Governor Cuomo has given the word businesses around the state have been waiting for: reopening can proceed to Phase 2 in the five regions of the state that are now on Phase 1...including Rochester and the Finger Lakes.
Offices can reopen, real estate services and in-store retail shopping would be allowed to start back up. Hair salons and barber shops will be restricted only to hair-cutting, coloring and styling. Nail services and beard trimming won't be allowed. Indoor malls will NOT be allowed to open as operators had expected. Restaurants are not included in Phase 2, nor are gyms and spa services.
Hair stylists and barbers will be required to wear a face covering AND a face shield. And according to the governor, they'll have to be tested twice a month for COVID-19. Cuomo says if everyone is smart, wears a mask and follow distancing rules, we won't see the coronavirus cases ramp up again.
Meanwhile, he says New York City is on track to begin reopening the week after next
Chamber of Commerce President Bob Duffy says Malls were not included in today's Phase 2 opening announcement because of concerns that too many people would gather there. Duffy says a virtual meeting tonight will push the governor to allow businesses which have their own outside entrances at malls to open. He's hoping that will be finalized tonight. The malls themselves will likely be coming in Phase 3, in two more weeks.