Louisiana will stay in Phase 3 until at least November 6th per the statement released by Governor Jon Bel Edwards. The continuance of the move from Phase 2 keeps the strong COVID-19 mitigation measures in place that are being observed including a continued statewide mask mandate.
“I am announcing that Louisiana will stay in Phase 3 as we continue to implement the mitigation measures developed for the state by the White House Coronavirus Task Force and supported by health experts that are having a positive impact in our battle against this public health emergency,” said Edwards. “All of the data shows improvement in the states situation because of the measure in place and due to the hard work of the people in Louisiana.”
“We know that as schools return to in person learning, restaurants and bars open more widely and more events begin to take place there is more risk to spreading COVID,” continued Edwards. “I also am concerned about how Hurricane Delta will impact our ability to operate community testing and cause people to be displaced.”
Earlier last week Edwards announced that alcohol could be sold at sporting events in the parishes that qualified and had opted to re-open bars for on-site alcohol consumption. This is the only change in the original Phase 3 order mandated in September.
In addition, the Louisiana Fire Marshal will issue guidance for fairs and festivals which will allow event producers to submit a plan for approval. Currently no outdoor fair or festival shall have more than 500 people in attendance.