26 counties start Phase 2 of re-opening

(JUNE 6, 2020) Many businesses closed because of the coronavirus. Now they are slowly opening again. Different counties are in different phases. That means they have different rules.

26 counties begin Phase 2 this week.

The counties include:

• Friday, June 5: Benton, Curry, Douglas, Grant, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, Lane, Linn, Morrow, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler counties.
• Saturday, June 6: Baker, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Gilliam, Harney, Malheur, Sherman and Yamhill counties.
• Monday, June 8: Tillamook county.

Phase 2 means:

• Up to 50 people can be together indoors. Some large spaces (such as theaters and gyms) can have more people.
• Up to 100 people can be together outdoors.
• Bars and restaurants can stay open until 12:00AM midnight.
• More businesses can open, including pools, spas, zoos, gardens, museums, and some sports.
• Many workers can return to offices.

Deschutes, Jefferson, and Umatilla counties want to start Phase 2 soon. However, they are waiting for the state to say OK.

Clackamas, Hood River, Lincoln, Marion, Polk, and Washington counties are not ready for Phase 2 yet.

Multnomah County wants to start Phase 1 on June 12.