Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY Report to Governor DeSantis from the Re-Open Florida Task Force Table of Contents Message from Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Re-Open Florida Task Force Membership 1 The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida 2 Guiding Principles in Re-Opening 7 Roadmap for Re-Opening 8 General Mitigation Guidance 12 General Protocols 14 The Plan: Phases of Re-Opening Phase 0: Current Phase 16 Phase 1 of Re-Opening 19 Phase 2 of Re-Opening 23 Phase 3 of Re-Opening 27 Ongoing Considerations 30 Message From Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Governor DeSantis: As you know, the onset of this pandemic has truly tested the ber of the state of Florida. We have, indeed, been living in uncertain times, ghting a faceless opponent, but rising to the occasion thanks to seless medical professionals, health administrators, rst responders, our National Guard, and your unwavering leadership. During this unprecedented health crisis, your actions have been thoughtful, measured and critical to minimizing the spread of COVID-19. When you delivered your inaugural address, you pledged to Floridians that you would use your best judgment and courage of your convictions, and during this crisis, you have done just that. Early on and throughout this pandemic, our Administration’s focus has been on attening the curve, protecting our most vulnerable residents, and ensuring access to testing and hospital capacity. With a strategic and preventive approach in our nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and long-term care facilities, our elderly were prioritized to curtail the spread of the virus and ensure their well-being. Your prompt and unrelenting emphasis on testing capabilities aided us in pinpointing the areas of our state with the highest infection rates. Your swift action to allow recently retired law enforcement, rst responders and healthcare personnel to return to the workforce emphasized an all-hands-on-deck approach to combating this silent disease. These are just a few examples of the mitigation measures that saved lives in Florida, however, we have not yet turned the page on this virus and the health and economic impact it has left behind. I have all the faith in our Administration, our healthcare professionals, our economic and industry leaders and our community to emerge even stronger. The Task Force demonstrated a commitment to a safe, incremental, and comprehensive approach. With input from public and private sector leaders, business executives and residents from the Florida Keys to the Emerald Coast, we are vested in initiatives that support our workforce, while renewing and restoring our economy. Attached herein is a report based on presentations, discussions, and public commentary. Thank you for entrusting me to lead our Re-Open Florida Task Force Executive Committee. I am honored to have moderated comprehensive discussions that explored the best way to open up the Sunshine State with public health-driven data at the forefront. God Bless, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Re-Open Florida Task Force EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Lieutenant Governor of Florida Jimmy Patronis, Florida Chief Financial Ofcer General Ashley Moody, Florida Attorney General President Bill Galvano, President, Florida Senate Speaker Jose Oliva, Speaker, Florida House Senator Wilton Simpson, President-Designate, Florida Senate Representative Chris Sprowls, Speaker-Designate, Florida House Commissioner Richard Corcoran, Commissioner of Education Jamal Sowell, President & CEO, Enterprise Florida, Inc. Mayor Carlos Gimenez, Mayor, Miami-Dade County Mayor Dale Holness, Mayor, Broward County Mayor David Kerner, Mayor, Palm Beach County John Couris, President & CEO, Tampa General Hospital Josh D'Amaro, President, Walt Disney World Resort Todd Jones, CEO, Publix Super Markets Syd Kitson, Chairman, Board of Governors for the State University System Paul Reilly, Chairman & CEO, Raymond James Financial Alex Sanchez, President & CEO, Florida Bankers Association Eric Silagy, President & CEO, Florida Power & Light Company John Sprouls, CEO, Universal Orlando Resort, Executive Vice President, Universal Parks & Resorts Patrick Sunderlin, Vice President of Operations, Global Supply Chain, Lockheed Martin Corporation Joe York, President, AT&T Florida and Caribbean INDUSTRY WORKING GROUP Agriculture, Finance, Government, Health Care, Management and Professional Services Senator Wilton Simpson, Senate President-Designate, Florida Senate Senator Rob Bradley, Appropriations Chairman, Florida Senate Representative Travis Cummings, Appropriations Chairman, Florida House Representative Tom Leek, Representative, Florida House Representative Anika Omphroy, Representative, Florida House Secretary Mary Mayhew, Secretary, Florida Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Richard Prudom, Secretary, Florida Department of Elder Affairs David Altmaier, Florida Insurance Commissioner Shannon Shepp, Executive Director, Florida Department of Citrus Sheriff Wayne Ivey, Sheriff, Brevard County Sheriff Dennis Lemma, Sheriff, Seminole County Commissioner Brian Hamman, Lee County Commission John Hoblick, President, Florida Farm Bureau Matt Joyner, Director of Governmental Affairs, Florida Citrus Mutual Alan Shelby, Executive Vice President, Florida Forestry Association Alvin Cowans, President, McCoy Federal Credit Union Alex Sanchez, President & CEO, Florida Bankers Association Amy Mercer, Executive Director, Florida Police Chiefs Association Carlos Migoya, CEO, Jackson Health System Aurelio Fernandez, President & CEO, Memorial Healthcare Systems John Couris, President & CEO, Tampa General Hospital Dr. Kevin Cairns, Florida Board of Medicine Maggie Hansen, Chief Nurse Executive, Memorial Healthcare Systems Dr. Wael Barsoum, President & CEO, Florida Cleveland Clinic David Strong, President & CEO, Orlando Health Dr. Sunil Desai, Senior Vice President, Orlando Health, President, Orlando Health Medical Group Dr. Patricia Couto, Infectious Disease, Orlando Health Dr. Rudy Liddell, President, Florida Dental Association, Brandon Dental Care Steve Bahmer, President & CEO, LeadingAge Florida Melanie Brown-Woofter, President & CEO, Florida Behavioral Health Association INDUSTRY WORKING GROUP Tourism, Construction, Real Estate, Recreation, Retail and Transportation Dana Young, President & CEO, VISIT FLORIDA Secretary Halsey Beshears, Secretary, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Kevin Thibault, Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation Mayor Lenny Curry, Mayor, Jacksonville Mayor David Kerner, Mayor, Palm Beach County Sheldon Suga, Chairman, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Blake Casper, CEO, Caspers Company Amy Schwartz, Owner, Bella Bella Restaurant Collier Merrill, President, Merrill Land Company Philip Goldfarb, President & COO, Fontainebleau Miami Beach John Tolbert, President & Managing Director, Boca Resort and Club Jose Cil, CEO, Restaurant Brands International Josh D'Amaro, President, Walt Disney World Resort John Sprouls, CEO, Universal Orlando Resort, Executive Vice President, Universal Parks & Resorts Tim Petrillo, Co-Founder & CEO, The Restaurant People Dev Motwani, President & CEO, Merrimac Ventures Chad Harrod, CEO, Harrod Properties, Inc. Walter Carpenter, Chairman, NFIB Florida Leadership Council Len Brown, Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Ofcer, PGA Tour, Inc Gary Lester, Vice President, The Villages for Community Relations Glen Gilzean, President & CEO, Central Florida Urban League Max Alvarez, President, Sunshine Gasoline Distributors, Inc. Tom Crowley, CEO, Crowley Maritime Corporation Joe Lopano, CEO, Tampa International Airport Ted Christie III, President & CEO, Spirit Airlines Rick Sasso, Chairman of North America, MSC Cruises USA Maury Gallagher Jr., Chairman & CEO, Allegiant Air AJ de Moya, Vice President & General Manager, The de Moya Group, Inc. Paul Anderson, CEO, Port Tampa Bay Ken Stiles, CEO, Stiles Corporation Bob Flowers, President, C.W. Roberts Contracting, Inc. Rob Kornahrens, President & CEO, Advanced Roong & Green Technologies Monesia Brown, Director of Public Affairs & Government Relations, Walmart Cody Kahn, Owner, Holiday Inn Resort Matthew Caldwell, President & CEO, Florida Panthers Hockey Club Sheldon Suga, Chairman, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Richard Fain, Chairman & CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line INDUSTRY WORKING GROUP Administrative, Education, Information & Technology, Manufacturing, Utilities and Wholesale Commissioner Richard Corcoran, Commissioner of Education Chancellor Jacob Oliva, Chancellor of the Division of Public Schools Dr. Michael Grego, Pinellas County Superintendent of Schools Syd Kitson, Chairman, Board of Governors, State University System Mayor Dean Trantalis, Mayor, City of Ft. Lauderdale Jamal Sowell, President and CEO, Enterprise Florida, Inc. Frank DiBello, President and CEO, Space Florida Gregory Haile, President, Broward College John Hage, CEO, Charter Schools USA Mimi Jankovits, Executive Director, Teach FL Melissa Pappas, ESE Teacher, Orange County Schools Joe York, President, AT&T Florida and Caribbean Jim Taylor, CEO, Florida Technology Council Bob Swindell, President and CEO, Broward Alliance Sheriff Morris Young, Sheriff, Gadsden County John Davis, Executive Vice President, Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce Joey D'Isernia, President, Eastern Shipbuilding Rogan Donelly, President, Tervis Nancy Tower, President and CEO, Tampa Electric Eric Silagy, President and CEO, Florida Power & Light Company Catherine Stempien, State President, Florida, Duke Energy Marva Johnson, Group President, Charter Communications Tom Vice, CEO, Aerion Corp Dan Doyle Jr., CEO, DEX Imaging REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 1 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida HISTORY In late 2019, a novel infectious disease was detected in Wuhan, China. This virus, eventually named Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), rapidly spread throughout China and eventually the world, leading the World Health Organization to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and a global pandemic. The virus reached the West Coast of the United States in January of 2020. When two Florida residents tested positive the rst week of March, Governor Ron DeSantis responded by issuing Executive Order 20-51, directing the Florida Department of Health to declare a Public Health Emergency. Eight days later, Governor DeSantis declared a State of Emergency. As of the date of this report, over 3 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported across 185 countries and territories, resulting in over 200,000 deaths. Over 32,000 Floridians have tested positive, and over 1,200 have lost their lives. STATE RESPONSE Since the introduction of COVID-19 into the State of Florida, the state has taken a strategic and methodical approach to combat the spread of this deadly virus. On March 1, Governor DeSantis instructed the State Surgeon General to declare a Public Health Emergency. On March 9, Governor DeSantis placed Florida in a State of Emergency, which provided the Governor and his team of experts with the needed exibility to take decisive actions to prepare for and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in Florida. Governor DeSantis worked to ensure that our most high-risk and vulnerable populations were protected. As a result, Governor DeSantis prohibited visitors to our state’s nursing homes, assisted living facilities and long-term care facilities statewide and directed our State Surgeon General to issue a public health advisory urging all persons over the age of 65—as well as all persons with serious underlying medical conditions—to stay home. Governor DeSantis did not take a “one size ts all” approach to mitigating the threat of COVID-19 in our large and diverse state. The plan was measured and mitigation efforts were targeted. Governor DeSantis worked with local governments where the spread of COVID-19 proliferated—primarily in Southeast Florida—to limit physical movement and mitigate the further spread of COVID-19 in these areas. When Governor DeSantis implemented statewide mitigation efforts, he did so carefully. Governor DeSantis took actions designed to limit movement and interaction across industries that posed a higher risk for transmitting the virus, like restaurants, bars, nightclubs and gyms, while preserving the capacity of our health care system. Any medically unnecessary surgical procedures were prohibited—freeing up imperative hospital bed capacity. Additionally, Governor DeSantis took important steps to limit the entry of COVID19 into our state by requiring those traveling into our state from areas with substantial community spread to isolate for a period of 14-days upon entry into Florida. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 2 The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida (continued) As the curve is attening statewide and our health care system’s capacity remains steady, Governor DeSantis is leading the charge to safely re-open the state's economy. COVID-19 IN FLORIDA At the close of April 2020, the state of Florida has achieved several critical benchmarks relating to syndromic surveillance, epidemiology and outbreak decline, and health care capability indicating successful management of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the nal weeks of April, the state saw a downward trajectory of emergency department visits for inuenza-like and COVID-19-like illness (Figures 1-3). Influenza-Like Illness Emergency Department and Free Standing Emergency Department Visits Figure 1 16,000 15,474 14,000 Number of Visits 12,000 10,000 8,916 8,000 5,777 6,000 3,797 4,000 2,769 2,049 2,000 0 3/15 3/22 3/29 4/5 4/12 Week 4/19 as of 4-28-20 COVID-Like Illness Emergency Department and Free Standing Emergency Department Visits Figure 2 12,000 11,290 Number of Visits 10,000 8,709 8,000 6,479 6,000 4,762 3,739 4,000 2,762 2,000 0 3/15 3/22 3/29 4/5 Week 4/12 4/19 as of 4-28-20 REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 3 The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida (continued) Figure 3 Percent of Emergency Department Visits Men oning Cough, Fever, or Shortness of Breath Cough Fever Shortness of Breath 16% 14% Percent of Visits 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% 01/01 01/08 01/15 01/22 01/29 02/05 02/12 02/19 02/26 03/04 03/11 03/18 03/25 04/01 04/08 04/15 Week 04/22 as of 4-28-20 Statewide, Florida has seen the percent of new positive cases steadily decrease (Figure 4). Figure 4 30 Day New Case Posi vity Rate 15.5% 11.7% 11.6% 11.4% 10.8% 10.5% 10.3% 10.0% 9.8% 9.5% 9.0% 8.8% 9.0% 8.3% 8.7% 8.8% 8.1% 7.3% Posi vity Rate 7.0% 7.7% 7.2% 6.7% 6.6% 6.0% 6.2% 6.0% 5.5% 5.2% 4.4% 3/30 3/31 4/1 4/2 4/3 4/4 4/5 4/6 4/7 4/8 4.7% 4/9 4/10 4/11 4/12 4/13 4/14 4/15 4/16 4/17 4/18 4/19 4/20 4/21 4/22 4/23 4/24 4/25 4/26 4/27 4/28 Date as of 4-29-20 REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 4 The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida (continued) Finally, Florida continued to expand its testing program for rst responders, at-risk health care workers, and vulnerable populations. The state deployed Mobile Testing Teams in conjunction with the National Guard to obtain samples in nursing homes, and pharmacies began offering on-site testing for eligible individuals. In addition, the state’s hospital system demonstrated the ability to treat patients without resorting to surge capacity models (Figure 5). Figure 5 Florida Hospital Bed Availability FLORIDA MIAMIDADE BROWARD PALM BEACH HILLSBOROUGH ORANGE DUVAL Total Licensed Beds 68,735 9,455 6,816 4,332 4,378 4,751 3,927 Total Staffed Beds 58,742 8,102 5,403 4,044 3,982 3,743 3,794 Total Available Beds 22,060 2,991 1,739 1,815 1,470 1,204 1,684 Available Capacity 37.55% 32.19% 32.19% 44.88% 36.92% 32.17% 44.39% Hospitaliza ons Change in Last 24 Hours 30 38 -12 7 4 -1 -3 Hospitaliza ons 2,131 767 324 230 41 52 58 as of 4-29-20 With these critical benchmarks achieved and a attening of the curve, the state stands ready to begin Phase 1 of a multi-phase path toward the gradual elimination of restrictions on movement, congregation, and participation in society. As we recommend lifting these restrictions, it is important to continue implementing measures that mitigate and reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Florida while prioritizing the protection of individuals over the age of 65 and those who have serious underlying medical conditions. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 5 The COVID-19 Pandemic in Florida (continued) AGENCY RESOURCES For additional information on COVID-19 in Florida, several of Florida’s agencies provide updated, detailed reports of COVID-19-related information. The Department of Health maintains a dashboard providing daily updates regarding positive cases, sources of exposure, hospitalizations, and deaths. These data are available to the public at https://oridahealthcovid19.gov/. The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration maintains a publicly accessible database of up-to-date information regarding hospital capacity, including bed availability and intensive care unit bed availability by hospital and county. The information is accessible at http://ahca.myorida.com/covid-19_alerts.shtml In addition to making information available, Florida has deployed novel tools to gather data and predict needs. Florida partnered with Google to launch a survey that collects information regarding symptom prevalence, travel history, mitigation behaviors, and exposure to COVID-19. The survey is available to Floridians and nonFloridians alike and can be accessed at https://strongerthanc19.com. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 6 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY Guiding Principles for Re-Opening PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY The rst priority in re-opening is maintaining the health and safety of all Floridians. Every measure taken by state and local governments, businesses, and individuals should consider the general health and safety of the public. PROTECTION OF THE VULNERABLE Targeted measures should focus on Floridians over the age of 65 and those who have serious underlying medical conditions to prevent exposure to COVID-19. HEALTH CARE SYSTEM READINESS Health facilities should be able to return to normal operations through a prudent approach that ensures available capacity to treat COVID-19 patients in the event of a medical surge. Health care systems also need to develop models for the sustainability of medical supplies and preservation of medical resources without the need for public augmentation of medical supplies. ECONOMIC RECOVERY The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan to re-open Florida should support the highest practicable level of business operation while maintaining public health and safety, so that all Floridians can return to work and the economy can recover. PROTECTION OF CIVIL LIBERTIES & MAINTAINING INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS Measures taken by the government must not impair the fundamental rights of Floridians, and when restrictive measures are imposed they should be the least restrictive measures feasible to accomplish a specic medically necessary objective. PUBLIC CONFIDENCE The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan to re-open Florida must be rooted in sound medical judgement and driven by health metrics so that every Floridian feels safe as they return to work and their daily activities. An effective communications strategy is critical to ensuring public condence in the COVID-19 mitigation strategies. PARTNERSHIP WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES Local communities are partners with the state as the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan to re-open Florida is implemented. Florida is a geographically large and diverse state and each of our local communities has unique insight into their individual circumstances. Local communities will play an important role in the plan to re-open Florida. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 7 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY Roadmap for Re-Opening Florida’s Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan to re-open is grounded in up-to-date data measuring COVID-19 spread, risk, and readiness. This plan is designed to mitigate the risk of resurgence and to protect the most vulnerable, while allowing for a phased path to economic recovery. This plan should occur in four phases: Phase 0, which is the current phase we are in today; Phase 1; Phase 2; and Phase 3. Entry into each phase will be consistently evaluated in close consultation with public health experts and local government ofcials. Current Phase BENCHMARKS Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Florida should track critical benchmarks on a statewide basis, the most important of which is hospital capacity to respond in the event of an unexpected surge of COVID-19. If the state shows consistent success, these guidelines contemplate advancement to the next phase. If, however, COVID-19 data suggests increased spread, the state should remain in the current phase. The state should continually review any sudden, unexplained spikes in the number of COVID-19 cases, while factoring in increases in testing and monitor any increases in hospitalizations. In extreme situations, the Governor may deploy a geographically targeted response in consultation with public health ofcials. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 8 Benchmarks for Re-Opening Using the White House Guidelines for Opening up America Again as a baseline, the Florida Department of Health has identied three data components that should be considered. SYNDROMIC SURVEILLANCE EPIDEMIOLOGY & OUTBREAK DECLINE HEALTH CARE CAPABILITY Syndromic surveillance methods look at individual and population health indicators (such as characteristic symptoms of a particular disease). The objective of this surveillance system is to provide the data and analytic tools needed to identify outbreaks or unusual trends more rapidly, leading to timely public health responses. Outbreak data captures actual reports of positive cases and traces the causes of health outcomes and diseases. It includes the study of the distribution (frequency, pattern) and determinants (causes, risk factors) of diseases. Data about hospital capacity and readiness shows whether the health care system is ready to respond in the event of an unexpected surge of COVID-19 illness. The ideal situation is for the system to be able to treat all patients without needing to use emergency surge plans and to have a robust COVID-19 testing program in place. The objective of monitoring these data is to ensure the state is managing the spread of COVID-19 and employing effective mitigation measures. Metric Metric a. Downward trajectory of inuenza-like illnesses (ILI) a. Downward trajectory of documented COVID-19 cases a. Capability to treat all patients without triggering surge capacity OR AND b. b. Downward trajectory AND of COVID-19-like illnesses (fever, cough, shortness of breath) Data Source: Early Notication of Community-Based Epidemics (ESSENCE): Florida’s syndromic surveillance system. Metric AND Downward trajectory of positive tests as a AND b. Robust testing program in place percent of total tests for at-risk (at or increasing healthcare volume of tests) workers, including emerging antibody testing Data Source: Merlin, Florida’s reportable disease data base. Data Source: Emergency Status System (ESS) for bed availability data. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 9 Roadmap (continued) HEALTH CARE CAPABILITY ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Hospitals satisfy the benchmark for health care capability if they: 1. Have the capacity to immediately convert additional facility-identied surgical and intensive care beds for treatment of COVID-19 patients in a surge capacity situation; and, 2. Have adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) available. ¢ Hospitals must have a well-established supply chain management structure and controls to maintain appropriate levels of PPE and report regularly both PPE levels and bed capacity to the Agency for Health Care Administration. ¢ The adequacy of supplies must take into consideration universal masking of all staff and patients and other guidelines per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Florida Department of Health. ¢ Hospitals should maintain, an adequate supply of N95 masks, surgical masks, gloves, surgical gowns, and other critical resources for current needs with sufcient supply remaining in the event of a surge. ¢ Hospitals must conrm the reliability of their commercial supply chains to ensure timely and adequate supplies of PPE. ¢ Hospitals should not be seeking any additional federal or state assistance requesting PPE supplies upon resuming elective procedures. ¢ Protocols to conserve PPE should be well established and hospitals must provide effective training in PPE conservation including appropriate donning and dofng of PPE. TESTING Testing for COVID-19 is a critical component to Florida’s plan to re-open in a Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. approach. As the state re-opens, the amount of testing should be further expanded so state and local health ofcials can adequately monitor the prevalence of the virus within communities. The state, in coordination with local governments, healthcare providers, private laboratories, and educational institutions, should have the capacity to reach the following average amount of tests per day over a 7-day period: Ÿ 30,000 average tests per day by May 15; Ÿ 40,000 average tests per day by June 15. Importantly, Florida has more testing capacity than actual demand. We must work to encourage the expansion of testing up to our capacity. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 10 Roadmap (continued) The state should pursue an aggressive strategy to further expand testing. Strategies should include: Ÿ Optimizing existing state data dashboards by leveraging the current reporting process for the Department of Health and Agency for Health Care Administration. Ÿ Leveraging private sector partners to scale up testing by partnering with health systems throughout the state. Local governments should develop testing strategies that expand their rate of testing in the population and reduce the need for state and federal supported testing locations. This plan should provide law enforcement agencies, health care professionals and rst responders with priority access to rapid testing, either at point-of-care, when available, or when tests are sent to laboratories. Local governments should coordinate with health care facilities within their jurisdiction in the development of their testing strategy. The rate of testing within a county should not decline as the state progresses through the phases of re-opening and each community should maintain a minimum level of testing with the goal of achieving and maintaining recommended testing capabilities. CONTACT TRACING To enhance the state and local health system’s contact tracing process, collaboration methods should be pursued for state-wide expansion of rigorous contact tracing. These methods should prioritize adoption of digital applications, increased work force and use of technological innovations. Specic objectives for an expanded contract tracing program: Ÿ Scale and implement contact tracing programs throughout the state using a phasedin approach targeting geographic regions to contain new outbreaks of COVID-19. Ÿ Leverage private sector and university partners to scale up contact tracing throughout the state. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 11 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY General Mitigation Guidance There is currently no vaccine to prevent contraction of COVID-19. We must bear in mind that, as Floridians, we are all in this together and we have a responsibility to continue practicing mitigation measures. These general mitigation guidelines are minimum recommended health protocols and are designed to be utilized at every phase of re-opening. Individuals and employers should continue to adhere to federal, state and local guidance, including information from the CDC. INDIVIDUALS Individuals are encouraged to practice good hygiene and engage in healthy activities, including outdoor activities, while practicing social distancing. The following general guidance is recommended for all individuals throughout each phase of re-opening: Ÿ Practice social distancing, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. If you are around other people, try to maintain 6 feet of separation. Ÿ Avoid hugs, handshakes, large gatherings and close quarters. Ÿ Frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least a 60 percent alcohol base if soap and water are not available. Ÿ Consider wearing a face mask or cloth face cover when entering a business, or within close proximity to members of the public. Ÿ Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Ÿ Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue and dispose of the tissue. Ÿ Clean and disinfect frequently touched items and surfaces as much as possible. Ÿ Monitor your symptoms carefully. If you feel sick, stay home. Ÿ If you believe you are infected with COVID-19, contact your health care provider immediately. Ÿ If you are older than 65 years of age or have a serious underlying medical condition, avoid large crowds. EMPLOYERS Employers should prepare their workplaces and consider how to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and lower the impact in their workplace. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 12 General Mitigation (continued) The following general guidance is recommended for all employers throughout each phase of re-opening: Ÿ Practice social distancing, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. If you are around other people, try to maintain 6 feet of separation. Ÿ Avoid hugs, handshakes, large gatherings and close quarters. Ÿ Clean and disinfect high-touch, high-trafc surface areas. Ÿ Develop and implement policies and procedures to train employees on personal hygiene expectations, including increased frequency of hand washing, the use of hand sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol and, clear instruction to avoid touching hands to face. Ÿ For businesses that are close contact or have a high potential for exposure to COVID19, require employees to wear masks, cloth face coverings or other PPE while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. Ÿ Make hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, soap and water, or similar disinfectant readily available to employees and customers. Ÿ Encourage employees who feel sick to stay home and monitor employees for COVID19 symptoms. Ÿ Do not allow symptomatic people to physically return to work until they meet CDC criteria to do so and are cleared by a medical provider. Ÿ Develop and implement policies and procedures for workforce tracing following a positive COVID-19 test by an employee or an employee who has come into contact with an individual testing positive for COVID-19. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 13 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY General Protocols These general protocols are applicable statewide and at every phase of re-opening. VISITS TO LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES & CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES Visits to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult family-care homes, long-term care facilities, adult group homes and correctional facilities should remain prohibited. Those who interact with residents and patients must adhere to strict hygiene protocols. These restrictions may be lifted by order of the Governor in consultation with state health ofcials and should not be a component of the phased-in the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan. HOSPITAL REGIONAL COLLABORATION WITH SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES, ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES & OTHER RESIDENTIAL PROVIDERS Ÿ To support safe and effective infection prevention and control strategies at long-term care facilities, hospitals should proactively engage and collaborate with skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care residential providers to share best practices on infection control. ¢ If a resident at a skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility, or other long-term care residential facility is admitted to a hospital, the hospital should only discharge those residents for return to their skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility, or other long-term care residential facility only after a negative COVID19 test result. Ÿ If available, hospitals should provide timely access to testing for residents and staff. Ÿ An alert system in hospital electronic medical record systems should be established to identify emerging COVID-19 cases at local facilities. Ÿ Additionally, hospitals should provide other identied and important resources to support the care of frail elderly and others with underlying medical conditions in these residential facilities to: ¢ Prevent the introduction of the virus into the facility; ¢ Appropriately care for those with COVID-19; and ¢ Prevent the spread of the virus in these facilities. ELECTIVE PROCEDURES AT HEALTH CARE FACILITIES Upon the expiration of Executive Order 20-72 on May 8, 2020, healthcare practitioners should resume all inpatient and outpatient elective procedures at hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, ofce surgery centers, dental, orthodontic and endodontic ofces, and other health care practitioners’ ofces. The Governor should authorize the Agency for Health Care Administration and the Florida Department of Health to take actions necessary to limit elective procedures if: REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 14 General Protocols (continued) Ÿ Hospitals do not have the capacity to immediately convert additional facility-identied surgical and intensive care beds for treatment of COVID-19 patients in a surge capacity situation; Ÿ Hospitals do not have adequate PPE available to complete all medical procedures and respond to COVID-19 treatments needs; Ÿ Hospitals seek any additional federal, state, or local assistance regarding PPE supplies once resuming elective procedures; and Ÿ Hospitals fail to provide support to and proactively engage with skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care residential providers. CHILDCARE FACILITIES (i.e. Daycares and Summer Camps) Childcare facilities, including daycares and voluntary pre-kindergarten programs, should continue to operate throughout each phase of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan and follow general mitigation protocols as outlined in this report. Childcare facilities should consider implementing the following mitigation techniques: Ÿ Require all staff to wear masks or cloth face coverings and other PPE while on premises. Ÿ Limit class size to maximize social distancing, where feasible, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. Ÿ Institute handwashing at regular intervals (i.e. every hour). Ÿ Conduct temperature checks daily. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 15 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY The Plan: Phases For Re-Opening PHASE 0: CURRENT PHASE Floridians are operating under the Current Phase as of the date of this report. Executive Order 20-91, which permitted only essential services and activities, expires on April 30, 2020. INDIVIDUALS Vulnerable Populations Individuals older than 65 years of age with a serious underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immunecompromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) are urged to stay at home and only leave their homes when necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities. Social Gatherings All individuals are urged to continue to maximize physical distance from others in public, particularly in enclosed environments. Individuals are urged to avoid socializing in groups of more than 10 people. Travel Individuals are urged to avoid all non-essential travel and cruises, including to U.S. states and cities outside of Florida with community spread of COVID-19. Individuals coming to Florida from an area with substantial community spread, including the New York Tri-State Area (Connecticut, New Jersey and New York) and Louisiana, should isolate for 14 days upon arrival in Florida. EMPLOYERS Telework Employers are encouraging teleworking, where practical. Employee Screening All employers are urged to screen employees before entering the premises for symptoms of COVID-19 or inuenza like illness and, where practical, take the temperature of each employee. Travel Employers are urged to avoid non-essential travel and adhere to CDC guidelines regarding isolation following travel. Local Government Meetings Requirements for in-person quorum for a local government body to meet are suspended and the use of technology and video conferencing for local government meetings is authorized. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 16 The Plan: Phase 0, Current Phase (continued) OTHER Bars, Pubs and Nightclubs Bars, pubs, and nightclubs that derive at least 50 percent of sales from alcohol are currently closed. Restaurants Currently, all restaurants and food establishments are limited to take-out service only. Gyms and Fitness Centers Gyms and tness centers are closed unless they are: Ÿ Amenities of hotels which have a capacity of 10 persons or less, Ÿ Amenities of a residential building, Ÿ Interior to any re or police stations, or Ÿ Located inside any single-occupant ofce building. Recreation Ÿ Public Beaches: Beach access is limited to parties of 10 or less with 6-feet distance required between groups. Beach closures remain a local government decision. Ÿ Large Venues: (i.e. movie theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, bowling alleys, arcades, playhouses, casinos) These facilities are not deemed essential activities. Large Sporting Event and Theme Parks These facilities are currently operating under restricted business measures or have closed. Vacation Rentals Vacation Rentals are currently suspended if: Ÿ Rented for periods of less than 30 days or one calendar month, whichever is less; Ÿ Advertised or held out to the public as a place regularly rented to guests; or Ÿ Otherwise regulated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation as a vacation rental pursuant to section 509.241, Florida Statutes. Ÿ This prohibition does NOT include: ¢ Hotels, motels, inns, resorts, non-transient public lodging establishments, or time share projects; ¢ Long-term rentals; or ¢ Rentals to persons performing military, emergency, governmental, health or infrastructure response, or travelers engaged in non-vacation commercial activities. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 17 The Plan: Phase 0, Current Phase (continued) Personal Services Businesses Currently, personal services businesses such as cosmetology salons, barber shops and nail salons are operating under restricted business measures or have closed. Retail Businesses Currently, many retail establishments are operating under restricted business measures or have closed. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 18 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY The Plan: Phases For Re-Opening PHASE 1 Phase 1 should begin based on the benchmarks provided for in the Roadmap for ReOpening which includes a downward trajectory of the syndromic and epidemiology criteria while maintaining adequate health care capacity. The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan sets forth minimum recommended health protocols. Individuals and businesses should adhere to all public guidance by federal, state and local ofcials, including state regulatory agencies. INDIVIDUALS Vulnerable Populations Individuals older than 65 years of age and individuals with a serious underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immune-compromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) should continue to stay at home. When leaving home, these individuals should follow social distancing and other general mitigation guidance. Those living with vulnerable individuals should be aware of the exposure risk that they could carry the virus back home after returning to work or other environments where distancing is not practical. Vulnerable populations should afrmatively inform their employer that they are a member of the vulnerable population so that their employer can plan accordingly. Social Gatherings All individuals should continue to maximize physical distance from others in public, particularly in enclosed environments. Individuals should avoid socializing in groups of more than 10 people in circumstances that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing of at least 6 feet. Travel Individuals should avoid all non-essential travel and cruises, including to U.S. states and cities outside of Florida with substantial community spread of COVID-19. Individuals coming to Florida from an area with substantial community spread, such as the New York Tri-State Area, should adhere to CDC guidelines regarding isolation for 14 days upon arrival in Florida. EMPLOYERS Telework All employers should encourage teleworking, where practical. Employers should develop plans for employees to return to work in phases, which should be implemented in subsequent phases of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan. Employee Screening All employers should screen employees before entering the premises for symptoms of COVID-19 or inuenza like illness and, where practical, take the temperature of each employee. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 19 The Plan: Phase 1 (continued) Travel Employers should avoid non-essential travel and adhere to CDC guidelines regarding isolation following travel. Local Government Meetings The in-person quorum for a local government body to meet should remain suspended and the use of technology and video conferencing for local government meetings should be encouraged. OTHER Bars, Pubs and Nightclubs Bars, pubs, and nightclubs that derive at least 50 percent of sales from alcohol should remain closed. Restaurants Restaurants and food establishments should operate at no more than 50 percent capacity, with appropriate social distancing and a minimum of 6 feet separating parties, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close sustained contact. Ÿ Parties should not exceed 10 people. Businesses should limit inside waiting areas for patrons waiting to be seated. Ÿ Businesses should thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces after each use. Ÿ Businesses should consider a reservations-only business model or call-ahead seating to manage spacing in restaurant. Ÿ Outdoor dining areas should be prioritized. Ÿ Businesses should consider posting signs to remind staff and patrons of safety and sanitization protocols. Ÿ Businesses should screen employees before work and should consider requiring employees to wear face masks or cloth face coverings while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. Ÿ Bar areas should remain closed. Ÿ Menus, if laminated, should be cleaned after each usage. Paper menus should be designed for single use and then disposed of immediately after use. Ÿ Businesses should avoid cafeteria-style dining arrangements. If salad bars or buffets are permitted efforts to mitigate risk should include barriers to block virus spread from sneezes and coughs and service utensils should be handled by staff and/or washed frequently. Gyms and Fitness Centers Gyms and tness centers may re-open but should at a minimum: Ÿ Operate at no more than 50 percent of building capacity. Ÿ Adhere to strict social distancing and sanitation protocols, including cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces. Ÿ Separate patrons by at least 6 feet. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 20 The Plan: Phase 1 (continued) Ÿ Encourage appointment only or scheduled use of equipment. Ÿ Prohibit indoor group sessions or classes. Recreation Ÿ State Parks: A limited number of state parks should open for daytime use only. During this phase, visitors will not have access to certain amenities, such as pavilions, picnic areas and campsites, due to sections of the park being closed or staff and visitor safety considerations. Ÿ Public Beaches: Beach access should be limited to parties of 10 or less with 6-feet distance between groups. Beach closures should remain a local government decision. Ÿ Large Venues: (i.e. movie theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, bowling alleys, arcades, playhouses, casinos) These venues should utilize strict social distancing protocols and should operate at no more than 50 percent capacity, with a minimum of 6 feet separating parties. Additional guidance includes: ¢ Parties should not exceed 10 people. ¢ Operators should clean and disinfect all surfaces after each use. ¢ Businesses should consider screening employees before work and require workers to wear face masks or cloth face coverings while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. Large Sporting Events and Theme Parks Ÿ Large spectator sporting events should use strict social distancing guidelines and limit occupancy of venues to 25 percent of building capacity. Ÿ Theme parks should remain closed. Vacation Rentals Vacation rentals should remain suspended. Personal Services Businesses Personal Services Businesses, such as cosmetology salons, barber shops and nail salons, should limit occupancy to 50 percent of building capacity and should consider the following mitigation measures: Ÿ Welcome patrons by appointment only and avoid group appointments that increase occupancy during the same time periods. Ÿ Regularly sanitize working stations and equipment between interactions with customers to the greatest frequency feasible. Ÿ Require all employees to wear face masks, cloth face coverings and other PPE while inside or within close proximity of members of the public. Ÿ Encourage customers to wear face masks or cloth face coverings when entering the premises and provide face masks or cloth face coverings upon request, if available. Ÿ Post signage to direct customers against congregating outside of the premises. Ÿ Remove all unnecessary, frequent-touch items such as magazines, newspapers, service menus, any other unnecessary paper products and décor from customer service areas. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 21 The Plan: Phase 1 (continued) Retail Businesses These types of businesses should consider the following mitigation measures: Ÿ Operate at no more than 50 percent of building capacity. Ÿ Post signage to direct the ow of customers within the premises to promote social distancing, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. Ÿ Regularly sanitize work stations and frequently touched surfaces. Ÿ Develop and implement policies and procedures to train employees on personal hygiene expectations, including increased frequency of hand washing, the use of hand sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol and, clear instruction to avoid touching hands to face. Ÿ Consider dedicating a certain time each day for vulnerable populations. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 22 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY The Plan: Phases For Re-Opening PHASE 2 Phase 2 will begin after the successful conclusion of Phase 1, which includes a downward trajectory of the syndromic and epidemiology criteria while maintaining adequate health care capacity. This will occur when there is no evidence of a rebound or resurgence of COVID-19 cases and satises the benchmarks outlined in this Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan. The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan sets forth minimum recommended health protocols. Individuals and businesses should adhere to all public guidance by federal, state and local ofcials, including state regulatory agencies. INDIVIDUALS Vulnerable Populations Individuals older than 65 years of age and individuals with a serious underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immune-compromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) should continue to stay at home. When leaving the home, these individuals should follow social distancing and other general mitigation guidance. Those living with vulnerable individuals should be aware of the exposure risk that they could carry the virus back home after returning to work or other environments where distancing is not practical. Vulnerable populations should afrmatively inform their employer that they are a member of the vulnerable population so that their employer can plan accordingly. Social Gatherings All individuals should continue to maximize physical distance from others in public, particularly in enclosed environments. Ÿ Individuals should avoid socializing in groups of more than 50 people in circumstances that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing of at least 6 feet. Travel Individuals may resume non-essential travel. EMPLOYERS Telework All employers should continue to encourage teleworking where practical. Employers should begin implementing plans for employees to return to work in phases. Employee Screening All employers should screen employees before entering the premises for symptoms of COVID-19 or inuenza like illness and, where practical, take the temperature of each employee. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 23 The Plan: Phase 2 (continued) Travel Employers should minimize non-essential travel and adhere to CDC guidelines regarding isolation following travel. Local Government Meetings In-person quorum for local government bodies should resume, allowing no more than 50 people in attendance, as long as social distancing guidelines can still be maintained. Continue to allow authorized technology and video conferencing for public participation at local government meetings. OTHER Bars, Pubs and Nightclubs Bars, pubs, and nightclubs that derive more than 50 percent of sales from alcohol should operate at 50 percent of building capacity with an emphasis on diminished standing room capacity and prioritizing outdoor service. Owners should consider: Ÿ Spacing tables at least six feet apart and reducing and spreading the arrangement of seating at the bar to incorporate appropriate social distancing between patrons as well as between patrons and the bar staff. Ÿ Restricting coupling of tables or table groups to 10 or fewer patrons. Ÿ Encouraging beverage orders to be taken at the table by bar or wait staff rather than at the bar counter. Ÿ Incorporating intentional and manageable trafc ows to enable responsible social distancing for patrons waiting on service when accepting orders directly at the bar. Ÿ Cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces after each use. Ÿ Menus, if laminated, should be cleaned after each usage. Paper menus should be designed for single use and then disposed of immediately after use. Restaurants Restaurants and food establishments should operate at no more than 75 percent of building capacity, with appropriate social distancing and a minimum of 6 feet separating parties, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. Ÿ Parties should not exceed 10 people. Businesses should limit inside waiting areas for patrons waiting to be seated. Ÿ Allow walk-ins but continue to emphasize a reservations-only business model or callahead seating to manage spacing effectively in restaurant. Ÿ Outdoor dining areas should continue to be prioritized. Ÿ Operators should clean and disinfect all surfaces after every use. Ÿ Businesses should consider posting signs to remind staff and patrons of safety and sanitization protocols. Ÿ Businesses should continue to screen employees before work and consider requiring employees to wear face masks or face coverings while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 24 The Plan: Phase 2 (continued) Ÿ Menus, if laminated, should be cleaned after each usage. Paper menus should be designed for single use and then disposed of immediately after use. Ÿ Businesses should avoid cafeteria-style dining arrangements. If salad bars or buffets are utilized, efforts to mitigate risk should include barriers to block virus spread from sneezes and coughs and service utensils should be handled by staff and/or washed frequently. Gyms and Fitness Centers Gyms and tness centers should: Ÿ Operate at no more than 75 percent of building capacity. Ÿ Adhere to strict social distancing and sanitation protocols, including cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces after each use. Ÿ Separate patrons by at least 6 feet. Ÿ Resume indoor group sessions and classes with restricted capacity to promote social distancing, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. Recreation Ÿ State Parks: All state parks should be opened for daytime use. Some facilities within state parks—including overnight accommodations, pavilions, interpretive programs, any large group activities or events—will remain closed. Ÿ Public Beaches: Beaches should be fully open. Ÿ Large Venues: (i.e. movie theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, bowling alleys, arcades, playhouses, casinos) These venues should utilize strict social distancing protocols and should operate at no more than 75 percent capacity, with a minimum of 6 feet separating parties. Additional guidance includes: ¢ Parties should not exceed 10 people. ¢ Operators should clean and disinfect all surfaces after each use. ¢ Businesses should considering screening employees before work and requiring workers to wear face masks or cloth face coverings while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. Large Sporting Events and Theme Parks Ÿ Large spectator sporting events should limit occupancy of venues to 50 percent of building capacity and use strict social distancing. Ÿ Theme parks may consider re-opening with capacity limits, strict social distancing and proper measures to clean and disinfect. Vacation Rentals Vacation rentals should consider the following: Ÿ Vacation rentals should open and operate for in-state reservations only (i.e. only Florida residents). Ÿ Prohibit rentals to persons traveling internationally or from a state or locality with a substantial community spread of COVID-19. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 25 The Plan: Phase 2 (continued) Ÿ Maintain 72 hours between guest check-ins to allow for effective cleaning and disinfecting of the rental unit. Ÿ Thoroughly clean and disinfect the property between rentals and post signage in all units detailing cleaning and sanitation procedures. Personal Services Businesses Personal Services Businesses, such as cosmetology salons, barber shops and nail salons, should limit occupancy to 75 percent of building capacity and should consider the following mitigation measures: Ÿ Allow service for walk-in patrons at the discretion of the business owner, so long as patron waiting areas can accommodate proper social distancing protocols, as the virus is most transmissible indoors under close, sustained contact. Ÿ Regularly clean and disinfect working stations and equipment between interactions with customers to the greatest frequency feasible. Ÿ Suggest all employees wear face masks, cloth face coverings and other PPE while inside or within close proximity to members of the public. Ÿ Encourage customers to wear face masks or cloth face coverings when entering the premises and provide face masks or cloth face coverings upon request, if available. Ÿ Post signage to discourage customers against congregating outside of the premises. Ÿ Remove all unnecessary, frequent-touch items such as magazines, newspapers, service menus, any other unnecessary paper products and décor from customer service areas. Retail Businesses Retail businesses should consider the following mitigation measures: Ÿ Operate at no more than 75 percent of building capacity. Ÿ Post signage to direct the ow of customers within the premises to promote social distancing. Ÿ Regularly clean and disinfect working stations and commonly touched surfaces at the greatest frequency feasible. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 26 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY The Plan: Phases For Re-Opening PHASE 3 Phase 3 will begin after the successful conclusion of Phase 2, which includes a downward trajectory of the syndromic and epidemiology criteria while maintaining adequate health care capacity. This will occur when there is no evidence of a rebound or resurgence of COVID-19 cases and satises the benchmarks outlined in this Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan. The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan sets forth minimum recommended health protocols. Individuals and businesses should adhere to all public guidance by federal, state and local ofcials, including state regulatory agencies. INDIVIDUALS Vulnerable Populations Individuals older than 65 years of age and individuals with a serious underlying medical condition (such as chronic lung disease, moderate-to-severe asthma, serious heart conditions, immune-compromised status, cancer, diabetes, severe obesity, renal failure and liver disease) can resume public interactions, but should practice social distancing, minimizing exposure to social settings where distancing may not be practical, unless precautionary measures are observed. Vulnerable populations should afrmatively inform their employer that they are a member of the vulnerable population so that their employer can plan accordingly. Social Gatherings Non-vulnerable populations should consider minimizing time spent in crowded environments. Travel Non-essential travel may continue. EMPLOYERS Telework Employees should resume unrestricted stafng of worksites and implement the nal phasing in of employees returning to work. For vulnerable populations, teleworking can be considered. Employee Screening Employers should take prudent and practical measures to ensure employees do not enter the premises if they believe they are infected with COVID-19 or show symptoms of inuenza like illness. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 27 The Plan: Phase 3 (continued) Travel Employees should resume non-essential travel and adhere to CDC guidelines regarding isolation following travel. Local Government Meetings These meetings should return to in-person quorum and public participation for local government bodies. OTHER Bars, Pubs and Nightclubs Bars, pubs, and nightclubs that derive more than 50 percent of sales from alcohol should operate at full capacity with limited social distancing protocols. Businesses should maintain adequate sanitation practices among employees and patrons during all hours of operation. Menus, if laminated, should be cleaned after each usage. Paper menus should be designed for single use and then disposed of immediately after use. Restaurants Restaurants and food service establishments may operate at full capacity with limited social distancing protocols. Businesses should maintain adequate sanitation practices among employees and patrons during all hours of operation. Menus, if laminated, should continue to be cleaned after each usage. Paper menus shall be designed for single use and then disposed of immediately after use. Gyms and Fitness Centers Gyms and tness centers should open to full capacity but should maintain adequate sanitation practices among employees and patrons during all hours of operation. Recreation Ÿ State Parks: State parks should be fully opened, including overnight accommodations. Ÿ Public Beaches: Beaches should remain fully opened. Ÿ Large Venues: (i.e. movie theaters, concert halls, auditoriums, bowling alleys, arcades, playhouses, casinos) These venues should re-open fully with limited social distancing protocols. Large Sporting Events and Theme Parks Ÿ Large spectator sporting events should consider reducing capacity with limited social distancing protocols. Ÿ Theme parks may return to normal operations with limited social distancing protocols. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 28 The Plan: Phase 3 (continued) Vacation Rentals Vacation Rentals should resume normal operating procedures but should continue to thoroughly clean and disinfect the property between rentals. Personal Services Businesses Personal Services Businesses, such as cosmetology salons, barber shops and nail salons, should operate under full capacity but should consider the following mitigation measures: Ÿ Continue to maintain adequate sanitation practices for employees and patrons. Ÿ Regularly clean and disinfect working stations and equipment between interactions with customers to the greatest frequency feasible. Ÿ Remove all unnecessary, frequent-touch items such as magazines, newspapers, service menus, any other unnecessary paper products and décor from customer service areas. Retail Businesses Operators of retail businesses should operate at full capacity but should continue to maintain adequate sanitation practices for employees and patrons. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 29 Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. PLAN FOR FLORIDA’S RECOVERY Ongoing Considerations EDUCATION The Department of Education and the State University System, in consultation with state health ofcials, should monitor the re-opening phases as set by this report. However, plans should be developed to resume on-campus learning, full-time, for the 2020-2021 school year. Ÿ The Department of Education should develop a plan to phase-in education, safely, during the summer months to provide supplemental education for closing achievement gaps for early learning through K-12 students who may need additional supports due to COVID-19 school closures. Ÿ Florida’s postsecondary institutions should continue to implement distance learning measures to the extent possible and develop a plan for return to on-campus instruction. SMALL AND RURAL BUSINESSES Small businesses are the backbone of the Florida economy. Getting them up and working again is critically important for Florida’s economic recovery. The guidance contained in Florida’s Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan is not a condition for a small business to operate, but the deployment of these recommended measures should occur to the greatest extent feasible to promote economic recovery while ensuring the public health and safety of all Floridians. Businesses that frequently interact with customers should institute mitigation measures outlined in the guidance within specic phases to ensure that they can conduct their operations in a safe manner and prevent the spread of COVID-19. While these measures should be universally deployed, many small businesses will be unable to afford PPE and need assistance to provide PPE or other protective equipment. As the state moves forward with the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan, resources should be provided to aid small businesses to acquire the protective materials needed to restart operations. These measures can include: Ÿ Direct grant assistance to local governments focused on small business programs to acquire PPE and other protective infrastructure such as sneeze guards, thermometers, and sanitation supplies. Ÿ Coordinated support from the Division of Emergency Management to local governments to provide protective health supplies when deciencies exist that severely impair small business operations. Additionally, rural communities have experienced the COVID-19 pandemic differently than urban areas. Florida’s agriculture industry has felt signicant economic strain through the supply chain from mitigation measures taken by restaurants and retail businesses. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 30 Ongoing Considerations (continued) Through all stages of economic recovery, Florida’s rural communities should be a focus of efforts to restore stability to the state's diverse economic base. Some examples of measures include: Ÿ Policies developed by Florida’s social services programs for food assistance should prioritize buying from Florida growers and producers, and state vendors should prioritize Florida businesses as a condition of all procurement. Ÿ Florida economic development planning should develop marketing and branding strategies to further promote rural communities and products and food produced in Florida to Floridians. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, through its emergency operation function, should continue to partner with local governments and small businesses to communicate successful mitigation strategies for businesses. TOURISM Tourism is vital to Florida’s economic well-being. Tourism marketing by VISIT FLORIDA should be reintroduced in phases that acknowledge the progression the state makes through the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan. Currently, VISIT FLORIDA is engaged in limited marketing. During the initial phases of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. plan, VISIT FLORIDA should focus on promoting in-state travel when businesses are ready. HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: BUSINESS DISASTER PLANNING Before a Disaster Strikes A disaster of any size could have an impact on business. All businesses should build a disaster continuity plan and encourage employees to create a family emergency plan. It is important to consider how a disaster could affect employees, customers and workplaces. Important considerations include: how to manage a business if access to the workplace is limited by road closures, streets are impassable, or communication is limited. Additionally, businesses should similarly plan for the unique challenges of a hurricane during a pandemic and set aside disaster supplies. This may include warehousing or storage of emergency masks, cloth face coverings or other PPE along with generators and other equipment. During a Disaster During a disaster, safety is the main concern. Businesses are encouraged to review their Business Continuity Plan to ensure the information is up to date and employees are aware of the plan and their responsibilities. It is important to monitor relevant emergency management news for weather and safety updates. In case an evacuation is ordered, business owners should secure their businesses and follow instructions by local emergency management on evacuation orders. If local emergency management ofcials order an evacuation and a business owner makes the decision to remain at their business, emergency responders will not be able to respond during the disaster. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 31 Ongoing Considerations (continued) Regarding COVID-19, the unique issues of this public health crisis may require emergency management ofcials to consider stay-at-home orders instead of evacuating people in a storm’s path. If evacuations are required, transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, may be considered in addition to buses to assist in evacuations. Further, utilizing additional school locations to add capacity to allow for greater social distancing as well as hotels may be considered in addition to current evacuation centers. REPORT TO GOVERNOR DESANTIS FROM THE RE-OPEN FLORIDA TASK FORCE 32