On June 3, Gov. Kate Brown announced details about Phase 2 of reopening, under her framework for building a safe and strong Oregon. Thirty-one counties were eligible to apply to enter Phase 2 on Friday, June 5.

“I want to say thank you to each and every Oregonian who has made sacrifices to protect the health and safety of our communities,” Gov. Brown said. “Your leadership –– you choosing to be both kind and smart –– is why we have been able to start the reopening process.

“Any reopening comes with risk. That’s just a fact of life right now. So we need to reduce the risk that comes with reopening. So, fellow Oregonians, you have another chance to shine. A chance to show that you are looking out for your friends, family, and neighbors.”

The Oregon Health Authority reviewed the COVID-19 metrics and data for counties that applied for Phase 2, and on June 4, the Governor’s Office announced the initial counties entering Phase 2, which included Harney County.

New guidance for Phase 2

Counties that entered Phase 2 will be able to continue with the reopening process, following updated health and safety guidance:

• Gathering limits will be raised to 50 people indoors, and 100 people outdoors.

• Indoor and outdoor venues, including theaters and churches, with six feet of physical distancing and other measures in place, can reach a COVID-19 occupancy limit of up to 250.

• Offices can begin reopening, and employees can return to workplaces with physical distancing and other measures in place. However, remote work is still strongly recommended whenever possible.

• Increased travel will be allowed throughout Oregon. However, staying local is still recommended to prevent overloading county health systems.

• Curfews for restaurants and bars will be extended to midnight.

• Pools and sports courts will be allowed to reopen under new guidance.

• Indoor and outdoor activities — such as bowling, batting cages, and mini golf — will be allowed to reopen under new guidance.

• Recreational sports can resume in a limited form, under strict physical distancing guidance.

Additional statewide guidance

For all counties, including those remaining in Phase 1 or on baseline status:

• Zoos, gardens, and museums can reopen in a limited fashion.

• Professional and collegiate sports teams can return to training in their facilities with physical distancing and health and safety measures in place.

Updates to sector-specific guidance will be made available at coronavirus.oregon.gov. The Governor’s Office continues to work with the Oregon Health Authority to update health and safety guidance for the reopening process. Members of the public with questions about the reopening process are encouraged to visit coronavirus.oregon.gov.