NC Governor Roy Cooper is now set to make an announcement about whether we will remain in Phase 2 or if we will transition to Phase 3 this coming Friday.
A move to Phase 3 would allow for higher capacity of restaurants, houses of worship, and reopen gyms and bars across our state.
Gov. Roy Cooper is holding a press conference at 4:00 PM today. He is expected to announce whether NC will move to Phase 3 or remain in Phase 2. Current Phase 2 in place until at least Friday. This decision could have an impact on future of HS sports this fall. #HSOT
— Nick Stevens (@NickStevensHSOT) August 5, 2020
Last month, the governor extended Phase 2 through August 7th and added a new requirement that all NC residents wear face masks when in public.
The decision to extend Phase 2 was made amid rising COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Many are now expecting Cooper to announce a move to Phase 3 now that cases and deaths have been on the decline in our state (although hospitalizations have continued to climb).
Phase 3 specifically includes the following changes:
- Lessen restrictions for vulnerable populations with encouragement to continue practicing physical distancing and minimizing exposure to settings where distancing isn’t possible
- Allow increased capacity at restaurants, bars, other businesses, houses of worships, and entertainment venues
- Further increase the number of people allowed at gatherings
- Continue rigorous restrictions on nursing homes and other congregant care settings
Do you think we should move to Phase 3?
