SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 18, 2020 (Gephardt Daily) — Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert has issued an executive order adopting version 4.8 of the phased guidelines on the state’s COVID-19 plan.
The updated guidelines allow schools in the Orange (medium risk) phase to open and provide some level of in-person instruction. The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until August 7.
Most of Utah’s Orange phase schools are located in Salt Lake County.
The Utah Department of Health issued a public health order mandating the use of face coverings in all K-12 schools. The order establishes certain exemptions that will apply when an individual is maintaining physical distancing of at least six feet apart from another individual, when the individual is eating or drinking, and if the individual has a medical condition, mental health condition, or a disability that prevents the wearing of the face covering.
Herbert has issued the following statement:
“We want to ensure we have the safest environment possible for students, teachers, and faculty as they return to school this fall. We have established guidelines on how districts can follow these mandates and we trust local school districts and charters to use common sense in creating thoughtful reopening plans for the families and communities they serve.”
The public health order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until Dec. 31.
View the updated phased guidelines here. View the full executive order below.
