Gov. Reynolds proclaims State of Public Health Disaster Emergency

DES MOINES – Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency activating the public health response and recovery aspects of the State Disaster Emergency Plan, which went into effect at noon today, March 17, 2020.

The state of emergency began at noon today and will last until 11:59 p.m. on March 31. This measure is aimed to alleviate the community spread of COVID-19.

Within the proclamation, all restaurants and bars are closed to the general public except via carry-out, drive-through or delivery. All fitness centers, health clubs, health spas, gyms and aquatic centers are closed, along with movie theaters and live performance venues.

Casinos and gaming facilities were ordered to be closed, and events of more than 10 people are prohibited. Planned large gatherings and events are to be cancelled and postponed until the termination of the state of disaster.

Senior Citizen Centers and Adult Daycare Facilities are also closed.

The proclamation also allows state agencies additional flexibility in responding to the unprecedented COVID-19 situation, and supports the critical work of public health.

“These are unprecedented times and the state of Iowa will do whatever is necessary to address this public health disaster,” said Gov. Reynolds. “I have authorized all available state resources, supplies, equipment and materials to combat the spread of COVID-19. The actions taken today are necessary to protect the health and safety of all Iowans and are critical to mitigating the spread of the virus.”

To read the entire proclamation, you may visit https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%....