Special Report
Every State’s Rules for Staying at Home and Social Distancing
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Despite health experts’ warning of the dangers of reopening the economy too soon, every week more states are allowing stay-at-home orders to expire. Governors have lifted some restrictions on social gatherings and allowed previously deemed nonessential businesses to reopen, albeit in phases. COVID-19 has killed more than 85,000 people in the U.S. as of May 14, about 10,000 more than a week ago. More than 1.4 million people nationwide have tested positive.
Overall, the rate of infection growth in the U.S. has slowed, which may indicate that social distancing measures are having an effect. States have imposed stay-at-home orders and other measures at different times and at varying degrees of restrictiveness. In some states, sheltering in place and wearing face coverings is still the law, while in others they are a recommendation.
To determine each state’s social distancing measures and restrictions on movement, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed executive orders from governors since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in the United States at the end of January.
Anti-lockdown protests have been small, considering the number of participants and locations, but they have been very vocal. These protesters are pressing for an end to the restrictions even though the numbers of confirmed cases and deaths related to the coronavirus in the United States continue to grow. Here are the states where COVID-19 is spreading the fastest right now.
Click here to see every state’s rules for staying at home and social distancing
Click here to read our methodology
Alabama
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 219 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 10,700)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 9 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 450)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,825 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 138,103)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/4/2020): 22
> Population: 4,887,871
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. A new safer-at-home policy is in effect but set to expire on May 22. Some businesses such as retail stores have been allowed to reopen at 50% capacity, but they still have to follow social distancing guidelines. Limited operations of restaurants, hair and nail salons, and gyms are now allowed. Restaurants must limit tables to eight persons and maintain 6-foot distances between dining groups. Gyms, athletic facilities, and hair and nail salons — which have to limit capacity to 50% — also must follow social distancing and sanitation rules. Gyms can’t offer sports that require close contact with others. Sharing sporting apparatus and equipment is also banned. The ban on 10-person restriction on nonwork gatherings has been lifted.
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Alaska
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 52 per 100,000 — 3rd lowest (total: 383)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 1 per 100,000 — 3rd lowest (total: 10)
> Tests as of May 14: 4,156 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 30,649)
> Days between first case on 3/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 16
> Population: 737,438
The stay-at-home order expired on April 21. The state government allowed nonessential businesses to reopen for regular business hours. There can be no waiting lines in places providing personal services like hair salons. Restaurants are now open for dining. They were allowed to expand to 50% capacity from the 25% capacity allowed until a week ago. Opening at 50% capacity also applies to retail and other businesses statewide. Bars, gyms, libraries, theaters, and other entertainment venues can reopen at 25% capacity. A 10-foot distance is required between people indoors. Religious and social gatherings may include as many as 50 people.
Arizona
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 170 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 12,176)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 8 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 594)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,312 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 165,810)
> Days between first case on 1/26/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/31/2020): 65
> Population: 7,171,646
The stay-at-home won’t be extended after it expires on May 15. Elective medical procedures have been allowed to resume since May 1 with restrictions. Some nonessential businesses opened on May 4 but only for delivery services. In-store sales were allowed to resume on May 8. Restaurants opened for dine-in on May 10 but must limit capacity. Gyms and spas were allowed to reopen on May 13, and movie theaters can reopen after May 15, but they have to abide by federal social distancing rules. Also after May 15, major leagues sports can resume games but with no fans. Residents living with elderly relatives or with people with preexisting conditions are encouraged to keep working from home.
Arkansas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 141 per 100,000 — 10th lowest (total: 4,236)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 3 per 100,000 — 7th lowest (total: 97)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,516 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 75,818)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 3,013,825
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order, but nonessential businesses were closed. A phased reopening plan has been put in place. Gatherings in open outdoor spaces like golf courses are allowed. Hair and nail salons, spas, gyms, and other personal care establishments have been allowed to reopen. Restaurants can resume dine-in services but with limitations — they can only seat a third of their total capacity. Rental of campsites, cabins, lodges, and RVs is allowed. People with RVs can stay overnight in campgrounds but bath houses remain closed. State Parks will open visitor information centers, museums and exhibits, gift shops, golf pro shops, marinas, and equipment rental on May 15. The number of visitors will be limited, and social distancing will be enforced.
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California
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 180 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 71,141)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 7 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 2,934)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 1/25/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/19/2020): 54
> Population: 39,557,045
A stay-at-home order, which has no set end date, is still in effect, though some restrictions are being lifted. While Californians are still ordered to stay home or at their place of residence, except for permitted work, local shopping, or other permitted errands. Small businesses were able to reopen for curbside pickup starting May 8. Businesses will have to follow social distancing guidelines, and employees will have to wear protective gear. Shopping centers, strip malls, and some offices can reopen. Twelve counties now allow in-store retail shopping and dine-in restaurant service, with limitations. Booksellers, sporting goods stores, florists, clothing stores, and other retail shops are allowed to sell merchandise with curbside pickup.
Colorado
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 359 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 20,475)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 19 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 1,062)
> Tests as of May 14: 1,975 per 100,000 — 15th lowest (total: 112,505)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/26/2020): 21
> Population: 5,695,564
The stay-at-home order expired April 26. A phased opening of the economy started on April 27. The state entered a safer-at-home phase, which means residents are recommended to stay home but not required to by law. Grocery stores, firearm stores, marijuana dispensaries, and gas stations are open. Retail businesses reopened with curbside pickup. Offices can reopen with 50% of the workforce. Salons and other places offering personal services can also reopen if implementing best practices, which entail everyone wearing masks and gloves, customers having to wait outside, and places where people sit sanitized frequently. Elective medical services have resumed.
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Connecticut
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 976 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 34,855)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 87 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 3,125)
> Tests as of May 14: 4,001 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 142,943)
> Days between first case on 3/8/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 15
> Population: 3,572,665
A stay-at-home order is in effect until May 20. Grocery stores operate at half capacity. Safe-stores guidelines are mandated with every other register line out of service. A 6-foot minimum distance is required outdoors. People must wear a face mask in public when a 6-foot distance from others cannot be maintained. Parking capacity is limited at certain parks, and walk-ins are banned to limit the number of visitors. Social and recreational gatherings of more than five people, and religious gatherings of more than 50 people are banned.
Delaware
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 719 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 6,952)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 26 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 247)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 13
> Population: 967,171
The stay-at-home order has been extended until May 31. When out, people must maintain at least a 6-foot distance from each other. All beaches are closed except for people exercising or walking their dogs. People can still go out to get groceries, exercise, take care of others, and other essential activities. All visitors older than 13 must wear masks when inside state parks, wildfire areas, and reserves. Travelers from outside states have to self-quarantine for 14 days. The state government is anticipating beginning to gradually reopen the economy starting June 1.
Florida
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 203 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 43,210)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 9 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 1,875)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,862 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 609,574)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 33
> Population: 21,299,325
The stay-at-home order expired on May 4, but social distancing guidelines are in place at least until mid-May. Beaches reopened for essential activities in parts of the state on April 17. Retail stores and restaurants, except in the most populous counties, are now allowed to reopen but at 25% capacity. Palm Beach was allowed to enter Phase One reopening on May 11. Broward and Miami-Dade are expected to follow on May 18. Senior citizens and individuals with significant underlying medical conditions must stay at home. Libraries and museums can open at 25% capacity. Elective medical procedures can now take place. Barber shops and salons can reopen in most of Florida starting May 11, but shops in southern Florida will remain closed. Bars, gyms, schools, and vacation rentals remain closed.
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Georgia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 337 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 35,429)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 14 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 1,517)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,604 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 273,904)
> Days between first case on 3/2/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 32
> Population: 10,519,475
The shelter-in-place order expired on April 30, except for people 65 and older and other at-risk individuals. They have to shelter in place at least until June 12. Some businesses, including gyms and hair salons, were allowed to reopen (even though many opted to remain closed), and elective surgeries resumed beginning April 24. Places of entertainment such as bowling alleys, theaters, restaurants, and private social clubs are allowed to open as well. Strict social distancing and sanitation guidelines are in place at least until June 12. Bars, nightclubs, amusement parks, public swimming pools, and live performance venues remain closed until May 31.
Hawaii
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 45 per 100,000 — 2nd lowest (total: 638)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 1 per 100,000 — the lowest (total: 17)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 19
> Population: 1,420,491
Stay-at-home, work-at-home orders are in effect until May 31. People must quarantine themselves for two weeks if traveling between islands or risk fines up to $5,000 and a year in prison. Only people seeking medical attention may leave their quarantine zones, the location residents have specified to be their quarantine zone on the mandatory State of Hawaii Department of Agriculture Plants and Animals Declaration Form. The state government will be taking a phased-in approach to reopening the economy. Schools are closed through the rest of the school year. Everyone over age 5 has to wear a mask outdoors.
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Idaho
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 121 per 100,000 — 8th lowest (total: 2,126)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 4 per 100,000 — 9th lowest (total: 69)
> Tests as of May 14: 1,913 per 100,000 — 13th lowest (total: 33,556)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 12
> Population: 1,754,208
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. The first stage of the reopening plan started with places of worship and certain nonessential businesses being allowed to reopen if they adhere to strict social distancing. The 14-day self-quarantine for people entering Idaho continues through the month of May. People are encouraged to wear masks when in public and work from home whenever possible. Nonessential travel is now allowed. The second phase of reopening will start on May 16. Restaurants, indoor gyms, nail salons, and other close-contact businesses will be permitted to reopen then. People who enter Idaho from out of state must self-quarantine for 14 days.
Illinois
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 665 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 84,698)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 30 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 3,792)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,841 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 489,359)
> Days between first case on 1/24/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/21/2020): 57
> Population: 12,741,080
A shelter-in-place order is in effect at least through May 30. Some restrictions were loosened starting May 1, including resumption of elective surgeries, golfing, and allowing nurseries and garden centers to reopen. Retail stores can offer delivery or pickup services. State parks have started a phased reopening. Fishing and boating is now allowed, but in groups of no more than two people. Anyone over the age of 2 must wear a face covering when indoors at a public space or when outdoors at a public place where a 6-foot distance between people cannot be maintained.
Indiana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 381 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 25,473)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 22 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 1,482)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,303 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 154,083)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 18
> Population: 6,691,878
The stay-at-home order expired on May 4. All but three counties — Marion, Lake, and Cass — have been allowed to start reopening. Gatherings of up to 25 people are allowed. Malls and other nonessential retailers as well as restaurants can open at 50% capacity. Bars and gyms remain closed. Churches can begin holding services with no limits on the number of attendees. Retail stores, public libraries, and offices have opened. Some businesses, like dentists, greenhouses, nurseries, and pet groomers, are allowed to reopen with restrictions. Outside, people must maintain a 6-foot distance from others and are encouraged to wear face coverings.
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Iowa
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 433 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 13,675)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 10 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 318)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,829 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 89,294)
> Days between first case on 3/8/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 3,156,145
The state never issued a statewide stay-at-home order, but instituted some restriction on nonessential businesses. Restrictions that were previously lifted in 77 of Iowa’s 99 counties are now lifted statewide. Restaurants, retail stores, and malls can reopen at 50% capacity. They have to allow or require the use of masks or face coverings. Dental services can resume, campgrounds can open, and fitness centers can open but to customers with appointments only. The ban on elective surgeries was lifted on April 27. People over 65 or who are at higher risk of more severe COVID-19 illness are encouraged to stay home. People who have been in contact for more than 30 minutes with a person who was confirmed to have COVID-19 should isolate for 14 days.
Kansas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 256 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 7,468)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 6 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 164)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 23
> Population: 2,911,510
The temporary statewide stay-home order expired on May 3. A phased reopening began on May 4. Restaurants can open if they maintain social distancing and limit crowds to no more than 10. Hair salons, gyms, museums, and theaters remain closed. Organized sports, community swimming pools, festivals, parades, and graduation ceremonies are not allowed. Gatherings of more than 10 people are still prohibited. Bars and restaurants must preserve a 6-foot distance between tables, booths and barstools.
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Kentucky
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 158 per 100,000 — 14th lowest (total: 7,080)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 7 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 326)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,627 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 117,395)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/26/2020): 20
> Population: 4,468,402
A stay-at-home order is in effect until further notice. Travel from Kentucky to other states is limited. Residents can leave the state only to care for loved ones, see a doctor, go to work, if they have a court order, or to get groceries. If people leave for other reasons, they have to self-quarantine for 14 days. Phase one of the state’s gradual reopening started on April 27, when nonessential medical services were allowed to resume with restrictions. Manufacturing and distribution, construction, vehicle or vessel dealerships, office based businesses, photography, and pet grooming and boarding are allowed to resume operations with limited capacity.
Louisiana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 701 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 32,662)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 50 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 2,315)
> Tests as of May 14: 5,105 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 237,904)
> Days between first case on 3/9/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 14
> Population: 4,659,978
The stay-at-home order will be allowed to expire on May 15. Phase one of reopening the economy will begin then and last at least through June 5. Some restrictions will stay in place. Everyone in Louisiana should wear masks when in public. Banks, gas stations, and veterinary services are open. Restaurants can open at 25% capacity. They need to have 6 feet between customers and 10 feet between tables. Gatherings are limited to 10 people. Movie theaters, churches, and gyms can reopen with strict physical distancing protocols.
Maine
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 113 per 100,000 — 7th lowest (total: 1,515)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 5 per 100,000 — 13th lowest (total: 66)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/2/2020): 21
> Population: 1,338,404
The stay-at-home order is set to expire on May 31. An executive order requiring travelers to the state to self-quarantine for 14 days is in effect at least until then as well. Residents can visit businesses such as hair salons and barbershops under Phase one of the reopening, which started May 1. Under the Rural Reopening Plan, retail stores in 12 of 16 counties opened on May 11. Drive-in movies, stay-in-your-vehicle religious services, and golf are allowed. Another phase of the reopening is scheduled for June, when restaurants, fitness centers, and retail stores may be allowed to reopen.
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Maryland
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 594 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 35,903)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 29 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 1,748)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 25
> Population: 6,042,718
The stay-at-home order will be allowed to expire on May 15. A safer-at-home advisory will be in effect but it won’t be enforced. Manufacturing, retail, haircuts, and worship services will be allowed to resume with limitations. Social distancing is still required everywhere. Public beaches have been allowed to open for exercise, but social distancing must be followed. Boating is permitted, but no more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew. Shooting ranges are allowed to open. Gatherings of more than 10 people are banned. Businesses deemed nonessential remain closed.
Massachusetts
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 1,166 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 80,497)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 77 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 5,315)
> Tests as of May 14: 5,941 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 410,032)
> Days between first case on 2/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 52
> Population: 6,902,149
The stay-at-home order and an order for nonessential businesses and organizations for in-person operations to remain closed have been extended until May 18. Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited. Medical marijuana shops are still open, but recreational marijuana shops are closed. Everyone over age 2 must wear a face mask in public places, including grocery stores, pharmacies, retail stores, and taxis. Grocery stores and pharmacies have to provide special shopping hours for residents 60 and older.
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Michigan
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 484 per 100,000 — 10th highest (total: 48,391)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 47 per 100,000 — 6th highest (total: 4,714)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,298 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 329,639)
> Days between first case on 3/10/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 14
> Population: 9,995,915
The stay-at-home order has been extended until at least May 28. Residents can be criminally penalized for breaking social distancing rules. Restrictions on activities such as boating and golfing have been eased. Big retailers are now allowed to resume selling nonessential items in stores. Auto plants are scheduled to restart on May 18 at 25% capacity. Construction, real estate, and more outdoor work resumed May 7.
Minnesota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 230 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 12,917)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 11 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 638)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,175 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 122,035)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/27/2020): 21
> Population: 5,611,179
The stay-at-home order was extended until May 18. People can still leave their homes to pick up essential items such as groceries or food, prescriptions, and gas, to relocate for safety reasons, or go to work if their job is deemed essential. Some recreational activities, including golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, and hiking have been allowed to resume since April 18. Nonessential retail businesses can start offering curbside pickup and delivery services. Industrial jobs that are not customer-facing can return to work as long as social distancing and sanitary procedures are in place. Employees who can work from home should continue to do so.
Mississippi
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 338 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 10,090)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 16 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 465)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,350 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 100,048)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/3/2020): 23
> Population: 2,986,530
The shelter-in-place order expired on April 27. Only medically vulnerable people are required to stay home. A safer-at-home order is in effect until May 25. Some nonessential businesses like florists and clothing stores are allowed to deliver or offer curbside pickup. Retail businesses can reopen at no more than 50% of their store capacity. Places that cannot avoid sustained person-to-person contact, such as theme parks, salons, or gyms, are to remain closed. Restaurants can open at no more than 50% seating capacity in indoor and outdoor dining areas. Parks and public swimming pools can also reopen, but people have to keep a distance between one another of at least 6 feet.
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Missouri
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 166 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 10,142)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 9 per 100,000 — 25th highest (total: 542)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,072 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 126,935)
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/6/2020): 30
> Population: 6,126,452
The stay-at-home order expired on May 3. All businesses may reopen but have to follow social distancing guidelines. Restaurants, manufacturing plants, gyms and hair salons, and churches can resume activities. Sporting events and social gatherings can resume, though local governments can impose stricter limitations. Large venues, concerts, and movie theaters are allowed to resume activities, but the seating has to be spaced out to comply with social distancing guidelines. Retail outlets, including grocery stores, must limit the number of customers allowed inside. The ban on social gatherings has been lifted, but people must adhere to social distancing.
Montana
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 43 per 100,000 — the lowest (total: 462)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 2 per 100,000 — 4th lowest (total: 16)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,245 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 23,852)
> Days between first case on 3/13/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 15
> Population: 1,062,305
The shelter-in-place order expired April 26. A phased reopening started on April 27. Churches resumed Sunday services, and retailers reopened with social distancing guidelines in place. Restaurants and bars were allowed to reopen in some form beginning May 4. Schools have had the option to reopen starting May 7. The travel quarantine requirement remains in effect, and people arriving from another state or country for non work-related purposes must quarantine for 14 days. Health clubs, theaters, and museums can reopen after May 15. Gatherings of more than 10 people are discouraged.
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Nebraska
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 470 per 100,000 — 11th highest (total: 9,075)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 6 per 100,000 — 15th lowest (total: 107)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,769 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 53,427)
> Days between first case on 2/17/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 1,929,268
The state never issued a stay-at-home order. Places of worship no longer have a 10-person limit, but families must physically distance themselves from one another. Restaurants can open in certain regions and at 50% capacity. All dining parties are restricted to no more than six people. Child care facilities can now open and have up to 15 children per room. Hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, and massage therapists may reopen but can’t allow more than 10 people in, and everyone, including patrons, must wear masks.
Nevada
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 213 per 100,000 — 22nd lowest (total: 6,476)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 11 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 331)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,200 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 66,754)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/1/2020): 27
> Population: 3,034,392
A stay-at-home order will be allowed to expire on May 15. All outdoor activities are allowed as long as people maintain 6-foot physical distancing. Some restrictions have been loosened. Retail stores, including cannabis outlets, can now offer curbside service. Restaurants, retail stores, barbershops, hair salons, and some brewpubs can resume limited operations. Gyms and pools can reopen as well. Professional sports can resume but without fans. Some casinos will reopen soon.
New Hampshire
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 243 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 3,299)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 11 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 150)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/2/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/27/2020): 25
> Population: 1,356,458
An amended stay-at-home order is an effect until May 31. People can go out but must maintain at least 6 feet of social distance, use proper hand hygiene, and wear a mask whenever possible. Elective medical procedures have resumed. There is a temporary prohibition on scheduled gatherings of 10 or more attendees. Seacoast beaches remain closed. State parks are open but require reservations in some areas. Golf courses (but not clubhouses), barbers and hair salons (but with reservations only), retail stores (at 50% capacity), and drive-in movie theaters can reopen with some restrictions. Restaurants can open for outdoor food services starting May 18.
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New Jersey
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 1,589 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 141,560)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 109 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 9,702)
> Tests as of May 14: 4,955 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 441,450)
> Days between first case on 3/4/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/21/2020): 17
> Population: 8,908,520
A stay-at-home order is in effect indefinitely. Nonessential businesses, including casinos, are closed. Child care centers are closed except for the children of essential workers. Restaurants and bars are closed except for takeout or delivery. Grocery stores, medical marijuana dispensaries, gas stations, and convenience stores are among the retail businesses that can stay open. State parks have reopened, but picnicking and swimming are not allowed. Golf courses are open with limits as well. Everyone has to wear a cloth mask in grocery stores and other essential retail businesses.
New Mexico
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 256 per 100,000 — 21st highest (total: 5,364)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 11 per 100,000 — 20th highest (total: 231)
> Tests as of May 14: 5,489 per 100,000 — 5th highest (total: 115,011)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 13
> Population: 2,095,428
A stay-at-home order is in effect through May 15 at least. Gatherings of more than five people are not allowed. Some nonessential businesses and services, including retailers, will be allowed to reopen after that at 25% capacity. Large retailers will have a 20% capacity limit. Everyone has to wear masks in public. People traveling to the state must self-isolate. Restaurants and dine-in outlets may provide only curbside and delivery service. Offices can reopen at 25% capacity.
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New York
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 1,743 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 340,661)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 113 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 22,013)
> Tests as of May 14: 6,442 per 100,000 — 2nd highest (total: 1,258,907)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/22/2020): 21
> Population: 19,542,209
The stay-at-home order will expire on May 15. Some restrictions remain in place, and social distancing restrictions remain in full force. The Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, and Southern Tier regions will begin to reopen after meeting seven different criteria for reopening. Essential businesses, such as grocery stores, have remained open. Construction, manufacturing, wholesale trade, retail (for curbside pickup only), and agriculture, forestry, and fishing can resume operations. Drive-in movie theaters will be allowed to open as well. Gardeners and landscapers can resume work, too.
North Carolina
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 159 per 100,000 — 15th lowest (total: 16,507)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 6 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 615)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,112 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 219,268)
> Days between first case on 3/3/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 27
> Population: 10,383,620
A modified stay-at-home order is in effect until May 22. A phased reopening of the economy has begun. When outside, people have to wear masks, wash their hands, and stay 6 feet apart. Retail businesses can open at 50% capacity. People can leave their homes to go to any business that is allowed to open. Bars, personal care businesses, gyms, restaurants, and movie theaters remain closed. Working from home is strongly encouraged. Summer day camps can open. Child care facilities will be open to serve families of parents who are working or looking for work. Gatherings of more than 10 people are banned.
North Dakota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 217 per 100,000 — 23rd lowest (total: 1,647)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 5 per 100,000 — 14th lowest (total: 40)
> Tests as of May 14: 6,439 per 100,000 — 3rd highest (total: 48,945)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 760,077
The state never issued a statewide stay-at-home order. The order for all nonessential businesses to be closed ended on April 30. Some businesses, including movie theaters, gyms, salons, tattoo parlors, bars, and restaurants are allowed to open, but safety measures such as daily disinfection and limits on the number of customers remain in place. People entering North Dakota from another state or country who aren’t just passing through have to self-quarantine for 14 days.
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Ohio
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 220 per 100,000 — 25th lowest (total: 25,721)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 13 per 100,000 — 17th highest (total: 1,483)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/9/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 14
> Population: 11,689,442
The stay-at-home order has been extended until May 29, but some businesses have been allowed to reopen after May 1. Health procedures that do not require an overnight stay in the hospital may resume as well as dental and veterinary services. Movie theaters, gyms, and restaurants are allowed to reopen. Beginning on May 4, manufacturing, distribution, and construction businesses have been allowed to resume. Retail stores have been able to reopen after May 12. Face coverings are required.
Oklahoma
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 123 per 100,000 — 9th lowest (total: 4,852)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 7 per 100,000 — 18th lowest (total: 278)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 3,943,079
The state has not issued a statewide stay-at-home order except for older people and those who have certain preexisting conditions. Previously suspended elective surgeries were allowed to resume after April 24. Restrictions on salons, barbers, and pet groomers were also lifted. Restaurant dining, movie theaters, gyms, houses of worship, and sporting venues have been allowed to reopen with certain restrictions since May 1 and must adhere to strict social distancing and sanitation protocols. Phase two will begin on May 15. It will allow nonessential travel to resume. Organized sporting events, funerals, and weddings can start to take place with no more than 10 people.
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Oregon
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 80 per 100,000 — 5th lowest (total: 3,338)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 3 per 100,000 — 6th lowest (total: 134)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,002 per 100,000 — 16th lowest (total: 83,909)
> Days between first case on 2/28/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 24
> Population: 4,190,713
A stay-at-home order is in effect until further notice, but some restrictions will be lifted starting May 15. Gatherings of more than 25 people will still be banned. Restaurants and bars can resume indoor dining, but tables must be placed 6 feet apart, and parties are limited to no more than 10 people. Salons, spas, and gyms will also be allowed to reopen with restrictions. Nonessential social and recreational gatherings will be allowed if people keep a distance of at least 6 feet. People violating the order are subject to penalties. Nonurgent medical procedures were allowed to restart on May 1.
Pennsylvania
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 458 per 100,000 — 12th highest (total: 58,698)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 31 per 100,000 — 8th highest (total: 3,943)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/1/2020): 26
> Population: 12,807,060
The stay-at-home order expires on June 4. Retail shops can start to reopen in some counties. Statewide, gatherings of more than 25 people are prohibited. Trout fishing season is open as long as people follow social distancing guidelines. Golf courses were allowed to open after May 1. Outdoor exercise is allowed as long as people maintain 6-foot distancing. Construction work resumed on May 1. Some outdoor recreational activities were allowed to reopen on May 1. Social distancing and wearing masks are required. Some liquor stores will be allowed to offer curbside delivery.
Rhode Island
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 1,119 per 100,000 — 4th highest (total: 11,835)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 44 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 462)
> Tests as of May 14: 9,261 per 100,000 — the highest (total: 97,922)
> Days between first case on 3/1/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/28/2020): 27
> Population: 1,057,315
The stay-at-home order expired on May 8. Gatherings of more than five people are still banned. All noncritical retail businesses remain closed. Elective medical procedures have resumed. Retail stores are allowed to reopen for in-store pickup. Hair salons and barber shops will also begin opening, but with limited seating after May 15. Most restaurants can start offering outdoor seating next week. Face masks and social distancing requirements remain in place.
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South Carolina
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 158 per 100,000 — 13th lowest (total: 8,030)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 7 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 362)
> Tests as of May 14: 1,886 per 100,000 — 12th lowest (total: 95,866)
> Days between first case on 3/6/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/6/2020): 31
> Population: 5,084,127
The stay-at-home expired on May 4. Orders for out-of-state visitors to quarantine have also expired. Public beaches, piers, and docks can remain open, though many have remained closed. Nonessential businesses such as flea markets, department stores, and boutiques may reopen. Retail stores are under instructions to operate at 20% capacity. Restaurants can open for outdoor dining. Residents are encouraged to work from home but are no longer required by law.
South Dakota
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 423 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 3,732)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 4 per 100,000 — 12th lowest (total: 39)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,929 per 100,000 — 18th highest (total: 25,844)
> Days between first case on 3/10/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 882,235
The state never issued a statewide stay-at-home order, but did institute some restrictions on gathering and businesses. When outside, people must be at least 6 feet apart. Businesses will be allowed to reopen if the surrounding area has reported a downward trend in cases for two weeks. The governor signed a “Back to Normal” plan on April 28. Businesses can reopen as long as they follow social distancing norms, proper sanitation, and good hygiene. Fewer people are now working from home as workers began to go back into the office. Schools continue to teach by remote learning.
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Tennessee
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 242 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 16,370)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 4 per 100,000 — 10th lowest (total: 273)
> Tests as of May 14: 4,327 per 100,000 — 9th highest (total: 292,917)
> Days between first case on 3/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/31/2020): 26
> Population: 6,770,010
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. A safer-at-home order is now in effect until May 29. Many businesses were allowed to open in the meanwhile. Restaurants have been allowed to offer in-person, but limited, capacity dining. Other close contact businesses such as barbershops, salons, and massage and tattoo parlors remain closed. State parks reopened April 24. The most populated areas of the state will decide when to reopen on their own.
Texas
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 148 per 100,000 — 11th lowest (total: 42,403)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 4 per 100,000 — 11th lowest (total: 1,158)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,047 per 100,000 — 17th lowest (total: 587,431)
> Days between first case on 2/12/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (4/2/2020): 50
> Population: 28,701,845
The stay-at-home order expired on April 30. State parks started reopening on April 20, and some stores started offering retail-to-go on April 24. Face coverings are still required. Restaurants, retailers, movie theaters, malls, and other businesses have been allowed to reopen at 25% capacity. In rural counties with five or fewer confirmed cases, retailers can serve up to 50% of their regular capacity. Bars that don’t serve food remain closed. Barbershops, hair salons, and tanning salons were allowed to resume operations starting on May 8. Gyms can reopen starting May 18 with 25% occupancy.
Utah
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 209 per 100,000 — 21st lowest (total: 6,620)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 2 per 100,000 — 5th lowest (total: 75)
> Tests as of May 14: 4,960 per 100,000 — 7th highest (total: 156,786)
> Days between first case on 2/25/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 3,161,105
The state never issued a statewide stay-at-home order. A stay safe, stay home directive expired on May 1. In-restaurant dining, gyms, and salons can now open. Gatherings of up to 20 people are allowed. Statewide restrictions on elective surgeries and procedures were lifted as of April 21. Malls and national parks can reopen under tight restrictions. Hours may vary and will be limited.
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Vermont
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 149 per 100,000 — 12th lowest (total: 932)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 8 per 100,000 — 24th lowest (total: 53)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,593 per 100,000 — 14th highest (total: 22,505)
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 17
> Population: 626,299
A stay home, stay safe order is in effect until at least May 15, and the governor is expected to extend it. Residents can only leave their homes for essential reasons such as personal safety, groceries or medicine, curbside pickup of goods, and a few other reasons. Everyone has to work remotely when possible. Some low-contact businesses were allowed to open after April 20 with a two-person staff. Graduation parties might be allowed and be larger than 10 guests by the time graduation rolls around in June. As of May 11, construction has been fully allowed as long as safety measures — wearing masks and practicing good hygiene — are followed.
Virginia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 311 per 100,000 — 19th highest (total: 26,469)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 11 per 100,000 — 22nd highest (total: 927)
> Tests as of May 14: 1,943 per 100,000 — 14th lowest (total: 165,486)
> Days between first case on 3/7/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/30/2020): 23
> Population: 8,517,685
A stay-at-home order is in effect until June 10. It’s unlawful to gather in groups of 10 or more people. Those violating social distancing rules can be charged with a misdemeanor, which carries the possibility of jail time up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. Elective medical procedures are now allowed. Dentist offices are open to nonemergency appointments. Beaches and parks are open for the purpose of socially-distant exercise. After May 15, retailers or personal care businesses may reopen at 50% capacity as long as they adhere to CDC guidelines. Restaurants can then open for outdoor dining and outdoor fitness classes will be allowed to resume, but gatherings of more than 10 people are still banned.
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Washington
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 232 per 100,000 — 24th highest (total: 17,512)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 13 per 100,000 — 16th highest (total: 975)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,465 per 100,000 — 15th highest (total: 261,080)
> Days between first case on 1/21/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/23/2020): 62
> Population: 7,535,591
A stay-at-home, stay healthy order is in effect until May 31. The order is expected to be completely lifted by July 12. People can still go on bike rides, garden, and walk their dogs as long as they follow social distancing rules. Sports courts and playgrounds are closed. After May 15, more retail businesses will be allowed to do curbside pickup. Vehicle sales, car washes, landscaping, house cleaning, and drive-in church services may be allowed after May 15 if they follow social distancing protocols.
West Virginia
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 78 per 100,000 — 4th lowest (total: 1,404)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 3 per 100,000 — 8th lowest (total: 59)
> Tests as of May 14: 3,716 per 100,000 — 13th highest (total: 67,110)
> Days between first case on 3/17/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/24/2020): 7
> Population: 1,805,832
The stay-at-home order expired on May 3. A safer-at-home order is now in effect. Residents are encouraged to stay inside but are not required. Restaurants may open for outdoor dining. Personal service businesses can also open but with appointments and customers waiting outside. Elective medical procedures resumed April 28. Church and funeral services can resume.
Wisconsin
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 188 per 100,000 — 19th lowest (total: 10,902)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 7 per 100,000 — 20th lowest (total: 421)
> Tests as of May 14: N/A
> Days between first case on 2/5/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date (3/25/2020): 49
> Population: 5,813,568
A stay-at-home order was supposed to be in effect until May 26, but the state’s Supreme Court struck it down. All restrictions are now lifted. Some districts have imposed their own stay-at-home orders, so not all businesses statewide are open.
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Wyoming
> Confirmed COVID-19 cases as of May 14: 91 per 100,000 — 6th lowest (total: 523)
> COVID-19 related deaths as of May 14: 1 per 100,000 — 2nd lowest (total: 07)
> Tests as of May 14: 2,640 per 100,000 — 23rd highest (total: 15,252)
> Days between first case on 3/11/2020 and statewide stay-at-home effective date: No order issued as of May 14
> Population: 577,737
The state never issued a statewide stay-at-home order. Anyone returning to Wyoming from any other state or country must self-quarantine for 14 days. Gyms, barber shops, hair salons and other personal care services, and elective surgeries have resumed on May 1 with limits on the number of customers in the facility. Gatherings of more than 10 people will be allowed after May 15. Restaurants can start offering indoor and outdoor dining after that as well. Movie theaters and performance venues will be allowed to reopen with no more than 25 people.
Methodology
To determine every state’s rules on social distancing and restrictions on movement, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed each state’s governor executive orders since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in the United States at the end of January.
Data on COVID-19 confirmed cases and related deaths comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as from state and local health departments. The number of COVID-19 tests every state has conducted as of May 14 also came from state and local health departments.
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