CDC guidance for COVID-19 screening if possible. https://www.argusleader.com/story/news/2020/03/23/coronavirus-read-south-dakota-gov-kristi-noems-executive-order/2902767001/

Tennessee

April 30: April 30: In an April 27, 2021, press release, Governor Lee announced the end of statewide public health orders and ended local authority to issue mask requirements in the 89 counties directed by the state health department. The governor's focus is on economic recovery. https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2021/4/27/gov--lee-pushes-reopening--focus-on-economic-recovery.html

March 11: In an updated Executive Order, Governor Lee granted localities the authority to extend mask mandates through April 28, 2021. The order reads, in part: “County mayors in the 89 counties that do not have a locally run county health department shall have the authority to issue orders or measures requiring or recommending the wearing of face coverings within their jurisdictions.” https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/pub/execorders/exec-orders-lee77.pdf

December 31: Governor Lee issued Executive Order No. 70 that limits gatherings and encourages working from home effective December 20, 2020 through January 19, 2021. https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/pub/execorders/exec-orders-lee70.pdf

November 12: The Tennessee Department of Health suspended its continuing education audit through December 2020 for health-care practitioners, including massage therapists, due to the cancellation of in-person/live CE courses due to COVID-19. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/healthprofboards/Policy-on-Continuing-Education.pdf

October 16: Nashville and Davidson counties are now in Phase 3 as of October 1, 2020. Businesses offering close-contact personal services may operate at 50% capacity. https://www.asafenashville.org/roadmap-for-reopening-nashville-phase-3-guidance-and-resources/#closecontact

May 5: Governor Lee issued Executive Order No 33, allowing businesses that perform close contact personal services, such as barbershops, hair salons, waxing and threading salons, nail salons, spas providing body treatments, and massage therapy establishments, to reopen May 6, 2020. Note that this does not apply to the six counties surrounding the cities of Memphis, Knoxville, and Nashville. Those returning to practice are encouraged by the state to follow the suggested guidelines for close contact businesses at https://www.tn.gov/governor/covid-19/economic-recovery/close-contact-business-guidelines.html. In addition, please check your local county regulations, as some counties are requiring longer stay-at-home periods.

April 27: On April 24, 2020, Governor Lee had a press conference to describe what the reopening will look like. At this press conference it was noted that “close contact personal services like barbershops, salons, tattoo shops, and massage [establishments] could reopen later in May.” https://www.wmcactionnews5.com/2020/04/24/gov-bill-lee-announcing-new-guidelines-businesses-reopening-next-week/

April 21: Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced the order for Tennesseans to remain at home will expire April 30, 2020, with the vast majority of businesses in 89 counties allowed to re-open on May 1, 2020. Governor Lee stated, “These businesses will open according to specific guidance that we will provide in accordance with state and national experts in both medicine and business.” As of April 21, it is unclear at this point if massage therapy and cosmetology is included in businesses reopening as there is currently not a list available for reference. We are working with state officials and will provide updates as they come along. https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2020/4/20/gov--lee-announces-safer-at-home-order-will-expire-april-30--tennessee-begins-phased-reopening-next-week.html

March 26: Metro Nashville Mayor John Cooper issued a "safer at home" order for all of Davidson County for the next 14 days. The order was given in an effort to help limit the spread of COVID-19. The order closes nonessential businesses and urges people to stay at home unless they have an essential need beginning 12:01 a.m. Monday, March 23. https://www.newschannel5.com/news/metro-leaders-to-hold-update-on-covid-19-outbreak-in-nashville

Texas

March 3: On March 2, 2021, Governor Abbot issued Executive Order 34, which rescinds the mask mandate of EO 29. If there are high hospitalizations (over 15% hospital capacity with COVID-19 patients over 7 days), businesses are to return to 50% capacity. Businesses can still require masks. https://open.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/EO-GA-34-opening-Texas-response-to-COVID-disaster-IMAGE-03-02-2021.pdf

December 3: On November 23, 2020, the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation passed an emergency rule to ensure all TDLR licensees with a license that expired between August 1, 2020, and November 30, 2020, now hold what is considered an “emergency license” valid for up to 120 days after their license expiration date. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/Agendas/Commagendas/agenda112320.htm

July 27: Texas released updated COVID-19 guidelines for cosmetologists and barbers. Review the revised Checklist for Cosmetology Salons/Hair Salons at the following link: https://open.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/OpenTexas-Checklist-Cosmetology-Hair-Salons.pdf
 and the Checklist for Barbershops at the following link: https://open.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/OpenTexas-Checklist-Barber-Shops.pdf

July 7: Governor Abbott issued updated guidelines requiring masks to be worn by employees and clients: "Face masks or fabric face coverings must always be worn by employers, employees, contractors, and clients while inside the establishment, even if individuals are practicing social distancing except when temporary removal is necessary to receive a service. Clients receiving services that cannot be provided while a mask is worn must wear a mask or face covering before and after such times as the service cannot be provided while a mask is worn." Guidelines for customers are also now available: https://open.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/OpenTexas-Checklist-Massage-Personal-Care-Beauty-Service-Customers.pdf. https://open.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/opentexas/OpenTexas-Checklist-Cosmetology-Hair-Salons.pdf

May 5: Governor Abbott issued GA-21, which provides that licensed cosmetologists and barbers may return to work as of Friday, May 8. There must be six feet social distancing between stations. TDLR has developed guidelines for cosmetology/hair salons, barbershops, and nail salons. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm

May 1: Yesterday the Texas Attorney General's Office released a guidance letter to address questions relating to Governor Abbott's Executive Order GA-18. Barbershops, cosmetology salons (including nail and esthetician), massage establishments, and laser hair establishments must remain closed until further notice. The Governor's order overrides conflicting local and county orders. https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/guidance-letter-about-reopening-non-essential-businesses-regarding-ga-18

April 28: Under Executive Order GA-18 issued by Texas Governor Greg Abbott on April 27, 2020, all cosmetology salons (including nail salons, estheticians, and mini-salons), barber shops, and massage establishments shall continue to remain closed. Executive Order GA-18 overrides all local and county orders. Whether a salon or shop is a sole proprietorship or not, they are to remain closed until Executive Order GA-18 is amended or rescinded.https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/press/EO-GA-18_expanded_reopening_of_services_COVID-19.pdf

April 21: Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order loosening the restrictions on nonessential businesses. Although cosmetology salons, barber shops, or massage establishments remain closed for services, starting April 24, 2020, these businesses may begin selling products via pickup, delivery by mail, or delivery to customers’ doorstep. Delivery must be in strict compliance with the terms required by the Texas Department of State Health Services, which can be found at www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus. The Governor states the next step in the re-opening process for Texas will be announced April 27, 2020. https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-issues-executive-order-to-safely-and-strategically-reopen-select-services-and-activities-in-texas

April 20: Per the Texas Department of Licensing Massage Establishments, Cosmetology Salons and Barbershops are still closed. Per a previous statement on March 31 by TDLR, all licensed massage therapy, cosmetology, and barber services are not to be offered. This new executive order does allow these businesses as of April 24 to sell products by pick up, mail, or home delivery. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm

April 2: The Texas Department of Licensing announces provisions to allow cosmetology, barbering, and massage therapy schools to offer practical instructions remotely, utilizing technologies such as videos of hands-on work, electronic learning, virtual learning, and other practices that would effectively deliver the practical portion of the school’s curriculum to ensure that a student develops the job skills and knowledge to obtain a license in Texas. Remote practical instruction does not include internship or apprenticeship instructional hours. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm

April 1: Governor Greg Abbott's Executive Order GA-08 is subject to expiration at 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020, absent further direction. To avoid scenarios that could lead to hundreds of thousands of deaths, the Governor ordered that every person in Texas shall, except where necessary to provide or obtain essential services, minimize social gatherings and minimize in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. The order is effective 12:01 a.m. on April 2, 2020, and continues through April 30, 2020, subject to extension based on the status of COVID-19 in Texas and the recommendations of the CDC and the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Failure to comply with any executive order issued during the COVID-19 disaster is an offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000, confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days, or both fine and confinement.https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-issues-executive-order-implementing-essential-services-and-activities-protocols

Effective April 2, 2020, only essential services are allowed. Only people providing essential services are permitted to be out in public providing services. This new order prohibits services from being provided by massage therapists, barbers, and cosmetologists. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm

March 24: To help keep its licensees ready and available to assist with combating the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is taking the following actions: Waiving continuing education requirements for all licenses expiring in March, April, and May 2020. Licensees will still submit their renewal applications, pay the required fees, and have their criminal histories checked, but they will not need to complete any required continuing education requirements this licensing cycle. The Texas Department of Licensing reminds other practitioners that they must continue to observe sanitary requirements. Anyone seeking guidance about whether to continue providing services should contact their local health departments or county judges, who are authorized to make that decision. https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/covid19.htm

Utah

March 11: The Utah legislature passed House Bill 294, which will end the the state's mask mandate April 10, 2021. However, a local health department, with approval from the county, may still issue a public health order requiring individuals to wear masks. https://le.utah.gov/~2021/bills/hbillamd/HB0294S04.pdf

November 24: The Utah Department of Health issued Public Health Order 2020-25 on November 21, 2020, extending the temporary statewide COVID-19 restrictions through December 8, 2020. https://coronavirus-download.utah.gov/Health/UPHO_2020-25_Statewide_COVID-19_Restrictions.pdf

November 18: The Utah Department of Health issued State Public Health Order 2020-24 that outlines temporary statewide COVID-19 restrictions. Individuals are required to wear a face mask while within six feet of another from a separate household and when entering a business. Those receiving a service that requires the temporary removal of a mask are exempt from this order. This order is effective November 12, 2020, through November 23, 2020. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yYyTxOJ3Z-yUY6JPbcY5v2-9G59vsHNN/view

November 12: On November 8, 2020, Governor Herbert issued Executive Order 2020-73, extending statewide COVID-19 restrictions through November 23, 2020. Utah residents will be required to wear a face covering in public when social distancing cannot be maintained. https://coronavirus-download.utah.gov/Governor/EO-2020-73-temporary-statewide-covid-19-restrictions.pdf

July 10: Senate Bill 3007 was signed by Governor Herbert on May 4. The bill provides that a person is immune from liability for damages resulting from COVID-19 exposure at any premises owned or operated or managed by the person. This immunity does not apply to willful misconduct, reckless infliction of harm, or intentional infliction of harm. https://le.utah.gov/~2020S3/bills/static/SB3007.html

June 12: Most of Utah is now in the Low Risk (Yellow) Phase. Guidelines for all risk phases have been developed for barbers, cosmetologists, nail technicians, and massage therapists, and can be found on page 17 of the following document: https://governor.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2020/05/Phased_Health_Guidelines_V4.5.2_05262020.pdf. To find out what phase your county is in, follow the link at https://coronavirus.utah.gov/utahs-health-guidance-system. https://governor.utah.gov/2020/05/27/governor-issues-executive-order-releasing-updated-guidelines-for-low-risk-phase-in-the-utah-leads-together-plan/

April 29: Governor Gary R. Herbert issued an Executive Order that moves Utah into the “Moderate Risk Phase” beginning on May 1, 2020. Personal services provided by barbers, cosmetologists, and nail technicians may return to practice, but must follow strict safety protocols. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xcR8cszh7ATSZY2Y2NeCkzo5mV4gD3qj/view

March 31: Utah Governor Gary Herbery issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" directive to be in place until 11:59 p.m. on April 13, 2020. https://coronavirus.utah.gov/full-text-governors-stay-home-stay-safe-directive/

Vermont

June 8: Governor Scott announced that fully vaccinated people may resume regular activities without wearing a face covering or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, or local laws, rules, and regulations (including local business and workplace guidance). https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%2016%20TO%20AMENDED%20AND%20RESTATED%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%20NO.%2001-20.pdf

July 27: Governor Scott issued an Executive Order requiring masks to be worn in public places, indoors or outdoors, when social distancing requirements cannot be met from August 1–August 15, 2020. https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%202%20TO%20AMENDED%20AND%20RESTATED%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%20NO.%2001-20.pdf

July 24: Governor Scott issued an order requiring masks to be worn when inside and when outdoors and unable to meet social distancing requirements from August 1 to August 15. https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%202%20TO%20AMENDED%20AND%20RESTATED%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%20NO.%2001-20.pdf

June 12: On May 29, 2020, Governor Scott amended Executive Order 01-20, moving more businesses into Phase 2 of Restart Vermont. Massage therapy establishments, spas, and nail salons may resume operations in a limited, incremental, and phased capacity June 1, 2020. Industry-specific guidelines for Phase 2 close contact business can be found at https://accd.vermont.gov/news/update-new-work-safe-additions-be-smart-stay-safe-order#close-contact-business-stage-2, and guidelines for salons and barbershops can be found at https://accd.vermont.gov/news/update-new-work-safe-additions-be-smart-stay-safe-order#close-contact-business-stage-1. https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%2016%20TO%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%2001-20.pdf

June 5: Governor Scott issued EO 01-20, which allows close-contact businesses, including salons, massage therapists, estheticians, and nail professionals, to open as of June 1, 2020. Guidelines and protocols for reopening can be found here: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/business/stay-home-stay-safe-sector-specific-guidance#health-beauty. https://governor.vermont.gov/sites/scott/files/documents/ADDENDUM%2016%20TO%20EXECUTIVE%20ORDER%2001-20.pdf

May 21: According to the Vermont COVID-19 website, "Health and beauty businesses, gyms, fitness studios, salons, spas, and other similar businesses," including any retail in these establishments, remain closed. Guidelines for reopening are being developed. https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/ask-a-question

March 23: Governor Phil Scott has ordered all "close-contact businesses" in the state—spas, barbershops, nail and hair salons, gyms, and fitness centers, as well as tattoo parlors—to close by Monday, March 23, at 8:00 p.m. The new restrictions are in place until April 15, according to the order. Such businesses are "unable to comply with guidelines for social distancing," the governor's office said in a Saturday morning press release. https://www.sevendaysvt.com/OffMessage/archives/2020/03/21/scott-orders-more-businesses-salons-barbers-gyms-to-close

Virginia

December 11: On December 10, 2020, Governor Northam issued "Commonsense Surge Restrictions." As part of the restrictions, beginning December 14, 2020, through January 31, 2020, all individuals in Virginia should remain at their place of residence between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

November 10: On November 5, 2020, Governor Northam issued a fifth amendment to Executive Order 67. The amendment allows beauty salons, barbershops, spas, massage therapy establishments, and any other location where personal care or personal grooming services are performed to remove a client's facial covering when treating the areas of the nose and mouth. Guidelines for personal care and personal grooming services can be found on page 4 of the linked document. https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-67-FIFTH-AMENDED-and-Order-of-Public-Health-Emergency-Seven---Phase-Three-Further-Adjusting-of-Certain-Temporary-Restrictions-Due-to-Novel-Coronavirus-(COVID-19).pdf

July 16: Governor Northam announced Executive Order Number 63 (2020), mandating individuals to wear face coverings over the nose and mouth while inside buildings. This order includes establishments providing personal care and grooming services, such as beauty salons, barbershops, spas, and massage centers.

June 12: Governor Northam announced Phase 1 of the Forward Virginia reopening plan, allowing beauty salons, barbershops, spas, massage therapy establishments, and any other location where personal care or grooming services are performed to reopen May 15, 2020, except for Northern Virginia where the state has been delayed until May 29, 2020. Follow the link for mandatory requirements and best practices. https://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus/forwardvirginia/#856437

June 10: Effective May 15, 2020, beauty salons, barbershops, spas, and massage therapy establishments may reopen, per Executive Order 61 issued by Governor Northam. Businesses that reopen must comply with the Guidelines for All Business Sectors and sector-specific guidelines for personal care/grooming services. Businesses cannot exceed 50 percent occupancy. Service providers, employees, and clients must wear face coverings over the nose and mouth at all times. There may only be one appointment per service provider at a time, and work stations must be spaced six feet apart. Services should be limited to those that can be completed without clients removing masks. Surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected every 60 minutes, and all personal care tools must be cleaned and disinfected after each use, or discarded. https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-61-and-Order-of-Public-Health-Emergency-Three---Phase-One-Easing-Of-Certain-Temporary-Restrictions-Due-To-Novel-Coronavirus-(COVID-19).pdf

May 13: Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam issued Executive Order 62, extending the closures of the following close personal contact businesses in the Northern Virginia regions until May 28, 2020: beauty salons, barbershops, spas, massage establishments, and any other business performing personal grooming services that would not comply with physical distancing guidelines to remain six feet apart. https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-62-and-Order-of-Public-Health-Emergency-Four---Jurisdictions-Temporarily-Delayed-From-Entering-Phase-One-in-Executive-Order-61-and-Permitted-to-Remain-in-Phase-Zero-Northern-Virginia-Region.pdf

May 4: Governor Ralph Northam outlined a three-phase plan to ease restrictions on businesses, and said he will extend key provisions of Executive Order 53 at least through May 14, 2020, not May 8, 2020.https://www.governor.virginia.gov/

April 21: On April 15, 2020, Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam amended Executive Order No. 53 and extended the closure of all public access to recreational and entertainment businesses from March 24, 2020, through to May 7, 2020. These businesses include beauty salons, barbershops, spas, massage establishments, tanning salons, tattoo shops, and any other location where personal care or grooming services are performed that would not be able to comply with social distancing guidelines to remain six feet apart.​​​​​​​ https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-53-AMENDED---Temporary-Restrictions-Due-To-Novel-Coronavirus-(COVID-19).pdf

March 31: Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam issued a stay-at-home order Monday as cases of the coronavirus rise nationwide. Northam said people should only leave their homes to obtain food, supplies or medical care, or for exercise. All gatherings of more than 10 people are banned. Following his previous executive order, all restaurants and nonessential retail stores may continue to stay open if they limit the number of people in a space to 10 or less. Any person holding a gathering of 10 or more people can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. ​​​​​​​https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/490187-virginia-governor-orders-stay-at-home-order-in-the-midst-of-pandemic

March 25: Governor Northam announced on Monday that he would be signing Executive Order 53, which would take effect at the end of Tuesday (11:59 p.m. on March 24) ordering some non-essential services, including all recreation and entertainment services, to close. Hair salons, barbers, massage therapists, and similar non-essential services who can't feasibly carry out social distancing must close.​​​​​​​ https://www.whsv.com/content/news/VDH-confirms-more-cases-of-COVID-19-across-Virginia-569059231.html

Washington

June 7: Per the CDC’s recommendation adopted by the Governor, fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to wear a face covering inside or outside except when in health-care settings (correctional facilities, homeless shelters, schools, and public transportation). https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/proc_20-25.13.pdf

February 12: Massage therapists are eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccinations in Phase 1A, Tier 2. Cosmetologists may be be eligible in Phase 3. See the linked document for detailed information. https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/SummaryInterimVaccineAllocationPriortization.pdf

February 1: On January 28, 2021, Governor Inslee announced metric changes to the Healthy Washington—Roadmap to Recovery plan. Regions will now only be required to meet three of the metrics, not all four, to progress to Phase 2. In addition, region metrics will be evaluated every two weeks instead of every week. https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-announces-metric-changes-to-healthy-washington-roadmap-to-recovery-36ddf02c88ca

December 18: On November 25, 2020, Governor Inslee issued Proclamation 20-24.2 that outlines criteria for resuming non-urgent health care, which includes massage therapy services. View the conditions for resuming operations on page 4 of the linked document. A major criterion is ensuring there is sufficient supply of and ability to maintain access to adequate PPE. Post signage that encourages staff and clients to ensure hand hygiene, practice cough etiquette, and avoid touching their face. Limit appointments to those who require services for well-being and care. Follow facial covering requirements, practice physical distancing, and frequently disinfect high-touch surfaces. https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/proc_20-24.2.pdf

December 7: Washington announced phase 3 of its small business assistance grants on December 2. Applications should be filed by December 11, 2020. https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/applications-open-for-new-round-of-state-working-washington-business-grants/

November 24: On November 15, 2020, Governor Inslee issued Proclamation 20-25.8 that rolls back Washington's phased reopening due to the surge in COVID-19 cases within the state. Effective November 17, 2020, through December 14, 2020, businesses offering personal services are limited to 25 percent of indoor occupancy limits. Personal service providers include cosmetologists, hairstylists, barbers, estheticians, master estheticians, manicurists, and nail salon workers. https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/proc_20-25.8.pdf

November 13: During their November 13, 2020, meeting, the Washington Board of Massage voted to extend the ability to take online continuing education courses—instead of the live requirement—through June 30, 2021, or when the proclamation is lifted, whichever comes later. The Board will review this policy at their May 21, 2021, meeting.

September 24: New guidelines were issued September 18, 2020, that would allow facials and beard shaves to occur in Phase 2 and 3 areas so long as N95 face masks are worn. If N95 face masks are not available, a regular face mask with a face shield is allowed, but the provider must be able to prove N95 masks were not available at the time of purchase. Phase 1 providers are allowed to follow Phase 2 guidelines, but indoor services are only allowed for 30 minutes. https://coronavirus.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/PhasedChart_9-21.jpg. https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/COVID19Phase2PersonalServicesGuidance.pdf

August 20: Changes to the Phase 2 Personal Service Providers guidelines state that all clients are required to wear a face covering for all services unless otherwise directed by a medical professional under the safety and health requirements. This means that services such as facials, beard trims, and shaves are not permitted at this time without a medical director's approval. https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/COVID19Phase2PersonalServicesGuidance.pdf

August 3: The Washington Department of Licensing issued an emergency rule allowing for cosmetology and barbering students to be able to take the cosmetology exam through September 30. From an email: "Due to cosmetology testing being closed from March 18, 2020 until July 27, 2020, and to account for the reduced testing capacity when testing resumes, the Department of Licensing will allow any cosmetology, hair design, barber, manicurist, esthetician, master esthetician and instructor student’s hours that expired between March 18, 2020 and September 30, 2020, to be set to expire on September 30, 2020. This will allow students to test before their hours expire."

July 16: The Washington State Department of Health requires individuals to wear a cloth face covering in public when six feet of social distance from others cannot be met. Individuals must wear a face covering in indoor public settings.

June 1: Many counties recently entered Phase 2 in Governor Inslee’s Safe Start Washington plan. In Phase 2, personal service providers, including cosmetologists, hairstylists, barbers, estheticians, master estheticians, manicurists, nail salon workers, and cosmetology and esthetics schools, may resume business operations June 1, 2020. Click on the link to find out if your county has entered Phase 2, and follow these health and safety requirements: https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/COVID19Phase2PersonalServicesGuidance.pdf

May 13: Governor Inslee issued Executive Order 20-25.3 on May 4, 2020, extending stay at home orders through May 31, 2020, for those who do not perform essential health services. https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/20-25.3%20-%20COVID-19%20Stay%20Home%20Stay%20Healthy%20-%20Reopening%20%28tmp%29.pdf

April 20: Exam vendor DL Roope has determined it is necessary and appropriate to close test centers in Washington State through May 4, 2020 for practical and written exams for Cosmetology, Barber, Manicurists, Esthetics, Master Esthetics, and Instructors.  All candidate exam sessions scheduled between March 18, 2020, and May 4, 2020, have been canceled. DL Roope anticipates re-opening test centers on May 5, 2020, however, the specific date will be dependent on the ever-changing circumstances. Candidates will receive a new pre-registration email on or around May 4, 2020, after which they can schedule into any open session without contacting the IQT offices.​​​​​​​https://www.prometric.com/corona-virus-update

April 13: Governor Inslee’s proclamation 20-25 allows health-care providers to continue essential health services. Many services provided by massage therapists are considered nonessential. No in-person appointment is risk-free, even if the patient and massage therapist appear well. To help control the spread of COVID-19, treatment should be limited to patients with a clear and documented urgent medical need.​​​​​​​​​​https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/COVID19LMTRecommendations.pdf

April 9: On the evening of Thursday, April 2, 2020, Governor Jay Inslee announced a 30-day extension to his “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” proclamation. This is a statewide closure of entertainment, leisure, and nonessential services that will remain in effect through May 4, 2020.​​​​​​​ https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-25.1%20-%20COVID-19%20-%20Stay%20Home%2C%20Stay%20Healthy%20Extension%20%28tmp%29.pdf

April 2: The Secretary of Health has extended license expiration dates for health professions, including massage therapy licenses, for licenses up for renewal between April 1, 2020, and September 30, 2020. This extension will allow health professionals to promote continued patient safety during the COVID-19 outbreak. Because renewal payment won’t be required until September 30, 2020, it will also reduce the economic burden on those providers not able to work during this emergency.​​​​​​​ https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/LicenseExpirationExtensionFAQ

March 26: Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, imposed a Stay Home – Stay Healthy Order throughout Washington State by prohibiting all people in Washington State from leaving their homes or participating in social, spiritual, and recreational gatherings of any kind regardless of the number of participants, and all non-essential businesses in Washington State from conducting business. All people in Washington State shall immediately cease leaving their home or place of residence except: (1) to conduct or participate in essential activities, and/or (2) for employment in essential business services. For a list of essential business services, follow this link:​​​​​​​https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-25%20Coronovirus%20Stay%20Safe-Stay%20Healthy%20%28tmp%29%20%28002%29.pdf

West Virginia

May 14: On May 7, 2021, Governor Justice announced that the statewide indoor face covering requirement will end on West Virginia Day, June 20, 2021. https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2021/Pages/COVID-19-UPDATE-Gov.-Justice-announces-face-covering-requirement-to-end-on-West-Virginia-Day.aspx

July 14: Governor Justice issued Executive Order No. 50-20, announcing that individuals in the state of West Virginia must wear a face covering when in confined, indoor spaces and not able to adequately social distance from others. https://governor.wv.gov/Documents/2020%20Executive%20Orders/EO%2050-20.pdf

April 29: Businesses offering barbering, cosmetology, and other cosmetology-related services in West Virginia will be permitted to resume operations in Week 2 of the reopening schedule on May 4, 2020, provided they follow the safety guidelines provided by the State of West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. https://governor.wv.gov/Pages/The-Comeback.aspx

March 25: With most of West Virginia’s surrounding states ordering non-essential businesses to close or ordering residents to shelter in place, Governor Jim Justice said Monday that he would order residents to stay home and close non-essential businesses starting tonight due to the coronavirus. “If your business or operation is not essential, then you’ll be temporarily closed,” Justice said. Click the link to view what is considered essential services—it appears cosmetology and massage therapy services are not. https://www.theintelligencer.net/news/top-headlines/2020/03/gov-justice-orders-shutdown-of-non-essential-w-va-businesses/

Wisconsin

January 21: On January 19, 2021, Governor Evers issued an emergency order that extends the statewide mask mandate through March 20, 2021, to help mitigate the spread of the new highly contagious variant of COVID-19. https://evers.wi.gov/Documents/COVID19/EmO01-JanFaceCoverings.pdf

October 1: On September 22, 2020, Governor Evers issued Executive Order #90, declaring a public health emergency within the state of Wisconsin that will remain in effect for 60 days. 

July 31: On July 30, 2020, Governor Evers issued Emergency Order #1, mandating individuals to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when indoors or in an enclosed space, other than at a private residence. Face coverings are strongly recommended in all other settings, including outdoors when maintaining physical distancing is not possible. There is an exception in the order that allows individuals to remove a face covering while obtaining a service that requires the temporary removal of the face covering. The order is effective August 1, 2020, through September 28, 2020. https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/madison.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/9f/b9f1624e-57d6-5193-9966-b4d696062d7a/5f23100979581.pdf

July 14: The Wisconsin Department of Health Services released Personal Services Guidelines for businesses such as hair and nail salons, massage therapists, and estheticians. Review the safety protocols at the linked document. https://wedc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/COVID-19-Personal-Sevices-Guidelines_cl.pdf

April 21: Governor Tony Evers extended the emergency stay at home order through Tuesday, May 26. Massage therapy is in the list of "Health Care and Public Health Operations"(paragraph 8) and is listed as a reason people can leave their homes for services.  Social Distancing Requirements (paragraph 16) includes: " Maintaining social distancing of six (6 ) feet between people, washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer; covering coughs or sneeze with sleeves or elbows, not hands; regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces; not shaking hands;" and following all other public health recommendations issued by the DHS and the CDC. Hair salons, barbershops, nail salons, day spas, electrolysis providers, waxing salons, eyebrow-care establishments, tattoo parlors, body art establishments, and tanning facilities are still closed through May 26.  We are working with the Governor's office and other state officials to educate them about massage therapy and get clarification.

March 24: Governor Tony Evers issued an Emergency Order, which states: "Social distancing—the practice of keeping at least six feet apart from others and avoiding direct physical contact—is the only effective means of slowing the rate of infection. Despite prior emergency orders banning mass gatherings, the rates of infection continue to drastically increase, necessitating additional measures to slow the rate of infection and save lives.... Through Executive Order #72, and at the direction of Governor Tony Evers, I, Andrea Palm, Secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, order the following: ... All of the following facilities shall be closed: Salons and spas. This includes, but is not limited to, hair salons, barber shops, nail salons, day spas, electrolysis providers, waxing salons, eyebrow-care establishments, tattoo parlors, body art establishments, and tanning facilities ... For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to work for or obtain services at any Healthcare and Public Health Operations." https://www.dailyunion.com/news/covid-19/govenor-evers-order-in-full/article_55e2d2c2-e466-5e28-849b-1657edbbe778.html

Wyoming

March 11: Governor Gordon announced changes to the Wyoming Department of Health Orders, and will end the mask mandate for Wyoming March 16, 2021. The face covering protocol will remain in place in K-12 schools as a safety measure. https://health.wyo.gov/governor-gordon-says-changes-coming-to-health-orders/

December 8: On December 7, 2020, the Wyoming Department of Health issued an eighteenth continuation of the Statewide Public Health Order regarding nail salons, hair salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments (excluding medical massage), and cosmetology and esthetic services. Review the guidelines in the linked document beginning on page 3. The order is effective December 9, 2020, through January 8, 2021. https://health.wyo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Order3_EighteenthContinuation_Dec72020.pdf

July 30: Governor Mark Gordon extended the current Public Health Orders through August 15, 2020. Updated guidelines for nail salons, hair salons, and massage therapist services were issued. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AUuRblFUbAS8M0wBpGTMeOXbtb_hkA3T/view

June 17: State Health Officer Alexia Harrist issued an eighth modification to statewide Public Health Order #3 regarding nail salons, hair salons, barbershops, massage therapist services (medical massage is exempt), cosmetology, and esthetic services. The order is effective July 16, 2020, through July 31, 2020, and details guidelines these businesses must follow. View the guidelines at the linked document.

June 4: Emergency rules were adopted by the Wyoming Business Council (WBC) for the purpose of providing a regulatory framework to issue stipends to Wyoming businesses that experienced business interruptions and losses caused by mandated closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Business Interruption Stipend Program became effective June 2, 2020, and qualified individuals can follow the link provided to begin the application process. https://s3.amazonaws.com/govhawk-registers/WY_20200602_17741.htm

May 14: Wyoming State Health Officer Alexia Harrist announced that all nail salons, hair salons, barbershops, cosmetology, esthetic services, and massage therapy services (excluding massages performed for medical purposes, which are exempt from the Public Health Order) may re-open or continue to operate on May 15, 2020 according to certain conditions. https://health.wyo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/FourthContinuationStatewideOrder3_Signed.pdf

April 9: Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon extended statewide closure orders to April 30, 2020, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 amid the pandemic. His previous order was set to expire on April 17, 2020. The orders include closing public places, including schools, bars, restaurants and more, plus banning gatherings of 10 or more people.​​​​​​​ https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/gov-mark-gordon-extends-statewide-closure-orders-to-april-30/article_58b13788-3221-5bba-8348-25508a475ebc.html

March 30: Effective immediately and continuing through April 17, 2020, unless revoked or extended by the Wyoming Department of Healthy before April 17, 2020, the following are ordered closed to members of the public in order to stop the spread of COVID-19: nail salons, hair salons, and barber shops; cosmetology, electrology, and esthetics services; massage businesses (excluding massage performed for medical purposes).​​​​​​​https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z5qrWKleQRYCwdGdOu5RZxFoxKEobDuc/view