Governor Reynolds Announces Elimination of Capacity Restrictions at Iowa Businesses

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds made a surprising announcement at her press conference late Wednesday morning. After revealing more positive data about the state's continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, she announced that she was lifting the 50 percent capacity limit for Iowa businesses.

Reynolds said that effective at 8 a.m. this Friday, June 12, the limit would be lifted at all Iowa businesses. However, some businesses must continue to maintain 6-foot social distancing. Those include bars, theaters, and restaurants.

In her press conference that you can view below, Reynolds announced,

Eliminating the capacity restrictions will allow businesses the flexibility to adjust their specific operations accordingly to best meet the needs of their employees and customers. Establishments shall implement reasonable measures to ensure social distancing, increase hygiene practices, and other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19,  consistent with the guidance that's been provided by the Department of Public Health. Swimming pools may open under these same guidelines, and senior centers and adult day care programs may also open if they comply with specific guidance being issued by the Department of Public Health."

Before making the announcement, Reynolds talked about the fact that more than 200,000 Iowans have now been tested for COVID-19. She also discussed the continuing decrease in the rate of hospitalizations from the virus in Iowa, and that the state now has a minimum 14-week supply in all essential PPE (personal protective equipment) categories for healthcare workers across the state.

You can read the full proclamation from Governor Reynolds HERE.