Gov. Kay Ivey amended her Safer at Home Order Friday, allowing additional businesses to reopen with restrictions. She also issued proclamations aimed at protecting health care workers and businesses from civil liability. 

The latest public health order during the COVID-19 pandemic takes effect Monday, May 11, and continues through May 22. It lifts the 10-person limit on non-work gatherings, but still requires individuals to maintain a six-foot social distance. The provision will allow churches to begin a gradual reopening. 

Close-contact businesses, such barber shops and salons, may also reopen, provided employees wear masks, enforce social distancing and observe sanitation rules. Restaurants and athletic facilities are allowed to open with limited access as long as guidelines are followed. Entertainment venues and educational institutions remain closed, and visitation is still restricted for nursing homes and hospitals.

In addition to the health order, Gov. Ivey issued a proclamation protecting businesses and health care providers from liability in death, injuries or property damage related to COVID-19 response unless the claimant shows evidence of wanton, reckless, willful or intentional misconduct. Legislation aimed at providing similar protections was introduced in the Senate but was tabled due to an agreement among lawmakers to only consider the budgets and local bills.

Click here to read the full public health order.