Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday issued her twenty-sixth supplemental emergency proclamation transitioning the state from an amended Safer at Home Order to a new Safer Apart Order, the third phase of COVID-19 pandemic health orders. Masks will no longer be mandated statewide, but individuals are strongly encouraged to wear a mask or other facial covering when in public and in close contact with other people. This order goes into effect at 5 p.m. on Friday, April 9, 2021 and extends until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 5, 2021.

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May I operate my childcare or daycare center?

Schools will be allowed to operate May 23, 2020, but are subject to social distancing and sanitation rules and guidelines.These facilities are encouraged to use enhanced sanitation and social distancing practices consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). To help prevent COVID-19 transmission, there are several things individuals and businesses can do, including wearing a mask. Requirements and recommendations for individuals, employers, employees, and customers are listed in the Safer at Home health order. In addition to complying with the requirements, childcares and daycare centers are strongly encouraged to read and implement ADPH's Guidelines for Safeguarding All Businesses and Guidelines for Child Day Care Facilities.