Be Smart, Stay Safe

Addendum 14 extends State of Emergency to June 15

Slow reopening continues

The spread of COVID-19 continues to slow in Vermont, but Gov Scott and Department of Health Commissioner, Mark Levine, MD, caution that the state must also consider neighboring states where the virus is much more prevalent and outbreaks are still occurring.

“Vermonters have stepped up in a time of crisis, following guidance from the beginning to quickly slow the spread and keep our health care system from being overwhelmed. These efforts have saved hundreds and hundreds of lives and given us time to build the testing and tracing capacity we need to contain future outbreaks,” said Governor Scott. “The important thing to remember is that the smarter we are about our individual actions, and the more disciplined everyone can be during each step forward, the more steps we’ll be able to take to safely restart Vermont.”

The “Be Smart, Stay Safe” order encourages continued vigilance in physical distancing, staying close to home, wearing a mask in public settings, hand washing and more. People aged 65 and older and those with underlying medical conditions are urged to continue to shelter in place to avoid serious illness.

Today’s order also allows the limited resumption of campgrounds, marinas and lodging facilities, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, inns, short term rentals, parks for recreational vehicles and campgrounds. These facilities can open May 22 for Vermont residents only, or those who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement, and will be subject to strict health and safety standards and guidance from the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.

Gov Scott also indicated that restrictions will slowly continue to be lifted if the data continues in the right direction.