Gov. Reynolds: Hair salons, massage parlors, tattoo establishments may reopen in limited capacity

Starting at 5 a.m. on Friday, more restrictions have been lifted in all of Iowa’s 99 counties. In the 22 remaining counties not among the initial 77, establishments such as restaurants, fitness centers, libraries and racetracks can reopen in limited capacities. 

During her Wednesday press conference at the State Emergency Operations Center in Johnston, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced the limited reopening of businesses such as hair salons, barbershops, massage parlors and tattoo establishments. This coincidees with the limited reopenings of restaurants, fitness centers, libraries and racetracks in counties such as Dallas, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk and Woodbury.

“I have full confidence in Iowans, and I have full confidence in our businesses to do the right thing,” Reynolds said during the press conference. “They have demonstrated that, over and over again. They’re being thoughtful and cautious in opening back up. We’re going to continue to move forward, and we’re going to do it in a safe and responsible manner. Hopefully, we’ll continue to see good signs and we can continue to get Iowa back on track.”

Barbershops and salons that offer cosmetology, electrology, esthetics, nail technology, manicuring and pedicuring must limit the number of customers to 50 percent of its legal occupancy capacity. Other limitations include operating on an appointment basis to ensure that all customers are at least six feet apart when performing cosmetology practices and other hygienic and public health measures.

Massage therapy and tattoo establishments may reopen, as well, but must take reasonable measures to ensure social distancing of employees and patrons, increased hygienic practices and other public health measures.

Bars and casinos are still ordered to remain closed, according to Reynolds.

This is the latest of Reynolds’ relaxations of the State Public Health Emergency Declaration, which began at noon on March 17, due to the community spread of COVID-19.

Reynolds had previously allowed for elective surgeries and limited farmers markets on April 24, before opening restaurants, fitness centers, shopping malls, public libraries and retail stores to half of their maximum capacities on May 1. Churches, synagogues and temples were included in May 1’s proclamation, but many places of worship opted to continue virtual services until the end of May or early June.

On May 8, Reynolds then eased restrictions on dental services, campgrounds, tanning facilities and medical spas.

“If Iowans and businesses can continue to do what we’re seeing, we’re going to continue to open things up and bringing more things online in a very phased approach,” Reynolds said.

However, gatherings are still restricted to 10 or less people and social distancing is still recommended. The state of emergency is set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on May 27.