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For the Love of Tennessee, Travel Safe

Tennessee’s given us a lot to love. We look forward to welcoming you with our famous, warm hospitality. There are currently no travel restrictions in Tennessee; however, we encourage everyone to follow health and safety practices. Some areas of the state have implemented additional safety precautions. For regional guidance, visit the local tourism offices listed at the bottom of this page.

Guidance for residents and visitors is available at the CDC Guidance for Travelers .

Additional COVID-19 Information

Find important travel updates, including attraction and restaurant reopenings, from Tennessee cities and counties below.

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• Travel Restrictions During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources

To stem the spread of the coronavirus, certain states enacted restrictions on interstate and sometimes international travel. These often took the form of a quarantine for 10 or 14 days, which could be either mandatory or advised. A traveler often could avoid or lessen a quarantine requirement by getting tested for COVID-19 shortly before their trip or after their arrival. During the spring and summer of 2021, most travel restrictions were lifted or largely lifted, but a few restrictions and some advisories remain near the end of 2021.

Specific federal rules apply to international travel. US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and people immigrating to the US must provide a negative result from a COVID-19 viral test taken no more than one day before traveling by air into the US, or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 within the last 90 days. (Children under two are exempt.) Other travelers must provide proof of vaccination in addition to the negative test result, unless they are under 18 or fall within certain other exceptions.

The list below focuses on restrictions at the state level. Some county and city governments have adopted their own restrictions, which are generally not covered here. You may want to check the website of your local governing authority to find out about the most recent travel rules that may affect you.

Connecticut

District of Columbia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

New Hampshire

North Carolina

North Dakota

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

West Virginia

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021.

• Staying Safe, Alabama Travel

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although unvaccinated travelers should get tested when arriving in Alaska, and vaccinated travelers may choose to get tested. People with a current positive test cannot travel to Alaska until they are released from isolation by a medical provider or public health agency. Critical infrastructure workers should follow the work plan filed by their employer with the state.

• COVID-19 Traveler Information, State of Alaska
• Arizona Travel Advisories & Tips
• COVID-19 Guidance for Travelers, Arkansas Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a reminder to follow CDC travel guidelines. These include getting tested 3-5 days after entering the state and delaying travel until fully vaccinated. (Unvaccinated people who choose to travel are advised to get tested before and afterward.)

• Travel, California Department of Public Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, but non-essential travel is not recommended for people who have not been fully vaccinated. People who have been fully vaccinated do not need to get tested before or after domestic travel and do not need to self-quarantine. International travelers should get tested 3-5 days after their trip. People who are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19, or traveling with higher-risk people, should consider limiting their travel. People should not travel if they are sick or have recently tested positive for COVID-19, if they are with someone who is sick, or if they have been around someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

• Travel, Colorado COVID-19 Updates

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although people entering Connecticut should follow travel-related guidance from the CDC and the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

• Connecticut Travel Advisory

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a general advisory to stay home if you are sick.

• Travel Advisory, Visit Delaware

Fully vaccinated travelers (or travelers who tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days) may enter the District of Columbia from domestic locations without a quarantine unless they have COVID-19 symptoms. International travelers must provide a negative test before boarding a flight to the US and get tested 3-5 days after travel. Unvaccinated travelers must get a COVID-19 test 1-3 days before visiting the District. A traveler who tests positive in the District must complete their isolation before traveling home, and susceptible close contacts must complete a 10-day quarantine. Essential travelers who are unvaccinated must take a COVID-19 test if they have more than one week of notice and must limit their activities in the District. Unvaccinated travelers coming from Maryland or Virginia, or staying in the District for less than 24 hours, are exempt from testing requirements.

• Travel Status Update, Washington, DC

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although there is a general warning not to travel if you are sick or with someone who is sick, or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

• Florida COVID-19 Response: Travelers, Florida Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a general warning not to travel if you are sick and a recommendation to practice precautions during travel. The Georgia Department of Public Health provides a set of issues to consider and precautions to take when traveling during the pandemic. People should reconsider international travel, following a US State Department recommendation.

• COVID-19: Travel, Georgia Department of Public Health

Domestic travelers entering Hawaii must use the Safe Travels Hawaii program, which involves creating a digital account, providing details about the trip, and completing a health form. Travelers must undergo a 10-day quarantine unless they upload a vaccination document or a negative result from an NAAT test taken by a Trusted Travel Partner within 72 hours before departing for Hawaii. International travelers entering Hawaii (who are two or older) must show a negative COVID-19 viral test result taken no more than one day before travel, or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the last 90 days, before boarding the flight.

• Alerts: COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus), Hawaii Tourism Authority

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than an advisory to follow CDC guidelines and any applicable ordinances and resolutions.

• COVID-19 Travel Information, Idaho Department of Commerce - Tourism Development

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021. The Illinois Department of Public Health has adopted CDC recommendations and guidance.

• COVID-19 Travel Guidance, Illinois Department of Public Health
• Indiana Coronavirus Updates

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a recommendation to follow CDC and Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines.

• COVID-19 Traveler Information, Travel Iowa

A home quarantine is mandated for anyone who has attended a mass gathering involving 500 or more people where they did not socially distance and wear a mask. A quarantine mandate also applies to people who have traveled to certain countries or islands between dates identified in a Kansas Department of Health and Environment policy (linked below), and to people who have traveled on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15, 2020. The length of the quarantine can be 7, 10, or 14 days after last exposure, depending on whether the traveler has been tested and the preference of the local health officer. People who have been fully vaccinated or have had COVID-19 within the last six months are exempt from quarantine requirements.

• Travel-Related Quarantine Guidelines: COVID-19, Kansas Department of Health and Environment

Non-essential travel is discouraged for people who are not fully vaccinated. International travelers (who are two or older) must show proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test performed within one day of their departure. They should get tested 3-5 days after arrival. Unvaccinated international travelers should quarantine for seven days after their arrival. People who are fully vaccinated may travel without testing or quarantine requirements.

• Kentucky Travel Advisory

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a recommendation to follow the latest guidance from the CDC and the Louisiana Department of Health.

• COVID-19 Travel Safety Information, Louisiana Travel

No statewide restrictions on domestic travel as of December 21, 2021. International travelers should follow applicable CDC guidelines. Fully vaccinated international travelers do not need to quarantine unless they have symptoms, but testing is recommended 3-5 days after arrival. Unvaccinated international travelers must quarantine for seven days after their arrival and get a COVID-19 molecular or antigen test 3-5 days after their arrival. Even if they test negative, they should complete the quarantine. If they do not get tested, they should quarantine for 10 days. They should avoid being around people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 for 14 days after their arrival. Any international travelers should isolate if they test positive.

• COVID-19: Travel, Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021. The Maryland Department of Health echoes CDC warnings against travel on cruise ships for everyone and against non-essential air travel for people at increased risk for serious illness.

• Resources for Travelers, Maryland Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021. Travelers seeking recommendations can consult CDC guidance.

• Massachusetts COVID-19 Travel Information

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a warning not to travel if you are sick, were exposed to COVID-19, or tested positive for COVID-19. People are advised to delay travel until they are fully vaccinated.

• Travel Safety During COVID-19, Michigan Department of Health & Human Services
• Travel, Minnesota COVID-19 Response
• COVID-19 Travel Alert, Visit Mississippi

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a general recommendation to check CDC resources and local public health agency orders.

• Travel Updates & Resources on COVID-19, Visit Missouri

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a recommendation to review any local public health guidelines and stay home if you are sick.

• Travel Alerts, Montana COVID-19 Update

No statewide restrictions on domestic travel as of December 21, 2021. International travelers must get tested within 3 days before returning to the US via airline, or provide documentation of recovery from COVID-19. International travelers are also urged to get tested 3-5 days after returning to the US and quarantine for 7 days after travel, or quarantine for 10 days if they do not get tested.

• COVID-19 Traveler Recommendations, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

People should not travel if they have been presumptively diagnosed with COVID-19, are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, have tested positive and have not yet recovered, or have been potentially exposed to someone who is positive.

• Travel Guidelines, Nevada Health Response

No statewide restrictions on domestic travel as of December 21, 2021, other than a general recommendation to follow CDC travel guidance. People entering New Hampshire following international travel (except essential travel to or from Canada) or travel on a cruise ship should self-quarantine for 10 days after the last date of international or cruise ship travel. The quarantine may be shortened to 7 days if a traveler is asymptomatic and receives a negative result from a COVID-19 molecular test taken on day 6 or 7 of quarantine. Fully vaccinated people and people within 90 days of a prior testing-diagnosed COVID-19 infection are exempt from quarantine after international travel or travel on a cruise ship. However, people not subject to quarantine requirements still should monitor for symptoms and practice social distancing and other public health precautions.

• Out-of-State Visitors, New Hampshire Safer at Home

No statewide travel advisory in effect as of December 21, 2021, but travelers should follow CDC recommendations and federal requirements for international travel.

• Travel FAQs, New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub
• New Mexico Travel Advisory

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a reminder to follow CDC travel requirements.

• New York COVID-19 Travel Advisory

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021. Travelers are urged to follow CDC guidance and US State Department recommendations.

• North Carolina COVID-19 Travel Resources

Unvaccinated people entering North Dakota are advised to get a viral COVID-19 test 3-5 days after travel and quarantine for 7 days after travel, even if they test negative. They should quarantine for 10 days after travel if they do not get tested. Travelers who test positive or have symptoms of COVID-19 should self-isolate and follow North Dakota Department of Health recommendations. Unvaccinated travelers should avoid being around people who are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 for 14 days, even if they get tested. People should not travel if they are sick or have been around someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days. Fully vaccinated individuals should follow CDC guidance.

• Traveling Into North Dakota, North Dakota Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although Ohio residents are encouraged to carefully review CDC guidance when considering travel.

• COVID-19 Travel Advisory, Ohio Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although people are advised to delay travel until they are fully vaccinated. Travelers should follow CDC recommendations.

• COVID-19 Travel Information, Oklahoma State Department of Health
• Travel Alerts, Travel Oregon

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although travelers should take appropriate public health measures.

• COVID-19 Information for Travelers, Pennsylvania Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, regardless of whether travelers are vaccinated. However, the Rhode Island Department of Health recommends following CDC quarantine and testing guidance. International travelers must follow CDC rules.

• COVID-19 Travel Information for Residents and Visitors, Rhode Island Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a recommendation to follow CDC guidelines. Travelers should consider getting tested and avoid being around people at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

• Travelers (COVID-19), South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although there may be checkpoints on highways or tribal lands.

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information, Travel South Dakota

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, although everyone is encouraged to follow health and safety practices.

• Travel Safely Amid COVID-19, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than a general recommendation to follow CDC advice and the travel advisories, notices, and recommendations issued by the US State Department.

• Information for Travelers, Texas Department of State Health Services

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than recommendations to follow CDC guidance and consider purchasing travel insurance.

• Utah COVID-19 Travel Guidance

No statewide restrictions on domestic travel as of December 21, 2021. The Vermont Department of Health notes that the CDC recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated. People should consider getting tested and taking other precautions if they travel to a location with a high COVID-19 rate. International travelers should check US State Department travel advisories and follow CDC guidance.

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): Traveling to Vermont, Vermont Department of Health

The Virginia Department of Health recommends that people delay travel until they are fully vaccinated, especially if they are at higher risk of serious COVID-19 or visiting someone at higher risk of serious COVID-19. Unvaccinated travelers should quarantine after domestic or international travel. People who have recovered from COVID-19 in the last three months do not need to get tested or quarantine unless they have symptoms.

Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to quarantine, and fully vaccinated domestic travelers do not need to get tested either. Fully vaccinated international travelers should get tested 3-5 days after travel. Unvaccinated travelers should get tested 1-3 days before travel and should not travel if they are sick, if they test positive, if they are waiting for their test result, or if they have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days. Unvaccinated travelers should get tested 3-5 days after travel and quarantine for 7 days, even if they test negative. They should quarantine for 10 days if they do not get tested. Also, they should monitor for symptoms and avoid being around people at increased risk of serious illness from COVID-19 for 14 days.

• Travelers - Coronavirus, Virginia Department of Health

No statewide travel restrictions as of December 21, 2021, other than an advisory to comply with CDC travel requirements and recommendations.

• Travelers & Commuters, Washington State Coronavirus Response
• Travel Responsibly, West Virginia Tourism Office

Wisconsin residents are advised to postpone all travel until they are fully vaccinated. People should not travel if they are sick or with someone who is sick, or if they have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days or think that they may have been exposed. Unvaccinated people should avoid travel between multiple private homes within Wisconsin and should avoid going out into the community as much as possible if they travel to an area with few doctors or hospitals.

• COVID-19: Travel, Wisconsin Department of Health Services

No statewide travel restrictions for US travelers as of December 21, 2021, although both vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers should follow CDC recommendations.

• COVID-19 Orders and Guidance, Wyoming Department of Health

Last reviewed December 2022

COVID-19 Legal Center Contents   

• COVID-19 Legal Center
• What Employees During COVID-19 Should Know About the Law
• What Employers During COVID-19 Should Know About the Law
• Eviction Bans and Mortgage Relief Legally Available During COVID-19
• Business Assistance Legally Available During the Coronavirus Pandemic
• Tax Law Issues Related to COVID-19
• Impact of COVID-19 on Immigration Law
• Debts and Bankruptcy Legal Issues During the COVID-19 Outbreak
• Impact of COVID-19 on Legal Proceedings in Criminal Cases
• Divorce, Family Law, and Coronavirus
• Impact of COVID-19 on Personal Injury Lawsuits
• Microschools and Pod Learning During COVID-19 & Legal Considerations
• Funeral Cost Assistance Legally Available During COVID-19
• Coronavirus Legal FAQ
• Coronavirus and Unemployment Benefits: 50-State Legal Resources
• Eviction, Mortgage, & Foreclosure Relief During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources
• COVID-19 Restrictions: 50-State Legal Resources
• COVID-19 & Taxes: 50-State Legal Resources
• Elections During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources
• Bar Exam Modifications During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources
• Court Operations During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources
• Mask Mandates During COVID-19: 50-State Legal Resources
• Find a Gov & Administrative Law Lawyer
• Browse Q&A Questions & Answers Related to COVID-19

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A Guide to All 50 States' COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

What to know about each state's quarantine or travel rules.

The coronavirus pandemic continues to have a major impact not only traveling abroad , but on domestic travel as well and many states have taken precautions to prevent its spread within local communities.

But while all international travelers returning to the U.S. must get tested before boarding a flight, domestic restrictions are still done on a state-by-state basis.

Below is a state-by-state breakdown of what travelers need to know about quarantine rules and travel restrictions if they're planning a trip. For the number of coronavirus cases in each state and local protocols, please see their official state or health department websites listed for the most updated information.

Alabama Department of Public Health

Alabama currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Alaska Department of Health and Social Services

Alaska no longer requires visitors from out-of-state to arrive with a negative COVID-19 test. However, the state's Gov. Mike Dunleavy said travelers can still choose to get tested upon arrival at the airport for a cost.

Arizona Department of Health Services

Arizona currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

State of Arkansas COVID-19 website

Arkansas currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

California's COVID-19 website

California urges visitors as well as returning residents entering the state to self-quarantine for 10 days. Those who travel for essential reasons are exempt.

In January, the state lifted a regional stay-at-home order .

Notable closures: Disneyland Resort in California remains closed even as the theme park has reopened shopping and dining in its Downtown Disney District. In addition, Lake Tahoe had closed to tourists for the holiday season.

Official State of Colorado COVID-19 Info

Colorado currently has no statewide travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining. However, Pitkin County — home to Aspen — requires visitors to complete an online travel affidavit , test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of arriving, and be symptom-free for 10 days before traveling.

Please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants throughout the state are handling the pandemic.

Connecticut

Connecticut COVID-19 Response

Travelers heading to Connecticut must either self-quarantine for 10 days upon arrival or arrive with a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test within 72 hours and complete a travel health form . Travelers who have tested positive within 90 days and recovered are exempt, but vaccinated travelers are not.

Failure to comply may result in a $500 fine for each violation.

Travelers from New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island are exempt from the order. Connecticut residents who travel to a neighboring affected state for less than 24 hours are also exempt.

Delaware Division of Public Health, Coronavirus Response

Delaware currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

District of Columbia

Washington D.C. COVID-19 website

Washington D.C. requires anyone coming from a high-risk state (found in the link above) — which currently includes the majority of the country — to get tested within 72 hours of traveling, and not travel if they test positive for the virus. Visitors who stay in D.C. for more than three days will have to get re-tested within three to five days of arrival.

Travel to and from several states is exempt from the order, including neighboring Maryland and Virginia.

Florida COVID-19 Response

Florida currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic. Disney World and Universal are open with new health and safety protocols in place.

Georgia Department of Economic Development

Georgia currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Hawai'i State Department of Health

Hawaii allows visitors to skip the state's mandatory quarantine if they arrive with proof of a negative COVID-19 test from a certified laboratory taken within 72 hours. The islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Hawaii participate in this pre-testing program .

Several airlines, including United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines , and American Airlines have introduced pre-flight testing programs for passengers heading to the Aloha state.

The island of Kauai has opted for stricter protocols , requiring visitors to test negative with a pre-travel test within 72 hours of traveling to the island, stay at an approved "resort bubble" property, and test negative for a second time more than 72 hours after arriving.

A second, free COVID-19 test may be required upon arrival at the airport in the county of Hawaii.

Those who arrive without a negative test and violate the state's 10-day mandatory self-quarantine may face fines of up to $5,000 and one year in prison.

Idaho COVID-19 website

Idaho currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Illinois Department of Public Health

Illinois does not have statewide travel restrictions in place, but does recommend people "avoid travel to areas of higher risk." Chicago, however, has implemented a color-coded advisory system , requiring either quarantine or testing protocols be followed depending on where travelers are coming from.

Chicago has grouped states into yellow and orange categories , requiring different protocols for each. Those coming from an "orange" state, which encompasses most of the country, must obtain a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival or quarantine for 10 days. Those coming from a "yellow" state are asked to avoid non-essential travel, but are not required to quarantine or get tested.

Indiana COVID-19 website

Indiana currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Iowa COVID-19 website

Iowa currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

Kansas requires travelers who have been on a cruise ship or attended an out-of-state mass gathering of 500 people or more where guests do not social distance and wear masks to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.

Kentucky COVID-19 website

The Kentucky Department for Public Health discourages all out-of-state travel. Anyone traveling for leisure purposes from another state is encouraged to self-quarantine for 14-days upon entering Kentucky.

Louisiana Department of Health

Louisiana currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

State of Maine COVID-19 Response

Maine requires travelers to either arrive with a negative COVID-19 molecular or antigen test taken within 72 hours before arrival or quarantine for 10 days. Visitors from New Hampshire or Vermont are exempt from the order.

Those who stay at a hotel will be asked to sign a Certificate of Compliance.

Maryland Department of Health

Maryland requires visitors to either get a COVID-19 test 72 hours before traveling to the state or upon arrival. Conversely, visitors can self-quarantine for 10 days. Maryland residents traveling to Washington D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or West Virginia are exempt.

Maryland "strongly" encourages travelers to then get a second test within 72 hours of arrival.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts COVID-19 website

Massachusetts requires travelers over 18 years old as well as unaccompanied minors to complete a travel form and either arrive with a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours or quarantine for 10 days. Additionally, travelers can get tested upon arrival, but have to quarantine until the negative results are available.

Visitors from Hawaii, North Dakota, and Puerto Rico — considered lower-risk areas with less than 10 average daily cases per 100,000 people and a positive test rate below 5% — are exempt from the order.

Those who do not comply with Massachusetts' order are subject to a $500fine per day.

Michigan COVID-19 website

Michigan currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Minnesota COVID-19 Response

Minnesota requires anyone visiting from out of state or returning to the state quarantine for 14 days upon arriving in Minnesota, and out-of-state travel is "highly discouraged."

Mississippi

Mississippi State Department of Health

Mississippi currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Missouri currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services

Montana currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Nebraska currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

State COVID-19 website : Nevada Health Response

Nevada currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire COVID-19 website

Travelers heading to New Hampshire from non-New England states must self-quarantine for 10 days. Asymptomatic individuals with a negative PCR test on or after day 7 of quarantining can shorten or end their quarantine.

Those coming from Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island are exempt. Fully vaccinated travelers as well as those who contracted COVID-19 in the past 90 days and recovered are also exempt.

New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub

New Jersey requires anyone entering the state to following CDC guidelines, either quarantining for 10 days; or getting tested one to three days before the trip, again three to five days after the trip, and quarantining for seven days. Visitors are also asked to fill out a voluntary online survey .

Visitors from New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Delaware are exempt.

New Mexico Department of Health

Travelers who come to New Mexico from high-risk states (defined as having a 5% positivity rate or higher on a 7-day rolling average or a positive test rate of more than 80 per 1 million residents) are "strongly advised" to self quarantine for at least 14 days. Those coming from low-risk states — which currently includes Hawaii — are exempt.

The state also recommends people get tested after arriving in the state.

New York Forward

Domestic travelers heading to New York will no longer need to quarantine starting April 1, although a voluntary quarantine period is recommended.

Additionally, travelers who have been fully vaccinated within 90 days of heading to New York will not need to quarantine or undergo a COVID-19 test or a quarantine period.

New Yorkers who leave the state for less than 24 hours will be required to fill out a traveler information form when they return and get tested four days after coming back, but will not be subject to quarantine or have to complete any pre-departure testing.

Travelers who leave the airport without completing the state's Traveler Health Form are subject to a $10,000 fine.

Visitors from New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania are exempt from the new order.

Notable closures : Broadway has gone dark through at least June 2021, and the city's Metropolitan Operawon't reopen until at least September 2021. The New York Philharmonic has also canceled its shows until June 2021, the first time in 178 years the renowned orchestra will miss a season.

North Carolina

North Carolina COVID-19 Information Hub

North Carolina currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

North Dakota

North Dakota Department of Health

North Dakota currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Ohio Department of Health

Ohio asks travelers coming from states with a positive test rate of 15% or higher to voluntarily self-quarantine for 14 days.

Oklahoma State Department of Health

Oklahoma currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Oregon Health Authority

Oregon asks people entering the state from other states or countries to self-quarantine for 14 days . Oregon has also categorized counties in the state under different risk levels — Extreme, High, Moderate, and Lower Risk — based on cases per 100,000 residents, and implemented closures for each.

Pennsylvania

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania requires visitors or returning residents to arrive with a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of traveling or quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. Anyone who does not comply with the order could face a fine between $25 and $300.

Rhode Island

State of Rhode Island Department of Health

Travelers heading to Rhode Island from a state with a positive rate higher than 5% can either arrive with a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours or quarantine for 10 days. International travelers, however, are not eligible for the testing option.

Rhode Island requires travelers to complete a certificate of compliance upon arrival, which they may have to give to their hotel when they check in.

South Carolina

South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control

South Carolina currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

South Dakota

COVID-19 in South Dakota

South Dakota currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, but some tribal lands have put restrictions in place on traveling through their land. Please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

TN Department of Health

Tennessee currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Texas Department of State Health Services

Texas currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Utah COVID-19 website

Utah currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Vermont Department of Health

Vermont requires most visitors to the state to quarantine upon arrival , allowing them to test out of that quarantine with a PCR test on or after day 7. Visitors who are traveling to Vermont in a personal vehicle also have the option of quarantining at home (as well as using the test-out option after a week).

Vermont residents leaving the state for essential reasons like work or health care do not need to quarantine.

Vaccinated visitors who received their final shot at least 14 days before coming to the state are exempt from quarantine.

Virginia Department of Health

Virginia currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, but recommends people who do follow the CDC's guidelines and get tested one to three days before travel, and three to five days after travel, and "consider reducing non-essential activities for a full 7 days after travel if you get tested after travel or a full 10 days if you don't get tested after travel."

Please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Washington State Department of Health

Washington requires visitors and returning residents to self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival. Those who travel for essential reasons are exempt.

West Virginia

West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources

West Virginia currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services

Wisconsin currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, but the state does not recommend Wisconsinites travel between multiple private homes within the state and several counties have issued travel advisories for seasonal and second homeowners. Please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Wyoming Department of Health

Wyoming currently has no travel restrictions when it comes to crossing state lines or quarantining, please see the link above for information on how local businesses and restaurants are handling the pandemic.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram.

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Tennessee: State-by-State COVID-19 Guidance

Please note :  A s of April 15, 2021 we are no longer doing regularly scheduled updates to this page.

April 1, 2021:

The Metro Public Health Department announced on March 31, 2021 that anyone over the age of 16 is now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Those eligible can schedule an appointment online or call the TDH vaccine support line at 866-442-5301. Transportation resources are available when appointments are booked online or via phone.

March 29, 2021:

Public Pharmacy is opening appointments at 23 Tennessee locations for COVID-19 vaccinations. Starting March 30 at 7:00 a.m., eligible individuals can use the company’s online system to schedule their COVID-19 vaccination appointment. Vaccinations are provided for any individual who meets state and federal requirements at the time of the appointment. Currently, eligibility varies by county. To determine eligibility, visit the department of health’s vaccine eligibility page . Vaccinations are provided by appointment only, while supplies last, through the online system at publix.com/covidvaccine .

March 25, 2021:

(Nashville): Health officials announced Nashville will move to the next phase of reopening on April 26, 2021 at 12:01 am. Some notable changes include:

• Indoor gathering limits will increases to 10 people without Health Department approval required.
• Restaurant and bar hours will be extended to 2:00 a.m. and capacity will be raised to 175 people per floor (with social distancing).
• Indoor dining party size will increase to 10 people, and outdoor dining party size will increase to 25.
• Large, low-risk indoor conventions can have up to 2,000 people with Health Department approval.
• Outdoor stadium capacity will be 33%.
• Weddings, receptions, and parties can increase to about 175, pending Health Department approval.
• Events and “transportainment” can go until 2:00 a.m., consistent with restaurant and bar hours, and host groups of up to 25.
• Salons and personal contact businesses can operate at full capacity with masks required.
• Pool capacity will increase to 75%, and saunas can open.
• Groups of up to 10 people will be allowed Museums and attractions.
• Gyms can operate at 75% capacity.
• Attendance at sports leagues and scholastic events will be 6 people per-participant and 33% of seating capacity with social distancing.

March 22, 2021:

(Nashville): Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced all Tennessee adults will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations no later than April 5, 2021. Tennesseans aged 55 and older and those in Phase 2 of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan are eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations effective March 18, 2021. Eligibility for those in Phase 3 of the Plan will run concurrently with age-based eligibility. Phase 3 includes:

• Residents and staff members of congregate living facilities (including college dormitories, group homes and shelters, and those in the correction system); and
• Grocery store workers who were not eligible for vaccination based on previous age- or risk-based categories.

March 18, 2021:

(Montgomery County): Beginning Friday, March 19, 2021, individuals in risk-based Phases 2a and 2b, along with those 55 and older, can begin registering for a COVID-19 vaccine in Montgomery County. Phase 2a includes residents employed in the following industries: social services, commercial agriculture, commercial food production, corrections staff not included in 1a1, and those in public transit. Phase 2b includes those in transportation, public infrastructure, telecommunications, and utilities or energy industries.

To register for a vaccination appointment online through the county health department, visit https://covid19.tn.gov/covid-19-vaccines/vaccine-phases/ .

March 11, 2021:

Tennessee entered phase 1c of distribution, the largest of the state’s vaccine phases, on March 8, 2021. Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey said Tuesday in a news conference that upwards of 1.5 million Tennesseans became eligible in phase 1c. Piercey also announced additions to phase 1c, including:

• Permanent household members who are 16 or older living with pregnant women;
• People 16 or older with diagnosed diabetes;
• People 16 or older with Down Syndrome; and
• People 16 or older with progressive neuromuscular diseases like ALS, multiple sclerosis, or muscular dystrophy.

Find a vaccine provider by visiting vaccinefinder.org , or visit COVID19.tn.org to book through your county health department.

March 2, 2021:

Tennessee is now vaccinating residents in Phase 1a1, 1a2, and 1b and those age 65 and older. Tennesseans can visit Vaccinate.tn.gov to book an appointment when eligible. As of March 2, 2021, more than 200,000 appointments are available in the system for COVID-19 vaccinations across the state.

Tennessee will open COVID-19 vaccination eligibility to Tennesseans in Phase 1c populations on March 8. Phase 1c of Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan includes people with high-risk health conditions (including pregnancy) and parents and caregivers of children with high-risk health conditions. Tennesseans may find vaccination providers in their area by visiting VaccineFinder.org .

February 24, 2021:

Kroger Health announced February 24, 2021 that it has received a limited supply of the COVID-19 vaccine and will begin administering the vaccine in its 115 pharmacies across Tennessee. Appointments can be made by visiting Kroger.com/covidvaccine or by calling 866-211-5320.

February 16, 2021:

Starting February 22, 2021, people who are over 65 and teachers of all ages will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Other developments in Tennessee’s vaccination plan include:

• Sign language interpreters who work in healthcare have been moved to phase 1a2;
• Air traffic control and air cargo workers have been moved up to phase 1b;
• Pregnant women have been moved up to phase 1c; and
• overnight camp staff have been moved up to phase 3.

The State has provided county-by-county information regarding the vaccine and how to make an appointment.

February 10, 2021:

Tennessee is currently receiving around 100,000 vaccine doses a week. The health commissioner estimates the state will move to phase 1B, in which K-12 teachers and childcare workers are vaccinated, the week of February 22, 2021.

(Nashville): Nashville city and school leaders announced February 8, 2021 that hospitals will begin to vaccinate teachers and childcare workers in the coming days as the district returns to classrooms. The process of vaccinating teachers is expected to last 3-4 weeks and will be led by Vanderbilt University Medical Center and TriStar Health.

February 9, 2021:

(Nashville): Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in Tennessee are now offering COVID-19 vaccines to eligible Tennesseans. To check availability and schedule an appointment, visit the Walmart or Sam’s Club websites. Before scheduling an appointment, make sure to verify your eligibility through the Tennessee Department of Health’s website. Click here for a list of available locations.

February 4, 2021:

(Shelby County): As of February 4, 2021, COVID-19 vaccines are now available to those age 70 and up in Shelby County. Vaccinations continue for people in the 1a1 and 1a2 groups as well. First dose vaccination appointments are now available at the SWTCC Campus (located at 1234 Finley Road in Whitehaven, 2355 Appling City Cove) and Cherokee Health Systems sites in Frayser and Parkway village.

February 2, 2021:

Starting the week of February 1, 2021, Tennessee will see a weekly allocation of 93,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses, which is a 15 percent increase in the state’s previous weekly supply. Individuals 65 and older who are positive for COVID-19 and have certain chronic medical conditions may be eligible to receive monoclonal antibody treatment for their symptoms.

February 1, 2021:

On February 2, 2021, Tennessee will begin administering COVID-19 vaccinations to Tennesseans aged 70 and older based on increased allocations of COVID-19 vaccines to the state. Tennesseans aged 70 and up may begin registering for COVID-19 vaccinations through county health departments on February 2, 2021. Find information on phases eligible for vaccination in your county and, when eligible, register for vaccination through your county health department here .

January 28, 2021:

On January 28, 2021, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 75 , which shortened the term and effective date of Executive Order 74 , which implemented restrictions around who could participate in or attend school sporting events, from February 27, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time to January 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time. Governor Lee based his decision on data that shows that Tennessee has seen around a 60% decrease in cases and nearly a 40% decrease in hospitalizations.

(Knoxville): On January 28, 2021, the Knox County Health Department (KCHD) said that it will be offering a couple thousand more COVID-19 vaccine appointment for people 75 and older as well as those who qualify in the current vaccine rollout phases. Currently, Knox County is in Phase 1a1 and 1a2 of the Tennessee vaccination plan. This phase includes first responders, healthcare workers, mortuary workers, and dependent disabled adults. KCHD said people will be able to try and schedule an appointment online and by phone on Friday afternoon. The department will announce what time those appointments will open beforehand on Friday morning. This time the department is setting aside appointments specifically for people who call the public information line to schedule one at 865-215-5555, in order to ensure people without internet access will have a change at getting an appointment.

January 26, 2021:

On January 22, 2021, Tennessee added people living in households with medically fragile children to Phase 1c of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan . Phase 1c also includes people age 16 and older who have medical conditions that put them at high risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. This group is further defined in the updated plan and occurs earlier in Tennessee’s plan than in federal vaccination recommendations. Tennessee correctional officers and jailers have been added to Phase 1a1 of Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.

January 25, 2021:

On January 19, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 74 , which encouraged Tennesseans to work from home when possible, encouraged places of worship, weddings, and funerals to continue to use virtual or online services, gave local education agencies the authority to permit school sponsored sporting events and activities as long as they are conducted in a manner consistent with COVID-19 related guidance and rules adopted by the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association , with respect to school-sponsored and other youth athletics, schools, organizers, and facilities shall not permit spectators to attend practices, games, or competition, but spectators may be present in the facility. Collegiate and professional sporting events must follow the rules of their respective institutions and governing bodies.

January 7, 2021:

On January 5 2020, Governor Lee announced a new digital tool that helps residents determine whether they are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. The tool allows users to opt-in to receive updates and notifications about their vaccine phase and provides risk-based and age-based phase information at the county level.

January 6, 2021:

On October 16, the Tennessee Department of Health released Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan . Tennessee’s distribution plan includes tiered priority groups, following guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine’s Framework for Equitable Allocation of COVID-19 Vaccine. Phase 1a, which began in mid-December, is subdivided into two parts (1a1 and 1a2). Phase 1a1 includes in-patient health care providers, adults unable to live independently, first responders with direct exposure to the public and staff members and residents of long-term care facilities. Phase 1a2 includes outpatient healthcare workers with direct patient exposure including mortuary services. As of January 6, all Tennessee counties are in either Phase 1a1 or 1a2.

December 28, 2020:

On December 22, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 73 extending the state of emergency. Executive Order 73 is effective December 29, 2020 and extends until February 27, 2021. Executive Order 73 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements.

December 22, 2020:

On December 20, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 70 placing additional restrictions on indoor public gatherings, including sporting events. Executive Order 70 limits indoor public gatherings to 10 people. Additionally, Order 70 limits the permitted attendees at practices and games to:

• Players’ parents or guardians and immediate household members;
• First Responders;
• Coaching and team personnel;
• School, game, and facility administrators;
• Athletics officials; and
• Media and athletic scouting personnel attending the event in their professional capacity.

Social distancing between persons from different households is required. Further information regarding sporting events can be found on the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s website . Executive Order 70 is effective immediately and will remain in effect through January 19, 2021.

November 2, 2020:

On October 30, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 67 extending the state of emergency until December 29, 2020. Executive Order 67 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements.

October 8, 2020:

Governor Lee and the Financial Stimulus Accountability Group  announced  $50 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds for the  Supplemental Employer Recovery Grant  (SERG) program. Applications are being accepted from October 7 to December 29, or until all funds are depleted. Notably, funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, awards are capped at $30,000, and 10 percent of all funds will be reserved for eligible diversity business enterprises. Awards will be given for reimbursable expenses incurred between May 1, 2020 and August 31, 2020. Expenses and business interruption costs eligible for reimbursement include but are not limited to:

• Costs to create social distancing measures
• Purchasing personal protective equipment for employees or customers
• Contactless equipment
• Payroll expenses
• Mortgage interest

For those interested in applying for reimbursement, the following information has been made available:

• SERG Application
• SERG Calculator
• SERG Definitions
• SERG Webinars
• SERG Guidelines

Applicants can receive additional assistance by calling 1-833-740-1438 or emailing  [email protected]

October 1, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): On September 30, 2020, the Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Order 12 for Nashville and Davidson County, which moves the area into Phase III of reopening. Order 12 lifts certain restrictions on businesses and facilities. The following are a few of the conditions modified by Order 12:

• Bars and restaurants can now welcome up to 100 patrons per floor, plus 100 more outside;
• large events can include up to 500 people or 30% of the venue's capacity with an approved safety plan from Metro Public Health Department; and
• “Transpotainment” vehicles will be allowed to permit up to 25 people, or half capacity, whichever is lower.

Further information on Phase III guidelines can be found here . Order 12 goes into effect at 12 a.m. Thursday, October 1 and will remain in effect until November 1 unless otherwise extended.

September 30, 2020:

On September 29, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 63 extending the state of emergency until October 30, 2020. Under Executive Order 63, restrictions on businesses and gathering sizes in the 89 counties with a state-run health department (previously a 50-person limit) have been removed. However, Executive Order 63 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements. Among others, Executive Order 63 includes the following provisions:

• Persons with COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms are required to stay home and employers may not require or allow employees with COVID-19 or COVID-19 to work;
• Persons are urged to wear masks while in close proximity to others;
• Social distancing from those outside of the household is strongly suggested; and
• A framework for safely visiting nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

A full list of Executive Order 63’s provisions can be found here .

September 22, 2020:

(Knox County): On September 16, 2020, the Knox County Board of Health passed an amended resolution that orders restaurants and bars that serve alcohol to close at 11:00 p.m. The resolution goes into effect on September 18, 2020 and will last for 28 days. The board also passed a resolution to limit gatherings to ensure that no more than 25 persons congregate within the same 900 square feet unless they are residing the in the same household.

• Draft of Sept. 16 Curfew Regarding the Sale or Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages in Certain Establishments [PDF]
• Draft of Sept. 16 COVID-19 Social Group Transmission Suppression Regulation [PDF]
• Aug. 5 Revised COVID-19 Suppression in Bars Regulation [PDF]
• COVID-19 Suppression in Bars Regulation [PDF]
• Knox Co. Board of Health COVID-19 Community Education Recommendation [PDF]
• Governor Lee's Tennessee Pledge
• City & County COVID-19 Phased Reopening Plan

September 21, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Second Amended and Restated Order 11 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause in portions of phase III and extends hybrid phase II of the City and County Roadmap for Reopening Nashville. The Second Amended and Restated Order 11 is effective September 18, 2020 through September 30, 2020 and makes the following changes to the Amended and Restated Order 11 :

• Limited service restaurants and bars that hold an on-premise beer permit, but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC, may now serve up to 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code, so long as patrons are equally distributed throughout the indoor space.
• Restaurants may now stay open until 11:00 p.m.
• Section 7 was revised to allow community, civic and sporting events, parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, private gatherings and similar activities to remain open until 11:00 p.m.
• Section 12 was revised to increase the capacity of so-called “transpotainment.” Pedicabs and pedal carriages may now operate at 50% capacity up to 15 people of the same party, may serve passengers until 11:00 p.m., and may allow alcohol to be consumed by seated persons.
• Section 13 was revised to allow sexually oriented businesses to remain open until 11 p.m. and to increase capacity to the lesser of 50 patrons per floor or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code on premises.

The Chief Medical Director of Nashville/Davidson County also issued the Third Amended and Restated Order 10 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause on portions of phase III and further modifies hybrid phase II of the City and County’s reopening plan. The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 applies only with respect to specified Downtown and Midtown areas and includes the following provisions:

• Continues prohibiting the consumption and possession of alcohol outside of licensed premises
• Increases the number of patrons at licensed Limited Service Restaurants to 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted, provided patrons are equally distributed throughout the entire amount of indoor space
• Continues to limit the number of patrons at licensed Restaurants to the lesser of 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code or 100 patrons per floor
• Distributing patrons equally through their space
• Conforming with CDC and City guidance regarding mask wearing, hand sanitation, and other social distancing measures
• No ancillary or participatory activities such as arcade games, darts, axe throwing, etc.
• All patrons must be off premises and the premises closed between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• Bar counter areas may open at 50% or less of counter capacity and customers are not permitted to stand at the bar
• Live music and entertainment continues to be permitted in accordance with issued guidelines , including that temperatures will be checked upon arrival, musicians will be staged at least 15 feet from patrons, no dance floor is permitted, and performers may not share equipment
• Increases the number of patrons permitted at bars having a beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC to no more than 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code, provided patrons are equally distributed throughout the entire amount of indoor space

The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 is effective September 18, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

September 16, 2020:

(Memphis): The City of Memphis is taking grant applications for the City of Memphis Small Business Stabilization Grant initiative now through December 23, 2020 or until funds are exhausted. The grants are intended to provide economic relief to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury. Grant funds may be used to pay costs of business interruption, working capital, business recovery challenges, and costs associated with safely reopening. Applications are available online .

September 2, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Amended and Restated Order 11 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause in portions of phase III and extends hybrid phase III of the City and County Roadmap for Reopening Nashville. The Amended and Restated Order 11 continues most of the provisions of Order 11 , which was effective August 16, 2020, but makes the following changes:

• Section 2 was revised to allow on-site activities to reopen at hospitality, sports and entertainment, venues, businesses and facilities with an occupancy limit of 1,500 or greater based on TN’s Building and Fire code.
• Limited service restaurants and bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC may increase the number of patrons on their premises to 50 patrons, so long as the number of patrons indoors is the lesser of 25 or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code. Limited service restaurants and bars are subject to the same conditions applicable to restaurants, such as adhering to CDC guidance and City directives regarding social distancing, mask wearing, limited party size, and limits on live music and entertainment.
• Restaurant bar counters may open to the public at 50% or less of seated counter capacity, subject to compliance with CDC guidance on social distancing between parties.
• Water fountains are permitted in limited service restaurants and restaurants.
• Section 7 was revised and expanded to allow more people to attend more types of public gatherings. Community, civic and sporting events, parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, private gatherings and similar activities are now permitted at 30% or less of building capacity based on Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code up to a maximum of 125 people. Sponsors or hosts must file a written plan with the Health Department and obtain advance written approval and must comply with substantially the same conditions required of restaurants.
• Section 12 was revised to permit reopening of so-called “transpotainment.” Pedicabs and pedal carriages may operate at 50% capacity up to 10 people, and larger vehicles may operate at 50% capacity up to a maximum of 25 people, if the vehicle is equipped with seats attached to the vehicle and all passengers remain seated, or a maximum of 10 passengers if any passenger is permitted to stand. Businesses subject to Section 12 must comply with specific conditions, including that the businesses are closed between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., no alcohol is to be consumed by any person in or on the vehicle, and no stops are permitted at any establishment that sells or serves food, beverages or alcohol.
• New Section 13 was added to permit sexually oriented establishments to reopen with the lesser of 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code on premises, and subject to conditions substantially similar to the conditions applicable to restaurants.

September 1, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director of Nashville/Davidson County issued the Second Amended and Restated Order 10 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause on portions of phase III and further modifies hybrid phase II of the City and County’s reopening plan. The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 applies only with respect to specified Downtown and Midtown areas and includes the following provisions:

• Prohibits the consumption and possession of alcohol outside of licensed premises
• Limits the number of patrons at licensed Limited Service Restaurants to 50 patrons on premises, with the lesser or 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted indoors
• Limits the number of patrons at licensed Restaurants to the lesser of 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code or 100 patrons per floor
• No ancillary or participatory activities such as arcade games, darts, axe throwing, among others
• All patrons must be off premises and the premises closed between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• Live music and entertainment is permitted in accordance with issued guidelines , including that temperatures will be checked upon arrival, musicians will be staged at least 15 feet from patrons, no dance floor is permitted, and performers may not share equipment
• Bars having a beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC may operate so long as they do not exceed 50 patrons on the premises, with the lesser of 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted indoors

The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 is effective September 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

August 31, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #59 which continues the state’s COVID-19 response and extends certain provisions of earlier Executive Orders 36, 38, 49, 50, 54 and 55 to allow ongoing regulatory flexibility, including but not limited to the following:

• Activation of the Tennessee Emergency Management Plan
• Out of state health care providers may practice in Tennessee and retired medical professionals may easily reenter the health care workforce
• Suspension of in person and live continuing education requirements for health care professionals
• Suspension of inspections of health care facilities, medical laboratories, mental health facilities, and substance abuse facilities
• Nursing graduates may practice under supervision without examination
• Pharmacists may process prescriptions remotely and each pharmacist may supervise more pharmacy technicians
• Degree holders in science fields may work as laboratory personnel under supervision
• Medical laboratory directors may monitor facilities remotely
• Pre-license, post-degree mental or behavioral health professionals may provide telehealth services under supervision
• Medical laboratory personnel may work remotely
• Suspension of certificate of need requirements for hospitals and nursing homes to the extent necessary to allow them to increase the number of licensed beds for the treatment of COVID-19 patients
• COVID-10 testing may occur at more medical laboratory facilities
• Telephone assessments for involuntary commitment cases are permitted
• Adjustment of TennCare policies to prevent coverage disruptions
• Designation and payment for certain nursing facilities as “COVID-19 Skilled Nursing Facilities/Units”
• Medicaid payments to “COVID-19 Nursing Facilities/Units”
• Expansion of telemedicine access and all licensed health care providers may practice telemedicine
• Temporary quarantine and isolation facilities may be constructed
• Deadlines for building code and building play inspections may be extended
• Time periods for completing securities registration requirements may be extended

Executive Order #59 also extends the certain deadlines, including the following:

• Health care licenses, certificates, and registrations are extended until August 31, 2020
• Driver licenses and photo IDs are extended until November 15, 2020
• Commercial driver licenses with medical cards are extended until September 29, 2020
• Enhanced handgun carp permits are extended through November 15, 2020

Executive Order #59 additionally extends provisions related to social distancing, urging individuals to wear masks in public places, restricting visitation to elderly-citizen and care related facilities, and encouraging use of restaurant carryout and delivery.

Executive Order #59 is effective August 29, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

Governor Bill Lee also signed Executive Order #60 to extend certain provisions relating to government proceedings. The Order permits governing bodies of public bodies, associations, non-profits, state agencies and departments to meet electronically rather than in person if the governing body determines that an electronic meeting is necessary to protect Tennesseans in light of the COVID-19 outbreak. Meetings conducted by electronic means on or before September 30, 2020 must be open and accessible to the public, and the governing body must make reasonable efforts to ensure that the public has live access, and if live access is not feasible then a clear audio or video recording of the meeting must be made available to the public as soon as practicable following the meeting, and in no event more than two business days after the meeting. Governing body meetings held electronically on or after October 1, 2020 must be accessible to the public by real-time, live audio or video access. In addition, a clear audio or video recorder of the meeting must be made available to the publico as soon as practicable following the meeting, and in no event more than two business days following the meeting.

Executive Order #60 is effective August 29, 2020 through October 28, 2020.

Lastly, Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #61 to extend authorization for remote notarization and witnessing of documents. Executive Order #61 is effective August 29, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

August 19, 2020:

On August 17, 2020, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed the "Tennessee COVID-19 Recovery Act" into law. The Act provides COVID-related liability protection to individuals and entities, including health care providers, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. Governor Lee also issued Executive Order No. 58 terminating Order No. 53 which provided limited COVID-related liability protection for health care providers and was rendered moot by enactment of the Tennessee COVID-19 Recovery Act.

August 17, 2020:

Governor Lee has expanded the Tennessee Small Business Relief Program to include additional businesses as long as they have less than $10 million in annual gross sales as shown on April sales tax returns and fall within an industry impacted by executive order limitations or a retail industry that experienced a 25% reduction in taxable sales in the month of April due to the public health emergency. The TN Department of Revenue will provide a full list of eligible businesses and instructions. The TN Department of Agriculture also has an economic support program for agricultural businesses and forestry businesses to help ensure stability of the food supply chain and agribusiness economy. Applications for funding through this program will be accepted through August 31.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director has issued Order 11 Phase Two with Modifications: Reopening . The order supersedes and replaces Amended and Restated Order 7 and Amendment 3 of Order 9. It expires at 11:59 p.m. on August 31, 2020. Most of the requirements are restated from previously orders. Changes are as follows:

• The instructions on limiting capacity and using the entire amount of occupancy space have been amended in most instances to require businesses to equally distribute patrons throughout the space.
• Private gatherings are explicitly added to the list prohibiting crowd sizes of more than 25 people in Section 1
• Food and beverage dining areas in retail and commercial businesses may operate at a maximum 50% capacity if they otherwise comply with the rules for food service businesses in Section 4.
• Limited service restaurants may operate at the lesser of 50% of max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises.
• An entity whose primary business is food service (except limited service restaurants) may operate at the lesser of 50% capacity or 100 patrons per floor.
• Bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but do not hold a license issued by the TN ABC may operate at the lesser of 50% of the max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises.
• Customers and guests at any food establishment shall remain seated, except when entering or exiting the premises, or walking to and from the restroom.
• No-touch beverage filling stations are allowed in food establishments.
• Limited service restaurants and other food service businesses cannot sell alcohol via take-out, window, or cub-side delivery between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
• Live music or entertainment is allowed, subject to the conditions set out in Exhibit B .
• Sport and recreational leagues and sports tournaments may resume, if participants and spectators adhere to crowd-side limitation and CDC guidance on social distancing.
• Guided tours or public programs are allowed to resume at 50% or less of regular capacity provided crowd-size limitations and CDC guidance is maintained at museums, cinemas, bowling alleys, miniature golf, driving ranges, go-carts, water parks, zip lines, paintball, ice or roller rinks, arcades, and similar attractions or participatory activities.
• Ancillary or participatory activities can also resume at the above businesses including arcade games, pool, amusement rides, or similar activities. Cleaning supplies should be provided alongside each activity for customer use.
• Social clubs serving food or beverage are limited to 50% capacity and shall comply with the conditions for food service businesses in Section 4.
• Overnight family camps shall allow only one family per cabin. Each family shall remain together for the duration of the camp having only incidental interaction with others.
• All customers shall be off premises and the premises closed to the public between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
• Seating sufficient for one-half the total attendees shall be provided.
• Section 12 is added which restates the requirements and closures for transportation businesses that were previously in effect.
• Violations of Order 11 shall be subject to civil and criminal penalties.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director issued Amended and Restated Order 10 regarding geographic areas covering Downtown and Midtown . The Order is effective at 11:59 p.m. on August 16, 2020 and remains in effect through 11:59 on August 31, 2020, and makes the following amendments:

• Bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but do not hold a license issued by TN ABC and limited service restaurants may operate at the lesser of 50% max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises and must comply with the additional conditions listed.
• Entities whose primary business is food service (except limited service restaurants) may operate at the lesser of 50% of max. capacity or 100 patrons per floor.
• No party of more than six people shall be allowed.
• Customers and guests shall remain seated, except when entering or exiting the premises, or walking to or from the restroom.
• Bar counter areas must be closed to the public; the bar may be used to prepare and service orders from patrons seated elsewhere. No interaction between the public and bartender shall be allowed. No customer is allowed to stand or sit at the bar.
• Live music or entertainment is allowed, subject to the conditions in Exhibit B.
• Alcohol for on-premises consumption may be served only to seated customers.
• No ancillary or participatory activities including, but not limited to, arcade games, pool, foosball, darts, axe throwing, amusement rides, laser tag, or similar activities shall be allowed.
• All customers shall be off premises and the premise closed to the public between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
• Customers shall not be allowed to remove alcoholic beverages from the premises.
• Except when sold for consumption on premises or for off-premises delivery, the sale of alcohol is prohibited.

August 3, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order No.55 which amends prior executive orders addressing COVID-19 as follows:

• Extends Exec. Order No. 54 providing local government authority regarding face coverings through August 29;
• Extends Exec. Order No. 53 providing limited COVID-10 liability protection for hospitals and health care providers for 30 days;
• Incorporates federal waivers concerning commercial driver licenses;
• Waives Alcoholic Beverage Commission fees for outdoor expansion of restaurants due to COVID-19;
• Establishes COVID-19 specific skilled nursing facilities and provides for Medicaid payments to these facilities; and
• Permits licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselors to practice telemedicine to the same extent as other licensed health care providers.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director of Health issued Order 7 Amended and Restated and Order 9 Amendment 3 , both of which remain in effect through 11:59PM on August 16, 2020.

• The amended and restated Order 7 continues the pause on portions of Phase 3 and further extends a hybrid Phase 2 of the City and County’s reopening plan.
• Clarifies time restrictions on alcohol sales for applicable businesses from no sales of alcohol after 10:00PM to no sales of alcohol between 10:00PM and 5:00AM.
• Clarifies that for limited service restaurants and for bars that hold an on-premise beer permit consumption of alcohol on premises is prohibited at any time.
• Clarifies that for entities whose primary business is food service, all customers shall be off premises and the premise closed to the public between 10:00PM and 5:00AM CST.
• Provides that passenger vehicles for hire designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) or that have a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more shall close to the public, with exceptions for Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority services and intercity carriers of passengers operating under authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that are members of the nationwide intercity bus network and that provide regularly scheduled bus service for the general public.

(Knox County): The Knox County Board of Health issued Regulation No. 2020-3 , which remains in effect until 12:01am August 20, 2020 and may be extended. Bars shall suspend offering food and drink, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption until further notice. Sales for off-premise consumption are allowed. A bar is an establishment that offers alcoholic beverages for on-premise or off-premise consumption and that generates 50% or more if its revenue through alcohol sales. Retirement homes and nursing facilities, places of worship, and government-run establishments are exempt.

July 27, 2020:

(Shelby County): The Shelby County Health Department issued Health Order and Directive No. 9 that supersedes all previous orders and takes effect July 26, 2020 at midnight. Directive No. 9 continues most of the prior safety measures, but makes some changes and additions, including the following:

• Schools have been removed from the list of business and services that must remain closed and are now under the same guidance as childcare.
• Festivals, fairs, parades, and large-scale events may be permitted if the Department has approved a site specific event plan.
• Beer/wine/liquor production facilities (non-restaurants) may continue production but on-premises consumption of alcohol cannot occur.
• Curb-side, drive-thru, or delivery services may continue for bars, restaurants, and clubs, but sale of alcoholic beverages must end at 10:00pm.
• Colleges and universities may open, but retain the sole responsibility in making decisions on providing instruction to students and protecting the health and safety of campus members. They should consult guidance issued by OSHA, the CDC, the State of Tennessee, and the American College of Health Association.
• All services and business must report to the Department any employee who has had contact with a person who tests or has tested positive.
• If an employee tests positive, the area where the employee worked should be closed for cleaning per CDC and OSHA guidelines.
• Live music safety measures now include seating and spacing modifications to increase the distance between any observer and any performer, installation of barriers or alternative placement of performers where necessary to minimize aerosolized particles from performers, maximize physical spacing between performers on-stage by at least 6 feet unless barriers are used, and dancing should not be allowed unless outdoors and dancers maintain 6 feet separation from those not in the same household.
• No standing room/seating at a physical bar.
• Alcohol may only be served with food to customers seated at a table.
• Food service for each table is limited to 2 hours.
• All dine-in food service must end at 10:00pm, and guests must leave at 10:30pm.
• Music must be kept at a level that does not cause patrons to raise their voices to be heard.
• Dancing is not permitted.
• Club houses at golf courses, tennis courts, and other facilities that are full-service restaurants must comply with the requirements.
• If 50% or less of the gross annual revenue comes from the sale of prepared food, restaurants should be prepared to provide sales numbers and a food affidavit by the owner.

July 23, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director signed Amendment 2 to Order 9, Phase Two with Modifications: Reopening . This amendment pauses portions of phase three and extends a hybrid phase two reopening. Restrictions have changed for the following businesses:

• Restaurants and bars may only offer curb-side or off-premise dining until July 31, 2020, and the sale of alcohol is prohibited after 10:00 p.m.
• Pedicabs and pedal carriages, limousines, and vehicles for hire are closed to the public.

Order 9 as amended and Amended, which adopted Restated Order 7 from the Chief Medical Director, remains unchanged and in effect. The Order is effective at 12:01a.m. CDT on July 24, 2020 and remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. on July 31, 2020.

July 22, 2020:

(Memphis): The City of Memphis announced guidelines for expanding outdoor dining for restaurants currently permitted to operate according to the Shelby County Health Directive. Temporary expansion is possible in two ways: (1) onto private property adjacent to the restaurant’s structure, such as a parking lot; and (2) onto public right-of-way such as a sidewalk or street. Restaurants should refer to the guidelines for additional criteria that must be met for expansion.

July 15, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective July 14, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has issued Executive Order No. 34-2020 extending the State of Emergency for another 7 days.

July 13, 2020:

The Department of Revenue has begun to issue payments under the Tennessee Business Relief Program . Eligibility notifications are currently being sent out to businesses via mail or email.

(Knoxville and Knox County): To help support restaurants, the City of Knoxville is now offering permits for the temporary expansion of restaurants into public and private outdoor spaces. Restaurants may apply to use even unconventional spaces, including parking areas, and any unused private or public property. Apply for your temporary permit here .

July 8, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County Health Order and Directive No. 8 , effective July 8, 2020, has imposed further requirements and curfews on businesses. Most notably, bars will no longer be allowed to operate until further notice, and restaurants must close by 10:00 p.m.

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has also issued Executive Order No. 33-2020 extending the state of emergency for another 7 days through July 14, 2020.

July 7, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County’s Health Order and Directive Regarding Masks , issued July 3, 2020, is requiring that businesses post signage at all public entrances stating to the effect:

“Dear Customers/Visitors,

Pursuant to Order of the Shelby County Health Officer for Shelby County, Tennessee, you are REQUIRED to wear a cloth face covering or mask while in this business/facility. This will help PROTECT our EMPLOYEES and EACH OTHER.”

July 6, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order No. 53 , granting healthcare providers limited liability protection for COVID-related injuries except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct until July 31, 2020. This order is made to facilitate accessibility of healthcare services for all in the midst of the pandemic.

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): On Friday, July 3, 2020, Nashville and Davidson County returned to a modified version of Phase Two of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville plan. Guidance highlights include:

• Retail and commercial businesses may operate at 75% capacity
• Gyms and high-touch businesses like hair and nail salons may operate at 50% capacity
• Restaurants may operate at 50% capacity, though bars must remain closed
• Live entertainment is permitted in accordance with regulations
• Public recreational facilities such as parks and sporting courts remain open
• Gatherings must remain at 25 people or less

(Knox County):  Knox County has now aligned its reopening efforts with the State of Tennessee by adopting the Tennessee Pledge Plan. This change will affect most industries, and businesses should consult sector specific guidance on the Knox County Health Department Website .

July 1, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective June 30, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has issued Executive Order No. 32-2020 extending the State of Emergency for another 7 days.

(Knox County): Effective July 1, 2020, Knox County as now aligned its reopening efforts with the State of Tennessee by adopting the Tennessee Pledge Plan. This change will affect most industries, and businesses should consult sector specific guidance on the Knox County Health Department Website .

June 29, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued three Executive Orders, effective June 29, 2020, extending previously issued COVID-19-related orders through August 29, 2020.

• Executive Order #50 extends Executive Orders #36 and #38 , which declared a state of emergency, offered more flexible regulations in regards to businesses offering healthcare-related services, and gave general guidance to other various businesses
• Executive Order #51 extends Executive Order #16 , allowing governing bodies to continue to meet electronically
• Executive Order #52 extends Executive Order #26 , allowing for continued remote notarization and witnessing of documents

June 25, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee reminds Tennessee’s 28,000+ small businesses that funding from the Tennessee Business Relief Program , announced earlier this month, is soon to come. While no application is necessary to claim funds, Gov. Lee urges businesses to make sure all of their information is up-to-date with the Department of Revenue, as the Department will be using available tax data to determine eligibility. The Department has not yet released an official date for when they will begin to disburse funds.

June 23, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County):  Shelby County has issued Health Directive No. 7 , effective June 22, 2020, providing further guidance to currently operating businesses. Notable updates include:

• Community events, such as festivals and sporting events, of fewer than 500 people may now submit a proposed operating plan to the Shelby County Health Department for approval
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities may now allow limited visitation in accordance with outlined safety precautions
• Building occupancy maximums outlined in the plan should be implemented based on the occupancy set by the Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement

This Health Directive also applies to the City of Memphis in accordance with Order No. 30-2020 .

June 22, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): In the wake of Shelby County’s postponement of their Back-to-Business Plan Phase 3, Shelby County has issued Health Directive No. 6 , effective June 15, 2020, providing further safety guidance to individuals and already operating business owners.

(Knox County): Effective July 1, 2020, Knox County will shift away from its local reopening plan and adopt the guidelines of Tennessee’s state-wide Tennessee Pledge program. This will allow businesses in most industries to resume operations with increased precautions and work from home policies where possible. Until that time, Knox County will continue to operate under Phase 2 of the Knox County & City of Knoxville community reopening plan.

June 18, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): The City of Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 3 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, June 22, 2020. Effective June 22, retail stores, commercial businesses, and restaurants may continue to operate at 75% capacity. Restaurants may now reopen their bar areas at 50% of seated capacity, though no standing at bars will be allowed. Gyms and exercise facilities, museums, and small venue entertainment may continue to operate at 50% capacity. Higher-touch entertainment businesses such as bars, clubs, event venues, and tour businesses may now begin to operate at 50% capacity. For bar areas, this capacity must be assessed based on available bar seating. Additionally, small music venues and event spaces must cap their event size at 250 people. Live music and entertainment will be allowed in accordance with public health orders. Gatherings are recommended to continue observing a 25-person maximum. Residents of 65+ and high-risk individuals are recommended to remain at home to the extent possible, masks continue to be required in public, and individuals that are able to work from home should continue to do so whenever possible.

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective June 16, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland issued Order No. 30-2020 adopting the current and any future Health Directives issued by Shelby County. On Monday, June 15th, 2020, Shelby County officials further postponed the move to Phase 3 of the Back-to-Business plan expected to happen that day.

(Knoxville and Knox County): Effective May 26th, 2020, the City of Knoxville and Knox County entered Phase 2 of their community reopening plan . Phase 2 builds on Phase 1, and all industries open during Phase 1 may continue to operate. Food truck parks, drinking only establishments, and businesses allowing onsite food and beverage consumption may now be opened for seating-only service. Bar and counter seating, and self-service food and drink services continue to be disallowed. Outdoor recreation spaces, libraries, and indoor/outdoor event venues may now operate at a maximum capacity of 50 people. Personal care services that require removal of face covering, personal training facilities, and senior centers remain closed. Phase 2 also increases the maximum number of people allowed at social gatherings to 50 people.

May 26, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #38 which encourages Tennesseans to return to work while complying with the Economic Recovery Group’s Guidelines . Executive Order #38 includes the following provisions that:

• Continue to promote social distancing and urge people to wear masks in public.
• Encourage businesses and organizations to return to work while allowing employees to continue working from home.
• Permit groups of up to 50 people to participate in social and recreational activities—this limit does not apply to places of worship, weddings, funerals and related events, and it does not preclude more than 50 people from gathering in a single venue so long as they are in smaller groups that maintain appropriate social distance.
• Allow bars to reopen in accordance with restaurant guidelines.
• Continue to prohibit contact sporting events and activities, except that collegiate and professional sporting events and activities are permitted in accordance with the rules of their respective governing bodies.
• Direct senior centers, nursing homes and similar such facilities for the elderly to remain closed to visitors, unless in the discretion of the facility the visit involves critical assistance for the resident, is to a resident receiving end of life care, or may be accomplished without unreasonable risk to other residents or staff.
• Continue to allow take-out alcohol sales by restaurants so as to encourage carry out and delivery orders.

Executive Order #38 is repeals Executive Orders #30 , #33 , and #35 , and went into effect May 22, 2020.

May 21, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 2 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, May 25, 2020. On May 25, retail stores, commercial businesses, and restaurants may reopen at 75% capacity. Restaurant and bars must remain closed, but live entertainment with no more than 2 performers at a time is permitted with proper social distancing. Gyms, recreation facilities, museums, nail salons, hair salons, and tattoo parlors may open at half capacity. Socially driven businesses such as bars and clubs remain closed. Gatherings of up to 25 people are permitted. Residents 65 and older and high risk individuals should remain at home. All residents should wear masks in public, and those with the ability to work from home should continue to do so.

May 19, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective May 18, 2020 the City of Memphis and Shelby County moved into Phase II of their Back-to-Business Plan. The move to Phase II allows gatherings of up to 50 people so long as they observe social distancing and wear masks, increases capacity for libraries and gyms from 25% to 50%, and allows recreation facilities such as bowling alleys, arcades, and dance classes to open at 50% capacity so long as people remain in groups of less than 10 people and avoid contact with individuals from other groups. Contact sport facilities, car washes, nail salons, tattoo parlors, and swimming pools are also allowed to open in conformance with industry-specific protocols.

May 12, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued two executive orders. Executive Order #36 extends and consolidates provisions from several previous Executive Orders to continue the suspension of a very wide range of laws in response to the COVID-19 emergency, including provisions relating to health care services, prescription processing, laboratory services, emergency services, transportation services, unemployment benefits, financial services, and child care services. Executive Order #36 also extends the prohibition against price gauging through June 1, 2020, and expiration dates for many licenses and inspections are extended or suspended. Executive Order #36 is effective May 18, 2020 through June 30, 2020.

Executive Order #37 extends the provisions of Executive Order #36, to continue allowing remote notarization and witnessing of documents. Executive Order #37 is effective May 18, 2020 through June 29, 2020.

May 8, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #35 which amended Executive Order #30 to allow small-group, non-contact entertainment, recreational and other gathering venues to open on May 8, 2020, so long as people are in groups of less than 10 and people maintain at least 6 feet of separation from other people or groups of less than 10 outside of their own group. Examples of venues that may be permitted to open include bowling alleys, climbing gyms, water sports, golf driving ranges and dance classes. Bars, night clubs, live performance venues, theaters, amusement parks, and other venues where operation is likely to result in people being in groups of 10 or more or coming into close proximity to other people outside their household or small group of less than 10 people must remain closed. All businesses that reopen under Executive Order #35 should comply with the Economic Recovery Group’s Non-contact Recreation Guidelines .

May 7, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 1 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, May 11, 2020. On May 11, retail stores, restaurants, and commercial businesses may reopen at half capacity, all residents should wear masks in public, and no gatherings of more than 10 people are permitted. Residents 65 and over should remain at home and those having the ability to work at home should continue to do so.

(City of Memphis): Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland issued two Orders continuing Phase 1 of the City’s reopening plan and the COVID-19 state of emergency. Order No. 13-2020 amends and replaces Order No. 12-2020, and includes the following:

• Individuals should stay home except when engaging in necessary activities and should minimize in person contact outside of those in their household
• Individuals must comply with Social Distancing Requirements and are encouraged to wear masks when in public
• Gatherings of 10 or more remain prohibited
• Operate in accordance with the COVID-19 Compliant Protocol
• Comply with occupancy limits
• Practice social distancing
• Certain businesses remain closed, including close contact personal services, entertainment and performance venues, contact sport facilities, and public playground equipment
• Big box grocery, pharmacy and hardware stores must provide at least one hour of access for vulnerable populations, i.e., those 55 and older, pregnant or with serious underlying medical conditions
• Medical and dental procedures and operation of places of worship are subject to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Orders

Mayor Strickland also issued Order No. 14-2020 extending his declaration of a state of emergency relating to COVID-19 an additional 7 days, through May 11, 2020.

Both Orders are effective May 5, 2020.

May 6, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #33 amending Executive Order #30 to permit close contact businesses to open in accordance with the Close Contact Business Guidelines . Affected businesses include but are not limited to barber shops, hair salons, nail salons, tanning salons, and tattoos services.

Governor Lee also issued Executive Order #34 which extends the provisions of Executive Order #16 to allow governing bodies to continue to meet electronically regarding essential business through June 30, 2020, provided they meet certain requirements to ensure public access, transparency and openness.

Both Executive Orders #33 and #34 are effective May 6, 2020.

May 3, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #32 which amends Executive Order #15 to:

• Extend the prohibition on price gouging until May 18, 2020
• Extend the deadline for TNIvestco annual audited financial statements until July 31, 2020
• Authorize free copies of business entity filings for those seeking state or federal financial relief until August 1, 2020
• Allow discretion to utilize the Tennessee National Guard to assist in the operation and security of state penitentiaries during the COVID-19 emergency
• Permit remote shareholder meetings provided certain requirements are met, including the ability of shareholders to submit questions, read or hear the proceedings, be deemed present, and vote
• Suspend certain requirements regarding service level requirements of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Facilitate the provision of, and payment for, physical, occupational and speech therapy services through telemedicine

(Knoxville and Knox County) Knoxville and Knox County began their gradual reopening of business May 1, 2020. Knoxville and Knox County have adopted a three phase approach, each phase will last at least 28 days.

(Memphis and Shelby County) Shelby County, the City of Memphis and surrounding municipalities announced that they will begin phase 1 of their Back to Business framework on Monday, May 4, 2020.

(Nashville and Davidson County) The Safer at Home Order for Nashville and Davidson County is in effect through May 8, 2020. On May 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Director for Nashville and Davidson County issued Order 4 , directing citizens to wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover their nose and mouth whenever in a community setting. The Order notes that face coverings or masks are not a substitute for social distancing and advises that they should not be placed on children under the age of 2 or when it would be contrary to the wearer’s health or safety. The Order also directs businesses to post signage at all public entrances advising them of the need to wear masks. Order 4 is effective May 1 through May 31, 2020.

May 1, 2020:

(Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County, the City of Memphis and surrounding municipalities announced that they will being phase 1 of their Back to Business framework on Monday, May 4, 2020.

(Nashville and Davidson County): The Safer at Home Order for Nashville and Davidson County extends through May 8, 2020. On May 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Director for Nashville and Davidson County issued Order 4 , directing citizens to wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover their nose and mouth whenever in a community setting. The Order notes that face coverings or masks are not a substitute for social distancing and advises that they should not be placed on children under the age of 2 or when it would be contrary to the wearer’s health or safety. The Order also directs businesses to post conspicuous signage at all public entrances advising them of the need to wear masks. Order 4 is effective May 1 through May 31, 2020.

(Knoxville and Knox County): Knoxville and Knox County are beginning their gradual reopening of business May 1, 2020. Knoxville and Knox County have adopted a three phase approach, each phase will last at least 28 days.

April 30, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #31 which continues the bar on non-emergency dental or oral procedures, including hygiene visits, cosmetic procedures, and other elective procedures, through May 5, 2020. The bar on non-emergency dental procedures was first issued by Executive Order #18 , effective March 24, 2020 and continued through April 30, 2020 by Executive Order #25 .

Tennessee’s Economic Recovery Group (ERG) released guidance for reopening close contact services on May 6.

April 29, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #30 , which repeals Tennessee’s Stay at Home order and establishes guidelines for returning to work in Tennessee. Among its provisions, the Order:

• Encourages Tennesseans to return to work, while also urging employers to enable employees to work remotely from home
• Limits social gatherings of 10 or more people, but specifically excludes religious services, weddings and funerals from this limitation
• Urges people to wear face coverings when in public places
• Instructs people to take special care to protect vulnerable
• Maintains restriction on visitors to nursing homes and similar facilities

Businesses that provide close contact personal services (such as barber shops, hair salons and tattoo parlors) and entertainment venues (such as bars, night clubs and live performance venues) remain closed until further notice. The Order urges businesses that are reopening to comply with guidance issued by Tennessee’s Economic Recover Group (ERG) and the Health Guidelines set forth in the Order.

Finally, the Order precludes local orders, except in six metropolitan counties that have their own health department (Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, Madison, Shelby and Sullivan counties), and no local orders are permitted regarding provision of medical and dental procedures.

Executive Order #30 is effective April 29 through May 29, 2020, and its expressly supersedes and repeals Executive Order #17 , Executive Order #21 , Executive Order #22 , Executive Order #23 , Executive Order #27 , and Executive Order #29 .

April 28, 2020:

Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge lays out his plan for reopening Tennessee businesses when the statewide Stay At Home Order expires on April 30. Restaurants were permitted to open at half capacity effective April 27, 2020 and retail stores are permitted to open at half capacity effective April 29, 2020 so long as they comply with the ERG’s retail guidelines. On April 28, Tennessee’s Economy Recovery Group (ERG) released guidance for safely reopening gyms and exercise facilities effective May 30, 2020. Note, the Tennessee Pledge does not apply to three metropolitan counties in Tennessee (Shelby, Davidson and Knox), which developed their own phased plans for reopening.

April 27, 2020:

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke announced on Twitter that the city would reopen restaurants in accordance with Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Order #29 . Chattanooga is located in Hamilton County, which announced last week that it would reopen in accordance with Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge .

Shelby County and the City of Memphis, Tennessee announced their Back to Business Framework , a three phase approach for reopening. The plan applies to Shelby County, the City of Memphis and six surrounding municipalities. The Back to Business Framework will take effect following the expiration of the current Safer at Home orders. Shelby County’s Safer at Home order expires on April 30, 2020, and Memphis’s Safer at Home order extends through May 5, 2020.

Knox County and Knoxville leaders announced their reopening plan , which calls for a three phase reopening of business beginning on May 1, 2020.

April 26, 2020:

Tennessee’s Stay At Home Order expires on April 30. Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge lays out his plan for reopening Tennessee businesses. On April 24, 2020, Governor Lee issued Executive Order #29 , which amends prior Executive Orders to allow restaurants to reopen for on-siting dining effective April 27, 2020. Executive Order #29 requires restaurants to operate in accordance with the restaurant guidelines issued by Governor Lee’s Economic Recovery Group (ERG). Executive Order #29 applies unless a local county health department in one of six counties independently prohibits or otherwise regulates the operation of restaurants in its county. The six counties (Shelby, Madison, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox and Sullivan counties) are cooperating with the ERG to plan their unique operating strategies. The Mayors of Tennessee’s largest cities, Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga, formed the Tennessee Major Metros Economic Restart Task Force to plan and coordinate the restoration of business in their cities.

(Memphis): Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland’s Safer at Home order extends through May 5, 2020, however Mayor Strickland stated that his plan for reopening with conditions will be announced early the week of April 27, 2020.

Davidson County (Nashville): Nashville’s Safer at Home order expired on April 24, 2020 and Nashville Mayor Jim Cooper announced the city’s Roadmap for Reopening. The Roadmap for Reopening Nashville establishes four phases of reopening based on progressive progress and improvement in metrics related to new cases of COVID-19, testing capacity and results, public health capacity to investigate and monitor cases, and health care system capacity. Phase 1 is currently in effect, and requires all residents to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. Restaurants and bars remain closed except for curbside service and takeout, retail stores, nail and hair salon, gyms, playgrounds and sports venues remain closed. Healthcare and dental services may begin providing routine and elective care beginning on April 30, 2020 for individuals less than age 70. Phase 2 will go into effect when there is positive improvement/stability in metrics for 14 days.

Knox County (Knoxville): Knox County continues to operate under Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Stay At Home Order which expires on April 30, 2020. Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs and Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon issued a joint statement on April 24, 2020 announcing that they will make a further announcement regarding plans to reopen on Monday, April 27, 2020.

April 22, 2020:

The Stay At Home Order in Tennessee expires on April 30. On April 21, Governor Lee announced a plan for re-opening the economy in 89 of the state’s 95 counties. A phased reopening is set to begin on April 27, to reopen certain non-essential businesses such as retail, restaurants and close contact services. Tennessee’s Economic Recovery Group is working with officials from the remaining six counties (Shelby, Madison, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox and Sullivan) which comprise the state’s major metropolitan areas to plan their unique reopening strategies. Further and up to date information on all orders in place in Tennessee can be accessed here .

April 15, 2020:

Governor Lee announced that free COVID-19 testing will be available for any Tennessean regardless of traditional symptoms. Expanded testing will begin this weekend, April 18-19 with the Tennessee National Guard establishing 15 drive through testing sites across the state. Drive through test sites will also be available April 25-26 and May 2-3.

April 14, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 27 which extends the social distancing and stay at home requirements of prior Executive Orders until April 30, 2020. Executive Order 27 orders the extension of Executive Order 17 , Executive Order 21 , Executive Order 22 and Executive Order 23 , which collectively require Tennesseans to stay at home unless engaged in Essential Activity or Essential Services, and closed non-essential businesses.

April 9, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #25 which is effective April 9 through 30, 2020. The Order amends and supersedes Executive Order #18 and requires health care facilities and providers to postpone elective and non-urgent surgical and invasive procedures. It defines elective and non-urgent procedures as “procedures that can be delayed until the expiration of this Order because they are not required to provide life-sustaining treatment, to prevent death or risk of substantial impairment of a major bodily function, or to prevent rapid deterioration or serious adverse consequences to a patient’s physical condition” as reasonably determined by a licensed medical provider. The Order additionally:

• Requires health care facilities and providers to limit attendance in the rooms where surgeries and invasive procedures are being performed to essential personnel
• Encourages non-hospital health care providers not impacted by the Order to provide necessary personal protective equipment to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency
• Reiterates the directive of Executive Order 18 prohibiting dental providers from performing non-emergency dental or oral procedures
• Suspends any state or local law, order, rule or regulation that would limit the application of the Order

April 3, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #23 which requires Tennesseans to stay at home except when engaging in Essential Activity. The Governor issued Executive Order 23 in response to information indicating that citizens were not heeding Executive Order #22 , which simply urged citizens to stay home except to engage in Essential Activities. All other provisions of Executive Order 22 remain in effect, including the definitions of Essential Activity and Essential Services.

Governor Lee also issued Executive Order #24 which amends Executive Order #15 to extend and broaden suspension of certain laws and regulations across a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:

• Use of telemedicine services for treatment of diagnosed behavioral or mental health conditions
• Price gouging prohibitions (extended through April 18, 2020)
• Suspension of the expiration of marriage licenses until June 30, 2020
• Extension of the deadline for filing applications for tax relief and tax freeze until July 1, 2020
• Easing of requirements for previously certified law enforcement officers to work full-time
• Extension of the deadline for filing professional privilege taxes until July 1, 2020

Executive Order #24 is effective until May 18, 2020.

March 31, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 21 and Executive Order 22 .

Executive Order 21 extends the effective date of Executive Order 17 through April 14, 2020 and adds additional businesses and venues that should not be open to the public, including but not limited to barber shops and hair salons, spas, tattoo parlors, night clubs, theaters and children’s indoor play areas.

Executive Order 22 implements Safer at Home provisions, directing citizens to stay at home unless engaging in Essential Activities or Services and ordering the closure of non-essential businesses for public use. Critical infrastructure remains operational and government entities will continue to provide services. Orders 17 and 21 remain in full force and effect. Order 22 is effective April 1 and remains in effect through April 14.

Essential Activities include, but are not limited to:

• Activities essential to a person’s health and safety
• Obtaining necessary services or supplies
• Providing or receiving delivery or curbside carry out
• Engaging in outdoor activity, but not including congregating or playing on playgrounds
• Caring for or visiting a family member or friend
• Visiting a place of worship or attending a wedding or funeral
• Engaging in Essential Travel

Essential Travel includes:

• Travel related to Essential Activity
• Travel related to Essential Services
• Travel to care for vulnerable persons
• Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for distance learning or related services
• Travel to or from the State of Tennessee
• Travel required by law, law enforcement or court order

Essential Services include:

• Personnel identified by the Department of Homeland Security in its Advisory Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response
• Health Care and Public Health Operations
• Human Services Operations
• Essential Infrastructure Operations
• Essential Government Functions
• Food and Medicine Stores
• Food and Beverage Production and Agriculture
• Organizations the Provide Charitable and Social Services
• Religious and Ceremonial Functions
• Gas Stations and Businesses needed for Transportation
• Financial Institutions and Insurance Entities
• Hardware and Supply Stores
• Critical Trades
• Mail, Post, Shipping, Logistics, Delivery, and Pick-Up Services
• Educational Institutions
• Laundry Services
• Restaurants for Off-Premises Consumption
• Supplies to Work from Home
• Supplies for Essential Businesses and Operations
• Transportation
• Home-based Care and Services
• Residential Facilities and Shelters
• Professional Services
• Manufacturing, Distribution and Supply Chain for Critical Products and Industries
• Hotels and Motels
• Funeral Services
• Any business listed as an Essential Activity as defined in Executive Order 22
• Any other business or organization that operates at all times with 10 or fewer people accessing the premises at any time
• The minimum necessary activities required to maintain any business or organization whether otherwise essential or not

March 27, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #20 which suspended certain licensing and oversight requirements for health care facilities and providers, including rules relating to initial licensure fees and notarization requirements, continuing education requirements, inspections and investigations related to complaints and surveys, ratio of pharmacy technicians and pharmacists, on-site oversight of laboratories by medical laboratory directors, and telehealth services.

March 26, 2020:

(City of Nashville): On March 22, The City of Nashville’s Chief Medical Director issued Order 3, Safer at Home , urging citizens to stay home, prohibiting gatherings of ten or more people, and directing all non-essential businesses to close their facilities. The Order is effective for 14 days, and may be extended.

The Order does not apply to activities necessary to maintain continuity of operations of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified by the Department of Homeland Security in CISA guidelines. Other essential services are also excluded, including but not limited to:

• Federal and state offices and services, and private companies performing under federal, state or local government contracts
• Essential government functions such as law enforcement, public transportation and government programs and services
• Media, communication and telecommunication services
• Grocery and beverage stores, and other businesses that support food supply
• Health care services, including health information technology, staffing and supplies
• Sanitation and waste removal
• Banks, real property services, and legal services
• Construction, product and parcel transportation, and essential building maintenance and security

March 25, 2020:

(City of Memphis): Mayor Strickland for the City of Memphis issues a Safer at Home Executive Order through April 7 calling all residents to stay at home and closing all non-essential businesses.

The following municipalities of Memphis issued similar orders calling all residents to stay at home and closing all non-essential businesses.

• Arlington order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.
• Bartlett order effective midnight March 24 until midnight March 31 unless otherwise extended.
• Collierville order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until further notice.
• Germantown order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until further notice.
• Lakeland order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.
• Millington order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.

Governor Lee declined to issue a statewide shelter in place order

March 23, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 18 limiting performance of non-essential medical and dental procedures, including any procedure that is not necessary to address a medical emergency or preserve a patient’s health and safety. Hospitals and free standing surgical outpatient facilities were directed to postpone at minimum the following procedures, except where postponement would significantly impact the health, safety or welfare of the patient:

• Joint replacement
• Bariatric surgery
• Cosmetic surgery
• Non-emergency dental and oral procedures

Procedures excluded from postponement include:

• Surgeries related to advanced cardiovascular disease
• Oncological testing and treatment
• Pregnancy related care
• Organ transplants
• Emergency or trauma related procedures
• Emergency dental and oral treatment

Executive Order 18 further requests non-hospital providers to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) that is not required for emergency care to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency by delivering it to the nearest open Tennessee National Guard Armory between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Executive Order 18 is effective March 24 through April 12.

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Pursuant to the Declaration of Public Health Emergency adopted by the Board of Health for city of Nashville and Davidson County on March 15, 2020, the Chief Medical Director of the Metro Public Health Department issued a “Safer At Home Order .”

This Order requires all individuals living in Nashville and Davidson County to stay at home except for essential activities and essential government functions. The Order also does not apply to the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified in the CISA Guidelines . Essential Activities include federal and state offices and services, essential Nashville government functions including law enforcement, stores that sell groceries, essential healthcare and public health operations, sanitation and waste removal services, utilities services, pharmacy and medical supply businesses, gas stations, legal and judicial services, laundromats, hardware supply, warehousing and storage, certain construction services, parcel transportation services, veterinary and pet supply business and services including agricultural services and the caring and feeding of all livestock and farm animals, home and business cleaning and maintenance services, all businesses which rely upon deliveries may continue, including florists, internet and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services), print, online and broadcast media, and certain other business and services the Health Department in coordination with Metro Legal and the Office of the Mayor determines are essential for the continued safety and security of Davidson County. This Order is effective at 12:01 a.m. March 23, 2020, and shall remain in effect for 14 days, subject to extension.

March 22, 2020:

Governor Lee issued an Executive Order that prohibits social gatherings of 10 or more people. The Order also contains following provisions regarding restaurants, bars, and similar food and drink establishments: (1) Establishments are to exclusively offer drive-thru, take-out or delivery options to support families, businesses and the food supply chain during this emergency; and (2) Establishments may sell alcohol by take-out or delivery (with the purchase of food) in closed containers to those who are age 21 and over. This Order is effective 12:01 a.m. March 23, 2020, through 12:01 a.m. April 6, 2020.

March 20, 2020:

(Williamson County):   County Sheriff's Office will not serve eviction notices to residents, but will still serve civil papers.

March 17, 2020:

(Davidson County): All evictions and service of civil papers suspended "until further notice" in Davidson County (serving Nashville). No clarification as to commercial, residential, or both. Exceptions include orders of protection, child custody orders, papers related to protection of elderly, vulnerable persons and healthcare workers. Court offices are still open with skeleton crews to receive civil papers/eviction filings, but they won't come before the court until April 10 in Nashville. Sheriff has halted evictions at all stages of the process for the time being, regardless if courts move forward with their procedure.

For more information on this state's COVID-19 rules:

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• The Link Virtual Office 
• Washington, DC 

Traveling from Tennessee? Here's where you'll have to quarantine

Tennesseans traveling outside state lines might want to add some extra days to their itineraries for quarantining.

Multiple states have issued advisories for people who have spent time in Tennessee, where COVID-19 cases continue to rise. 

The most notable examples are New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, which all require an immediate 14-day quarantine for people traveling from Tennessee.

Each of these states is using the same guidelines to determine which travelers must quarantine. Anyone arriving from a state with a 10% or higher positive test rate or with more than 10 per 100,000 residents over a seven-day rolling average must quarantine for two weeks. 

As of July 14, travelers from these states would be subject to quarantine under the guidelines:

• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina

Enforcing the travel advisory 

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced this week that enforcement teams are stationed at New York airports to make sure travelers are following quarantine restrictions. 

The New York State Department of Health has mandatory travel forms, which airlines are giving to passengers boarding flights to New York. 

These forms also are available online and are being checked by enforcement teams as passengers get off planes in New York. 

Anyone who leaves a New York airport without filling out the form can receive a $2,000 fine and be ordered to complete a mandatory quarantine. 

This form must also be filled out by anyone coming to New York by any other form of transportation, including train or car. 

"New York's success in fighting the COVID-19 virus is under two threats: lack of compliance and the virus coming to New York from other states with increasing infection rates," Cuomo said, according to a news release. 

Exemptions to advisories 

New York has exemptions for essential workers, while Connecticut is exempting anyone working in critical infrastructure .

New Jersey's exemptions include travel for critical infrastructure workers and business.

"This, for example, would include truckers driving from an impacted state to New Jersey, and any state, local and federal officials and employees traveling in their official capacities on government business," according to the state travel advisory. 

Travelers who come from high-risk states but only have a layover in New Jersey or Connecticut do not have to quarantine. 

Major cities requiring quarantine  

Chicago has in place a  14-day quarantine requirement for travelers coming from Tennessee, although Illinois does not have statewide restrictions. 

Tennessee is among 15 states included on the city's mandatory quarantine list, which is updated weekly.

Washington, D.C., has added restrictions for Tennessee travels are well. Those who enter the district for nonessential travel must self-quarantine for 14 days. 

Oklahoma and Iowa will be included in the city's travel advisory starting Friday, along with these states already on the list: 

• California 

Chicago's guidelines are less strict than those of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. The city requires people quarantine if they are coming from states with a rate higher than 15 new cases per 100,000 residents over a seven-day rolling average. 

Travelers are not required to quarantine if they are changing flights at a Chicago airport or are immediately traveling outside the city. 

There are some exceptions for people traveling to Chicago for work. A full list of requirements and exemptions can be found at chicago.gov. 

A recommendation from Pennsylvania 

Pennsylvania recommends residents stay home for 14 days after traveling to Tennessee but is not requiring it. The same goes for visitors coming from Tennessee. 

The recommended quarantine currently applies to travelers coming from these states:

No restrictions from Tennessee 

Though it's listed in other states' travel advisories, Tennessee does not have any travel restrictions of its own. 

State and local leaders in Tennessee have pushed to reopen Tennessee safely, but cases continue to rise. 

The state reported 1,514 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, bringing the statewide total to 66,788. 

Nearly 28,000 of those cases are active. 

Those figures came one day after Tennessee again broke its record for the highest single-day increase of COVID-19 cases.

Safe travel in the United States

It's simple: "Travel increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

"Most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes," according to the CDC. "However, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights, and you may have to sit near others (within 6 feet), sometimes for hours."

Plus, air travel requires standing in lines where germs can spread on surfaces and where social distancing can be difficult. 

Even traveling by car can come with risks. Making stops for food and gas along the way can put you in contact with other people and contaminated surfaces, according to the CDC. 

People should consider where they are visiting and who they are visiting, especially if that includes someone who might be at-risk for COVID-19. 

If you must travel, the CDC recommends you wash your hands frequently, keep distance from other people, avoid touching your face and wear a cloth face covering in public. 

Drive-thru food and curbside pickup is recommended while traveling, and everyone should cover their coughs and sneezes. 

As of Tuesday, the CDC said  there have been at least 3,355,457 cases reported in the United States, with 135,235 deaths. 

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What is COVID-19?

Who can get covid-19, can i travel if i recently had covid-19, what can travelers do to prevent covid-19, more information.

CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance has been updated. The content of this page will be updated soon.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets and small particles produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus spreads easily in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings.

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms   – ranging from no or mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. Possible symptoms include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, new loss of taste and smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Anyone can get COVID-19. However, some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. These include people who are older, are  immunocompromised , or have certain  disabilities , or have  underlying health conditions .  Vaccination, past infection, and timely access to testing and treatment can help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

Yes, you can travel once you have ended isolation . Check CDC guidance for additional precautions, including testing and wearing a mask around others. If you recently had COVID-19 and are recommended to wear a mask, do not travel on public transportation such as airplanes, buses, and trains if you are unable to wear a mask whenever around others.

Get  up to date  with your COVID-19 vaccines before you travel and take steps to protect yourself and others . Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs. Take additional precautions if you were recently exposed to a person with COVID-19. Don’t travel while sick.

If you have a  weakened immune system  or  are at increased risk for severe disease talk to a healthcare professional before you decide to travel.  If you travel, take multiple prevention steps to provide additional layers of protection from COVID-19, even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. These include improving ventilation and spending more time outdoors, avoiding sick people, getting tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms, staying home if you have or think you have COVID-19, and seeking treatment if you have COVID-19.

Consider getting travel insurance in case you need medical care abroad .

Consider getting a COVID-19 test if you:

• Develop COVID-19 symptoms before, during, or after travel.
• Will be traveling to visit someone who is at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.
• Were in a situation with a greater risk of exposure during travel (e.g., in an indoor, crowded space like an airport terminal while not wearing a mask).

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare professional, and tell them about your recent travel.

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United States Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to the United States

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

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Can I travel to the United States from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United States.

Can I travel to the United States if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the United States without restrictions.

Can I travel to the United States without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the United States without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the United States?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the United States.

Can I travel to the United States without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the United States?

Mask usage in the United States is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the United States?

Restaurants in the United States are open. Bars in the United States are .

An official website of the United States government

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

Visitors to the U.S. do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check Department of State travel advisories for the country you will visit.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

You do not need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or take a COVID-19 test to enter the U.S. This applies to U.S. citizens and non-citizens.

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific travel advisories, including COVID-19 restrictions, from the Department of State.

See the CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel to learn:

• If you can travel if you recently had COVID-19
• What you can do to help prevent COVID-19 

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

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Thinking of Traveling in the U.S.? Check Which States Have Travel Restrictions

Some states still have measures in place for visitors, from testing to quarantine requirements.

By Karen Schwartz

This list, updated May 12, will not longer be updated, as many of the states have removed travel restrictions put in place because of the pandemic. The updates for international destinations will continue.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says those who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus can safely travel within the United States, but others are asked to avoid traveling to minimize the chance they will expose themselves or others to the potentially deadly virus.

For those who aren’t two weeks out from their final shot, the C.D.C. asks that they get a viral test one to three days before their departure, and again three to five days after their return. Even with a negative test, travelers are advised to stay home and avoid nonessential activities for a week upon their return. People who don’t get tested should extend that to 10 days, and both groups should avoid others at high risk for 14 days.

People who are fully inoculated do not need to get tested before or after travel unless their destination requires it, according to the C.D.C. The same applies to self-quarantine.

The C.D.C. offer two useful tools online to help vacationers plan their trips. One site links to state and local restrictions by city, state or ZIP code. The other includes a color-coded map of the infection rate by state , so people can easily see how prevalent the virus is at their destination.

All travelers regardless of vaccination status should keep their guard up and use safety precautions when away from home: wear a face mask in airports and stations, and on planes, trains, and buses, avoid large gatherings and stay at least six feet from others, wash hands frequently and keep hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol in close reach.

Here is a summary of restrictions in the United States for leisure travelers in effect as of May 11, unless otherwise noted. Many states do not apply them to those staying for less than 24 hours. Some municipalities or counties may have more stringent regulations. There are generally exemptions for essential workers who are on the job, including health care workers, members of the military and others, but even they may be subject to some restrictions . Visits for medical care or study are considered essential in some states, but not in others.

International restrictions can be found in our companion story on international destinations that have reopened to American citizens.

There are no statewide restrictions in Alabama.

There are no requirements, however a state advisory says, “Since testing of non-vaccinated travelers is the best means for limiting the spread of Covid-19 virus and variants, it is recommended that non-vaccinated travelers test prior to travel or take advantage of free and optional Covid-19 testing available at primary ports of entry in Alaska.”

An optional online travel portal is the hub for traveler information. Current plans are for the state to start offering free Covid-19 vaccines at some airports beginning June 1.

Some communities have their own restrictions, which can be looked up on an interactive website .

There are no statewide restrictions in Arizona.

There are no statewide restrictions in Arkansas.

The state is recommending people follow C.D.C. guidance , including limiting nonessential travel to those who are fully vaccinated.

Most of California is open to visitors, but regional and local restrictions may be in place. All restrictions, except those for conventions of more than 5,000 attendees, are expected to lift on June 15 .

There are no statewide restrictions. The state is recommending people follow C.D.C. guidance , including limiting nonessential travel to those who are fully vaccinated.

Connecticut

There are no statewide restrictions in Connecticut. Visitors are advised to follow C.D.C. guidance .

There are no statewide restrictions in Delaware.

District of Columbia

Except for those who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and asymptomatic, or those who were infected with the virus in the previous 90 days and are fully recovered, anyone visiting for more than 24 hours from a high risk area must get a negative coronavirus test no more than 72 hours before their arrival. If they are staying in Washington for more than three days, they must have another test done three to five days after arriving. If the test is positive the visitor, and any close contacts, must complete their isolation before traveling home. A high risk area is considered any jurisdiction with more than 10 positive cases per 100,000 people per day. The local government isn’t providing a list, but an interactive map put together by The New York Times provides that information.

The order does not apply to travelers from Maryland and Virginia who have not been in a high risk area in the previous two weeks. As of May 2, it also excludes visitors from Alabama, Arkansas, California, Guam, Hawaii, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Northern Mariana Islands and the Virgin Islands.

There are no statewide restrictions in Florida.

There are no statewide restrictions in Georgia.

Travelers ages 5 and older wishing to bypass the 10-day mandatory quarantine on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui and Oahu must have a negative Nucleic Acid Amplification result from an approved testing site that was taken within 72 hours of the final leg of the trip. Those without a test or with pending test results must quarantine, and test results will not be accepted once the traveler is in Hawaii. The results must either be uploaded online into a mandatory health form or travelers can bring a hard copy when boarding their flight.

In addition to the pre-travel test for trans-Pacific passengers, some counties mandate a second test. The county of Hawaii is randomly testing at least 25 percent of arriving passengers at the airport at no charge. Maui and Kauai counties are requesting another free voluntary test 72 hours after arrival.

Those who were fully vaccinated in the state of Hawaii at least two weeks prior may travel inter-county without pretesting or quarantine. For others, however, there are also testing requirements in some areas for traveling from one county to another. People entering Hawaii County can either have a test 72 hours before arrival, or be tested after entering the county and quarantine until a negative result is received. Visitors to Maui County must have a test 72 hours before arrival and if unvaccinated, take a free rapid coronavirus test upon arrival at Kahului Airport. Alternatively, they may quarantine for 10 days. Visitors to Kauai County may avoid a 10-day quarantine with a pretest, but those who arrive with a pretest approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration but not by the state of Hawaii can participate in a “resort bubble” policy that allows travelers at certain hotels to move about the grounds, and then take a virus test on the third day. If the test is negative, the visitor is released from quarantine. There is no inter-island test or quarantine required for Honolulu County.

There are no statewide restrictions in Idaho, but the state recommends following C.D.C. guidelines for isolating after travel.

There are no statewide restrictions in Illinois. However, under an emergency travel order, Chicago has implemented a two-tier color-coded travel system . Domestic travelers who are more than two weeks out from being fully vaccinated are exempt, as are those who tested positive for the virus in the past 90 days, but are beyond their 10-day isolation period and asymptomatic.

Those from the “yellow” areas may enter without quarantine or testing. They include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Those travelers from other areas fall under an “orange” advisory, meaning they are asked to avoid traveling into the city unless they are asymptomatic and two weeks out from their final Covid-19 vaccine. Others who visit must either quarantine for 10 days (or the duration of their time in Chicago, whichever is shorter) or have a negative result from a virus test taken in the 72 hours before their arrival. These higher risk areas are: Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Washington and West Virginia.

People should travel with a copy of their vaccination certificate or if coming from an orange state, a copy of their coronavirus test result. The list is updated every other Tuesday, with the next update expected on May 18.

There are no statewide restrictions in Indiana.

There are no statewide restrictions in Iowa. Visitors are advised to follow C.D.C. guidance .

A quarantine requirement applies to residents and visitors who traveled on or after May 6 to certain counties in Colorado, on or after April 22 to Minnesota, on or after April 8 to Pennsylvania, between April 8 and April 22 to Connecticut, on or after March 26 to Delaware, Michigan or Rhode Island, and on or after March 12 to New Jersey or New York. It also applies to those who participated in any out-of-state gathering that included 500 people or more where individuals did not wear masks and socially distance by six feet, and to those who were on a cruise or traveled to some international destinations. In some cases, the quarantine period is shorter for those with no symptoms who on the sixth day get a PCR test that comes back negative. They can leave quarantine on the eighth day. Those with no symptoms who opt not to have a coronavirus test can leave on 11th day. States with a diagnosed virus rate three times that of Kansas may be added to a quarantine list. Local health departments may have other restrictions.

There are no statewide restrictions in Kentucky. Visitors are advised to follow C.D.C. guidance , including avoiding nonessential travel until fully vaccinated.

There are no statewide restrictions in Louisiana.

There are no statewide restrictions in Maine.

There are no statewide restrictions in Maryland.

Massachusetts

Those entering the state, including returning residents, are advised to quarantine for 10 days unless they had a negative Covid-19 test in the previous 72 hours. Tests can be taken in Massachusetts but people are asked to quarantine until they receive a negative result.

Those who were fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior and are asymptomatic, and those who are recovered but who previously tested positive for the virus more than 10 days but less than 90 days before arrival do not need to obtain a negative pretest nor quarantine. Testing for children 10 years and younger who are traveling with an adult from their household is not necessary, though they should follow the quarantine advisory for the adult they accompanied.

There are no statewide restrictions in Michigan.

There are no statewide restrictions in Minnesota. Visitors are advised to follow C.D.C. guidance .

Mississippi

There are no statewide restrictions in Mississippi.

There are no statewide restrictions in Missouri.

There are no statewide restrictions in Montana.

There are no statewide restrictions in Nebraska for domestic travelers. Those arriving from international destinations are required to follow C.D.C. recommendations.

There are no statewide restrictions in Nevada.

New Hampshire

There are no statewide restrictions in New Hampshire for domestic travelers, although the state recommends people follow C.D.C. recommendations .

A 10-day self-quarantine is in effect for travelers or residents coming from an international destination or travel on a cruise ship. Alternatively, they can get a molecular test for Covid-19 on day six or day seven and if it’s negative, leave quarantine on their eighth day after travel. No quarantine requirement is in effect for those who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus and at least 14 days have passed since their second dose, or for those who had a positive result to a PCR or antigen test for the virus in the previous 90 days, but are no longer ill.

Nonessential travel by those who aren’t immunized against Covid-19 is discouraged. Unvaccinated travelers and residents returning after 24 hours or more in any place other than New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware are asked to follow C.D.C. guidance. They are also asked to complete an online survey providing details about where they have been and where they plan to stay.

Those who have been vaccinated and people who tested positive for the coronavirus in the previous three months and recovered do not need to quarantine or be tested again as long as they don’t have symptoms.

People arriving in New Mexico from a high risk state or territory, which is any place other than Hawaii, are advised to self-quarantine for 10 days or the duration of their trip, whichever is shorter, and be tested for the virus at their earliest convenience. Nonessential travel should be avoided.

Asymptomatic domestic travelers may enter New York without mandatory testing or quarantine. However, other than those who are fully vaccinated, or who recovered from Covid-19 in the previous three months, people are asked to voluntarily follow C.D.C. recommendations . Those arriving from international destinations must follow C.D.C. requirements for testing and quarantine.

All travelers entering New York after 24 hours away must complete a traveler health form unless they are arriving from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania or Vermont.

North Carolina

There are no statewide restrictions in North Carolina.

North Dakota

There are no statewide restrictions in North Dakota. However, the state recommends following C.D.C. guidance .

There are no statewide travel restrictions in Ohio.

There are no statewide restrictions in Oklahoma.

Oregon is urging visitors and returning residents to self-quarantine for 14 days . An exemption exists for those who are asymptomatic and at least 14 days from having been fully vaccinated. Oregonians are discouraged from traveling for nonessential reasons.

Pennsylvania

There are no statewide restrictions in Pennsylvania.

Puerto Rico

Visitors need to present a negative molecular test taken within 72 hours before arrival. Those awaiting test results, those arriving without a test and those arriving with symptoms must quarantine for 14 days or until a negative result is provided to the Puerto Rico Health Department. An online travel declaration form must also be completed.

Rhode Island

Anyone visiting from a hot spot or an international destination must complete a certificate of compliance . Those arriving from a high risk state need to quarantine for 10 days or provide proof of a negative result from a test taken after arrival or in the 72 hours before arrival. People who receive a negative test during their quarantine can stop, although the state recommends the full duration.

The high risk areas are: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.

Travelers coming from an international destination must quarantine for 10 days, though a negative result from a test taken at least five days after arrival will allow that to be shortened to seven days.

Both domestic and international travelers who tested positive for the virus in the previous 90 days and are fully recovered do not need to retest or quarantine. Similarly, those who were vaccinated at least two weeks before arrival and have no virus symptoms do not need to quarantine.

South Carolina

There are no statewide restrictions in South Carolina, however those returning from travel in the previous 14 days are asked to stay home as much as possible.

South Dakota

There are no statewide restrictions in South Dakota. Some routes entering tribal lands are closed to the general public.

There are no statewide restrictions in Tennessee.

There are no statewide restrictions in Texas.

There are no statewide restrictions in Utah.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Visitors age 5 and older must have a negative coronavirus test taken within five days of arrival and submit the result through a travel portal to obtain permission to enter the country. People who can show a positive test for antibodies taken within the previous four months may submit those. A travel certification will be sent back, and it and the original test result must be shown upon landing. Those who don’t have an acceptable test result must quarantine for 14 days at their own cost or the duration of their stay, whichever is shorter. They can also get out of quarantine by producing the needed test result.

A C.D.C. rule requires travelers into the United States to show proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight does not apply to people going to or from the U.S. mainland and the U.S. territory.

There is no quarantine for domestic travelers, but people who are unvaccinated and arriving from out-of-state must have a negative PCR test within three days of arrival, while Vermonters who leave the state must get a PCR test within three days of their return. Those who are within 90 days of recovering from the virus are exempt from the testing requirements.

International travelers must follow C.D.C. guidance.

There are no statewide restrictions in Virginia, although nonessential travel is being discouraged.

There are no statewide restrictions in Washington. However, the state recommends following C.D.C. guidance

West Virginia

There are no statewide restrictions in West Virginia.

There are no statewide restrictions in Wisconsin but following C.D.C. recommendations is advised. The state’s Department of Health Services recommends Wisconsinites cancel or postpone all travel, including travel within the state, unless they are fully vaccinated.

There are no statewide restrictions in Wyoming.

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List of Coronavirus-Related Restrictions in Every State

States have ended covid-related restrictions; several now bar vaccine mandates.

Throughout the  coronavirus pandemic , governors and health departments across the country issued orders and recommendations on the status of schools, businesses and public services. 

With the arrival of  COVID-19 vaccines  in late 2020, the closures, capacity limits and large-scale mask orders that marked earlier phases of the pandemic gave way to vaccine and testing mandates and more targeted face-covering rules, which many states extended or reinstated as the delta and omicron variants spread in 2021 and 2022. As those waves receded, pandemic restrictions largely subsided as well. 

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Some states and local governments maintained vaccination or masking orders for public employees and health care workers into 2023, but almost all such mandates had lapsed by May 11 of that year, when the federal government’s  COVID-19 public health emergency ended . Several states have barred or limited mask and vaccine orders and other requirements through legislation or executive action.

Find COVID-19 Vaccines in Your State

AARP's  53 state and territory COVID-19 vaccine guides  can help you find vaccines near you and provide the latest answers to common questions about costs, eligibility and availability.

At the national level, President Joe Biden's  executive order  requiring  health care workers  and federal executive branch employees to be vaccinated expired May 11, 2023. Another federal order that mandated masks on public modes of transportation, including commercial flights, and in transit hubs such as airports and bus and train stations, also ended that day, but it had not been enforced for more than a year due to a court order.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services formally ended vaccine or testing requirements for staff at long-term care facilities that participate in Medicare or Medicaid in August 2023.

There are no longer any states with general mask orders. A small number of state and local governments still require face-covering at certain times (such as respiratory illness season) in some high-risk settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes and shelters. Some states direct health care facilities to follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  guidance on mask use  in medical settings. In most states, private businesses and venues may require masking or proof of vaccination as a condition for entry.

Here’s a look at each state’s vaccine, testing and mask requirements.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  State law bars local governments, schools and businesses from requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination as a condition for admission or to receive goods or services and grants workers broad rights to get religious or medical exemptions to workplace vaccine mandates.

Gov. Kay Ivey (R) issued an order prohibiting any state executive branch agency from penalizing a business or individual for not complying with President Biden’s federal vaccine mandate.

More information: Check the state public health department’s COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R) issued an order in April 2021 banning all executive branch departments from requiring anyone to provide proof of vaccination to travel to or around the state.

More information: Check the state’s COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Laws signed by then-Gov. Doug Ducey (R) in April and May 2022 prohibit state and local government entities from requiring Arizonans to get a COVID-19 vaccine (government-owned or -operated health care institutions are exempt) and bar state officials from requiring COVID-19 vaccines at schools.

Mask regulations:  Ducey signed a measure in April 2022 banning face-covering orders for minors. School districts and local governments cannot require anyone under age 18 to wear a mask without parental consent. He signed legislation the following month prohibiting mask mandates in buildings run by state or local government.

More information: Check the state health department’s COVID-19 page . 

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) signed legislation Sept. 14 barring state and local government bodies from requiring vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition for employment, entry or provision of services. The measure took effect immediately.

Mask regulations:  Then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) signed a bill that bans state and local mask mandates, but it was overturned by a state judge in December 2021.

More information: Check the Arkansas Department of Health's COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A statewide vaccine mandate for health care workers ended in April 2023. A requirement that state employees be vaccinated or undergo regular testing was lifted in September 2022. San Luis Obispo County requires health care workers to get flu shots and be up to date on COVID-19 vaccines during respiratory illness season, defined as Nov. 1 to April 30. 

Mask regulations:  A statewide mask requirement covering health care and long-term care facilities, emergency and homeless shelters, and jails and prisons ended in April 2023.

Several Bay Area and Northern California jurisdictions maintain mask requirements in medical facilities throughout respiratory illness season. Mandates in the city of San Francisco and in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties ended April 30.

More information: Read California’s current safety measures .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  The state Board of Public Health ended a vaccine requirement for health care workers in July 2022. A similar mandate for state employees was repealed the following month.

Mask regulations:  The state dropped its mask mandate for health care facilities in October 2022. A mask requirement for workers at federally regulated long-term care facilities in areas of high COVID-19 transmission lapsed with the end of the public health emergency. Health care workers are directed to follow CDC guidance on face-covering.

More Information: Check the Colorado Department of Health & Public Environment’s  COVID-19 page .

Connecticut

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A vaccine mandate for state employees and staff at schools and childcare facilities ended in April 2022 as most of Gov. Ned Lamont's COVID-related executive orders expired. The state's latest COVID-19 guidance refers people to the CDC's COVID website.

Mask regulations:  A face-covering requirement for health care facilities, long-term care facilities and shelters ended in April 2022.

More information: See Connecticut’s COVID-19 response page .  

Vaccine and testing regulations: Following the end of the federal and state public health emergencies on May 11, 2023, there are no longer vaccination or testing requirements for state employees, according to the Delaware Division of Public Health. Health care and long-term care facilities are encouraged to follow current CDC guidelines for infection control.

Mask regulations:  A mask mandate for K-12 schools and childcare facilities ended March 31, 2022. With the end of the public health emergency, medical and long-term care facilities are no longer under a state mask order and are encouraged to follow the CDC guidance on masking.

More information: Read Delaware’s COVID-19 guidance .  

District of Columbia

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A requirement that District government employees, contractors and interns be fully vaccinated ended April 24, 2023.

Mask regulations:  Face-covering is required in health care facilities when the COVID-19 community level is rated high by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

More information: Read the District’s COVID-19 guidances and resources .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A state law that took effect June 1, 2023, bars businesses, government bodies and educational institutions from requiring COVID-19 vaccination or testing as a condition of employment, entry or provision of services.

Mask regulations:  The same measure bars private and public-sector entities from imposing mask mandates.

More information: Read about Florida’s COVID-19 response .

Vaccine and testing requirements:  Gov. Brian Kemp (R) signed an order in August 2021 that prohibits local governments from mandating COVID-19 restrictions such as vaccination requirements for private businesses. A state law in effect through at least June 30, 2023, bars government entities from requiring vaccination as a condition for employment or receiving public services.

Mask requirements:  Kemp's August 2021 order also allows bars local governments from enforcing mask mandates on private businesses without the business's consent. He signed legislation in March 2022 that allows parents to decide whether their children wear a mask in school, even if the local district implements a mandate. 

An indoor mask mandate enforced in Athens and Clarke County during periods of high COVID-19 transmission expired in full Oct. 6.    

More information: Check the state department of health’s COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Democratic Gov. David Ige’s order that state employees show proof of vaccination or undergo regular testing was lifted March 25, 2022, as were all vaccine, testing and quarantine requirements for travel to Hawaii.

Mask regulations:  Hawaii’s statewide mask mandate, the last in the country, expired March 25, 2022. 

More information: Check the state’s COVID-19 page for updates.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Brad Little (R) signed legislation in April 2023 that prohibits most public and private employers from imposing vaccine mandates on employees. The measure, which took effect immediately, also prohibits government entities, businesses and venues from requiring proof of vaccination as a condition for someone to enter a premises or receive services. 

More information: Check the state’s COVID-19 page for more information.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A requirement that unvaccinated staff at health care and long-term care facilities get tested weekly for COVID-19 was lifted by Gov. J.P. Pritzker (D) in October 2022. 

Mask regulations:  Face-covering is no longer required in health care and long-term care facilities, per Pritzker's October 2022 order. Masks are recommended at facilities in areas of high community spread.

More information: Check the state health department’s COVID-19 page .

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Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) signed legislation in April 2021 banning state and local governments from requiring vaccine passports.

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Vaccine and testing regulations:  A state law enacted in 2021 expands employees’ rights to claim religious or medical exemptions to workplace vaccine mandates. Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) signed legislation in June 2022 barring public and private schools, colleges and universities, and childcare centers from requiring COVID-19 vaccination as a condition for attendance.

Mask regulations:  State law prohibits local governments from ordering businesses to impose mask rules. On May 16, 2022, a federal appeals court panel ruled that Iowa school districts cannot issue mask mandates unless they’re needed to comply with other federal or state laws.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Laura Kelly (D) signed legislation in November 2021 requiring employers that mandate vaccines to allow for a medical or religious exemption.

No current regulations:  There are no state vaccine or mask mandates in force, nor any prohibitions of mandates. 

No current regulations: Then-Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) ended the state’s emergency public health order in March 2022. There are no state vaccine or mask mandates in force, nor any prohibitions of mandates. 

Vaccine and testing regulations:  The state Department of Health of Human Services rescinded a COVID-19 vaccine requirement for health care workers in September 2023.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Employees at health care and residential care facilities operated by the state or local governments must show proof of vaccination. Those who do not are "required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment," as determined by the facility, while on the job, under an April 18, 2023, health department order.

Massachusetts

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Long-term care providers and home care workers were required to be vaccinated by Oct. 31, 2021. A vaccine mandate for state government employees was lifted May 11, 2023, in conjunction with the end of the state and federal public health emergencies, as was a similar rule for Boston city employees.

Mask regulations:  Mask mandates covering long-term care facilities, medical facilities, prisons and shelters ended May 11, 2023. Then-Gov. Charlie Baker (R) lifted a statewide mask mandate for K-12 public schools on Feb. 28, 2022.

More information: Read Massachusetts’ COVID-19 updates .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A state budget law enacted in September 2021 prohibits publicly funded agencies from requiring employees or customers to be vaccinated.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A requirement that state employees get vaccinated or submit to regular testing expired in May 2022.

More information: See Minnesota's  COVID-19 response page .

Mississippi

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Tate Reeves signed legislation in April 2022 that bars state agencies and local governments from imposing COVID-19 vaccine requirements on employees or people seeking services.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Mike Parson (R) issued an order that prohibits state agencies from compelling an individual to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or penalizing a business for noncompliance with federal vaccine mandates. State law prohibits local governments from requiring residents to show proof of vaccination to access public services.

More information:  Check the state health department’s COVID-19 page . 

Vaccine and testing regulations:  In April 2021, Gov. Greg Gianforte (R) signed an executive order prohibiting vaccine passports in Montana. Employers, including private companies, are barred by state law from discriminating based on vaccination status.

Mask regulations:  State law restricts local jurisdictions’ authority to impose mask orders, and Gianforte announced an emergency rule in August 2021 directing schools to allow parents and students to opt out of face-covering mandates.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Legislation signed by then-Gov. Pete Ricketts (R) in February 2022 requires employers to allow for exemptions from workplace vaccine mandates for medical or religious reasons.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A requirement that state employees who aren’t fully vaccinated submit to weekly testing was lifted in March 2022.

New Hampshire

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Most state and local government agencies are barred from imposing workplace vaccine requirements. The prohibition does not apply to government-run medical facilities, including nursing homes, but those facilities must grant employee requests for exemptions on medical or religious grounds under legislation signed in June 2022 by Gov. Chris Sununu.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Phil Murphy issued an executive order in June 2023 ending the state's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for workers in health care settings, including long-term care facilities. Murphy had previously lifted a testing requirement for health care staff and testing and vaccine mandates for employees at congregate living facilities such as group homes and prisons.

Mask regulations:  A mask mandate for health care facilities ended in April 2023.

More information: Read New Jersey’s COVID-19 information hub .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  With the end of the state public health emergency on March 31, 2023, and of the federal emergency the following May, there are no vaccine or testing requirements in place. 

Mask regulations:  The state no longer requires masking in hospitals, long-term care facilities and other congregate settings. 

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A statewide COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers was formally lifted in October. A requirement that unvaccinated state employees submit to regular COVID-19 testing ended in June 2022. 

On Feb. 10, 2023, New York City dropped a requirement that current and prospective municipal workers show proof of vaccination. A similar mandate for private-sector workers was lifted the previous November.

Mask regulations:  A state mask mandate for hospitals, nursing homes and other health care settings was rescinded in February 2023. Face-covering is required for staff and visitors at public hospitals, health centers and nursing homes in New York City.

More information:  Read about New York's COVID-19 response and resources .

North Carolina

Vaccine and testing regulations:  There are no longer any vaccine or testing requirements for state employees or health care workers.

Mask regulations:  Health care and long-term care facilities follow the CDC guidance on masking, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

More information:  See the state health department’s COVID-19 guidance .

North Dakota

Vaccine and testing regulations:  State and local governments are barred from requiring employees to be vaccinated. Private employers with vaccine mandates must allow exemptions on the basis of an employee’s medical condition; a recent COVID-19 infection; religious, philosophical or moral objections to vaccination; or agreement to submit to periodic testing. Businesses are prohibited from requiring documentation of a customer’s vaccination status. 

No current regulations:  Gov. Mike DeWine (R) ended the state’s public health emergency in June 2021. There are no state vaccine or mask mandates in force, nor any prohibitions of mandates. 

More information:  Check the state health department’s  COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) signed an order that prohibits state agencies from requiring a visitor to show proof of vaccination to enter public buildings. The order exempts agencies that conduct medical activities requiring patient interaction.

Vaccine and testing regulations: A vaccine requirement for health care workers ended May 11, 2023. A similar order covering school staff expired the following month. A vaccine mandate for state government employees was lifted April 1, 2022.

Mask regulations:  A statewide indoor mask mandate expired March 12, 2022. A face-covering requirement for workers in health care settings ended April 3, 2023.

Pennsylvania

Vaccine and testing regulations:  State health care employees and workers in high-risk congregate-care facilities were required to be vaccinated by Sept. 7, 2021, or undergo regular testing. New hires in such facilities must be vaccinated.

Philadelphia ended vaccine requirements for city employees and health care workers in May 2023. Allegheny County, which includes Pittsburgh, rescinded a vaccine mandate for county employees the same month.

More information: Visit the state department of health’s COVID-19 page .

Puerto Rico

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Pedro Pierluisi (D) issued an executive order in March 2022 lifting workplace vaccine and booster mandates except for those necessary to comply with federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rules.

Mask regulations:  Pierluisi ended Puerto Rico’s general indoor mask order in March 2022 and lifted the mandate for schools and childcare centers the following September. Face-covering requirements in medical and long-term care facilities were lifted May 11, 2023.

More information:  Check the Puerto Rico health department’s  COVID-19 guidelines and protocols (Spanish).

Rhode Island

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Health care workers were required to be vaccinated by Oct. 1, 2021, unless they were medically exempt.

Mask regulations:  Face-covering is required for health care workers who are not up to date with their vaccines when weekly COVID-19 community levels in their area exceed 50 cases per 100,000 people (check the Rhode Island Department of Health’s  COVID-19 data hub ). 

More information:  See the health department’s  COVID-19 information page .

South Carolina

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Henry McMaster (R) signed legislation in April 2022 that bars the state, local governments and school districts from requiring COVID-19 vaccination as a condition for employment or attendance and prohibits places of public accommodation such as hospitals, restaurants, theaters and stores from denying service based on vaccination status. The measure took effect immediately and will remain in force through at least the end of 2023.

Mask regulations:  There is no statewide requirement, and McMaster issued an executive order in May 2021 invalidating local mask orders in effect at the time. A local mandate covering indoor public spaces in in unincorporated parts of Richland County expired in May 2022.

South Dakota

Vaccine and testing regulations:  Gov. Kristi Noem (R) issued an executive order in April 2021 barring state and local governments from issuing or requiring the use of vaccine passports.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  State law prohibits private employers from compelling workers to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and from taking “adverse action” or discriminating against those to object to getting vaccinated.

Mask regulations:  Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed legislation in November 2021 restricting local governments’ authority to institute face-covering orders.

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A state law that took effect Sept. 1, 2023, prohibits state and local government bodies from imposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates. The measure does not cover private businesses. 

Mask regulations:  The 2023 law also bars most government entities from mandating mask use to prevent the spread of COVID-19. There are exceptions for health care, corrections and juvenile justice centers and residential facilities for people with intellectual or development disabilities.  

Vaccine or testing regulations:  State agencies and public universities are prohibited from requiring proof of vaccination. Private employers with workplace vaccine requirements must allow exemptions for medical reasons, prior COVID-19 infection, or religious or personal beliefs.

Vaccine or testing regulations:  A requirement that state employees get vaccinated or submit to weekly testing was lifted in April 2022.

Vaccine or testing regulations:  Upon taking office in January 2022, Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) rescinded his predecessor’s executive order mandating vaccination for state employees.

Mask regulations:  State legislation adopted in February 2022 effectively bars school mask mandates by allowing parents to decide whether or not their children wear masks in public schools and early childhood programs. 

Vaccine and testing regulations:  A vaccine requirement covering employees at most state agencies was rescinded May 11. A similar order for health care and education workers expired Oct. 31, 2022, with the end of the state's COVID-19 emergency order.

Mask regulations:  A general indoor mask mandate was lifted March 12, 2022. A mask order covering health care, long-term care and correctional facilities was lifted April 3, 2023.

West Virginia

Vaccine and testing regulations:  State law prohibits government entities from requiring proof of vaccination as a condition for entering their premises or utilizing services. Employers with workplace vaccine mandates are required to except employees with valid medical or religious exemptions.

More information:  Check the state health department’s  COVID-19 page .

Vaccine and testing regulations: Gov. Mark Gordon (R) issued a directive in May 2021 that prohibits state bodies from requiring proof of vaccination to access facilities and services and encouraging, but not requiring, local governments and private business to do the same.

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Executive Order on Promoting COVID- ⁠ 19 Safety in Domestic and International   Travel

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows: 

Section 1.  Policy.  Science-based public health measures are critical to preventing the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by travelers within the United States and those who enter the country from abroad.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Surgeon General, and the National Institutes of Health have concluded that mask-wearing, physical distancing, appropriate ventilation, and timely testing can mitigate the risk of travelers spreading COVID-19.  Accordingly, to save lives and allow all Americans, including the millions of people employed in the transportation industry, to travel and work safely, it is the policy of my Administration to implement these public health measures consistent with CDC guidelines on public modes of transportation and at ports of entry to the United States.   

Sec. 2.  Immediate Action to Require Mask-Wearing on Certain Domestic Modes of Transportation.

(a)  Mask Requirement.   The Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)), the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard), and the heads of any other executive departments and agencies (agencies) that have relevant regulatory authority (heads of agencies) shall immediately take action, to the extent appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to require masks to be worn in compliance with CDC guidelines in or on: 

(i)    airports; 

(ii)   commercial aircraft; 

(iii)  trains; 

(iv)   public maritime vessels, including ferries; 

(v)    intercity bus services; and

(vi)   all forms of public transportation as defined in section 5302 of title 49, United States Code.

(b)  Consultation.   In implementing this section, the heads of agencies shall consult, as appropriate, with interested parties, including State, local, Tribal, and territorial officials; industry and union representatives from the transportation sector; and consumer representatives.

(c)  Exceptions.   The heads of agencies may make categorical or case-by-case exceptions to policies developed under this section, consistent with applicable law, to the extent that doing so is necessary or required by law.  If the heads of agencies do make exceptions, they shall require alternative and appropriate safeguards, and shall document all exceptions in writing.

(d)  Preemption.  To the extent permitted by applicable law, the heads of agencies shall ensure that any action taken to implement this section does not preempt State, local, Tribal, and territorial laws or rules imposing public health measures that are more protective of public health than those required by the heads of agencies. 

(e)  Coordination.  The Coordinator of the COVID-19 Response and Counselor to the President (COVID-19 Response Coordinator) shall coordinate the implementation of this section.  The heads of agencies shall update the COVID-19 Response Coordinator on their progress in implementing this section, including any categorical exceptions established under subsection (c) of this section, within 7 days of the date of this order and regularly thereafter.  The heads of agencies are encouraged to bring to the attention of the COVID-19 Response Coordinator any questions regarding the scope or implementation of this section.

Sec. 3.  Action to Implement Additional Public Health Measures for Domestic Travel. 

(a)  Recommendations.   The Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA and the Commandant of the Coast Guard), in consultation with the Director of CDC, shall promptly provide to the COVID-19 Response Coordinator recommendations concerning how their respective agencies may impose additional public health measures for domestic travel.

(b)  Consultation.   In implementing this section, the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall engage with interested parties, including State, local, Tribal, and territorial officials; industry and union representatives from the transportation sector; and consumer representatives.  

Sec. 4.  Support for State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Authorities.  The COVID-19 Response Coordinator, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation and the heads of any other relevant agencies, shall promptly identify and inform agencies of options to incentivize, support, and encourage widespread mask-wearing and physical distancing on public modes of transportation, consistent with CDC guidelines and applicable law.

Sec. 5.  International Travel. 

(a)  Policy.   It is the policy of my Administration that, to the extent feasible, travelers seeking to enter the United States from a foreign country shall be: 

(i)   required to produce proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test prior to entry; and 

(ii)  required to comply with other applicable CDC guidelines concerning international travel, including recommended periods of self-quarantine or self-isolation after entry into the United States.

(b)  Air Travel.  

(i)    The Secretary of HHS, including through the Director of CDC, and in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), shall, within 14 days of the date of this order, assess the CDC order of January 12, 2021, regarding the requirement of a negative COVID-19 test result for airline passengers traveling into the United States, in light of subsection (a) of this section.  Based on such assessment, the Secretary of HHS and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take any further appropriate regulatory action, to the extent feasible and consistent with CDC guidelines and applicable law.  Such assessment and regulatory action shall include consideration of: 

(A)  the timing and types of COVID-19 tests that should satisfy the negative test requirement, including consideration of additional testing immediately prior to departure; (B)  the proof of test results that travelers should be required to provide; (C)  the feasibility of implementing alternative and sufficiently protective public health measures, such as testing, self-quarantine, and self-isolation on arrival, for travelers entering the United States from countries where COVID-19 tests are inaccessible, particularly where such inaccessibility of tests would affect the ability of United States citizens and lawful permanent residents to return to the United States; and (D)  measures to prevent fraud.

(ii)   The Secretary of HHS, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA) and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), shall promptly provide to the President, through the COVID-19 Response Coordinator, a plan for how the Secretary and other Federal Government actors could implement the policy stated in subsection (a) of this section with respect to CDC-recommended periods of self-quarantine or self-isolation after a flight to the United States from a foreign country, as he deems appropriate and consistent with applicable law.  The plan shall identify agencies’ tools and mechanisms to assist travelers in complying with such policy.

(iii)  The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of HHS (including through the Director of CDC), the Secretary of Transportation (including through the Administrator of the FAA), and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall seek to consult with foreign governments, the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Air Transport Association, and any other relevant stakeholders to establish guidelines for public health measures associated with safe international travel, including on aircraft and at ports of entry.  Any such guidelines should address quarantine, testing, COVID-19 vaccination, follow-up testing and symptom-monitoring, air filtration requirements, environmental decontamination standards, and contact tracing.  

(c)  Land Travel.  The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of HHS, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of CDC, shall immediately commence diplomatic outreach to the governments of Canada and Mexico regarding public health protocols for land ports of entry.  Based on this diplomatic engagement, within 14 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of HHS (including through the Director of CDC), the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the President a plan to implement appropriate public health measures at land ports of entry.  The plan should implement CDC guidelines, consistent with applicable law, and take into account the operational considerations relevant to the different populations who enter the United States by land.

(d)  Sea Travel.  The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commandant of the Coast Guard and in consultation with the Secretary of HHS and the Director of CDC, shall, within 14 days of the date of this order, submit to the President a plan to implement appropriate public health measures at sea ports.  The plan should implement CDC guidelines, consistent with applicable law, and take into account operational considerations.  

(e)  International Certificates of Vaccination or Prophylaxis.  Consistent with applicable law, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of HHS, and the Secretary of Homeland Security (including through the Administrator of the TSA), in coordination with any relevant international organizations, shall assess the feasibility of linking COVID-19 vaccination to International Certificates of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) and producing electronic versions of ICVPs.  

(f)  Coordination.  The COVID-19 Response Coordinator, in consultation with the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, shall coordinate the implementation of this section.  The Secretary of State, the Secretary of HHS, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall update the COVID-19 Response Coordinator on their progress in implementing this section within 7 days of the date of this order and regularly thereafter.  The heads of all agencies are encouraged to bring to the attention of the COVID-19 Response Coordinator any questions regarding the scope or implementation of this section.

Sec. 6.  General Provisions.   (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE, January 21, 2021.

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Costa Rica Travel Restrictions: What Travelers Need To Know

Updated September 27, 2021

Is Costa Rica open for travel? Yes! But there are some Costa Rica travel restrictions that travelers need to know about before they book their trip. 

Browse through this guide to learn what travelers need to provide before they travel, and what Costa Rica is like right now. Though there are a few hurdles travelers need to jump, it’s still definitely possible to have an incredible Costa Rica trip. 

Is It Safe To Travel To Costa Rica Right Now?

As coronavirus travel restrictions go, Costa Rica is fairly easy to visit. But is Costa Rica safe right now? 

Like most places, traveling to Costa Rica comes with an elevated risk because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Delta variant arrived in Costa Rica this summer, which caused a surge of cases across the country. 

Cases today are still fairly high. The CDC gives Costa Rica a Level 4 rating , their highest categorization, and recommends avoiding travel — especially if you’re unvaccinated. 

But it is still possible to travel to Costa Rica. The country was one of the first to open to Americans last year, and it offers plenty of outdoor activities — beaches, mountains, national parks, and more — for anyone looking to avoid crowds. 

So what do travelers need to know about traveling to Costa Rica? What kind of covid travel restrictions does the country have in place, and what is life like in Costa Rica right now?

Costa Rica Travel Restrictions To Know Before Your Arrival

All travelers to Costa Rica must fill out the country’s Health Pass at least 72 hours before travel. Once you’ve done this, you’ll receive a QR code that you can present once you arrive. 

After that, further Costa Rica travel restrictions depend on whether or not you’re vaccinated.

Vaccinated Americans just need to provide their CDC vaccination card. 

Unvaccinated Americans , however, must present proof of a medical insurance policy that can cover any costs related to the coronavirus. This requirement is for unvaccinated travelers only — Costa Rica no longer requires vaccinated travelers to present proof of medical insurance. 

That said, Costa Rica has fairly lax travel restrictions compared to other destinations. At this time, travelers do not need to present a negative test or quarantine. So what are things like in Costa Rica right now? Has the country largely reopened? 

What To Expect On A Trip To Costa Rica

All in all, Costa Rica has largely reopened. However, the country does have a number of pandemic policies in place in an effort to keep everyone safe and cases low. 

Namely, many places in Costa Rica are operating on restricted hours: 

• Beaches are open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m
• National parks are open from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Most businesses are open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• The country also has a nightly curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. 

Bars in Costa Rica are open but operate at a limited capacity. Same with hotels. And concerts, nightclubs, and other large gatherings are currently banned, 

In addition, Costa Rica has also placed limits on drivers. Drivers can only use their cars on certain days, which depends on their vehicle plates. However, this restriction does not extend to taxis or rental cars. 

Travelers should be prepared to follow other rules about masking and social distancing. On public transit and in enclosed indoor spaces, for example, masks are required.  

Why Travel To Costa Rica Right Now

As long as travelers are willing to navigate these Costa Rica travel restrictions, it’s entirely possible to have an incredible trip. Costa Rica has always been a fantastic destination, but it’s an especially wonderful place to visit right now. 

Research suggests that the risk of the coronavirus is lower outside, and Costa Rica offers plenty of fresh-air activities. Top places to visit in Costa Rica include the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Playa Punta Uva, and the Arenal Volcano National Park — all spectacular destinations that are outdoors. 

In places like these, travelers can indulge in some of the best things to do in Costa Rica, from relaxing on a beach to hiking through a forest, to scuba diving, birdwatching, and more. 

Although the city of San Jose is plenty cool — and a great place to stay in Costa Rica — most travelers pass through the city on their way to other destinations. 

So if you’re nervous about being in an urban environment, worry not! Costa Rica is more about nature than cities, and travelers will find lots to explore in the country’s wide-open spaces. 

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The Most Glamorous City in the US

W e recently compiled a report on the 26 Most Glamorous Cities in the US and in this article, we will look at the most glamorous city in the US.

Overview of the Tourism and Travel Sector

The pent-up demand for tourism and travel after the uplifting of the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic can be seen exhibited in the tourism trends across the globe. Data from Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE: MA ) shows that global leisure travel increased by around 31% in March 2023 as compared to its pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This translates to a 25% year-over-year growth between 2022 and 2023. Leisure and business travel have been on the path to recovery since 2022, increasing at the same rate. The sectors experienced a 33% increase in March 2023 as compared to its pre-pandemic levels in March 2019, and a year-over-year-to-date growth rate of 42% between 2022 and 2023. Trends across the tourism and travel sector show that travelers are keen to travel and experience the world, with total spending on experiences increasing by 65% in March 2023 as compared to its pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Similarly, the spending on things during traveling also increased by 12% between the same time period.

A report released by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) titled World Tourism Barometer January 2024 shows that international tourism has recovered nearly 88% of its pre-pandemic demand. The sector is anticipated to catch up to its pre-pandemic demand in 2024. Estimates show that around 1.3 billion international tourists were recorded across the globe in 2023. This number shows a growth of 34% over 2022. The UNWTO Tourism Confidence Index survey further highlights the positive trajectory for international travel, with 67% tourism professionals expressing belief in “better or much better prospects” in 2024 as compared to 2023. The tourism direct gross domestic product (TDGDP) as of 2023 stands at $3.3 trillion, which translates to 3% of the global GDP according to preliminary tourism estimates. These levels are the same as pre-pandemic levels in 2019, primarily fueled by recovering international and domestic levels. You can also look at 30 Most Visited Cities in the US by Foreigners for further insights.

Travel and Tourism in the USA

The tourism and travel sector in the USA reflects global trends. According to estimates by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, which is an official website of the US government, the travel and tourism industry as a whole grew by 53.6% in 2021, and 21.0% in 2022. When computed by real gross domestic product (GDP), the broader economy grew by 5.8% in 2021 and 1.9% in 2022. According to our report on the 30 Most Visited Cities by American Tourists , New York’s New York City, California’s San Jose, Georgia’s Atlanta, and California’s Los Angeles were the most popular tourist destinations across the country. These trends are primarily driven by the glitz and glamor of these cities, taking the lead in fashion, fine food, luxury, and tourist attractions.

Some of the most prominent luxury companies boosting tourism include Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H ) and Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR ). On June 1, Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) announced the debut of the Park Hyatt brand into Hunan, central China. The Park Hyatt Changsha will take up the uppermost floors of the International Finance Square (IFS), which is a 1,000-foot-tall skyscraper and the tallest building in the Hunan province. Guests at the Park Hyatt Changsha will thus have unhindered access to the largest commercial complex in the city, buzzing with high-end fashion.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR) is another prominent name in the luxury hospitality industry. On June 3, the hotel company announced plans to take three luxury properties in the United States under the umbrella of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. These three iconic properties include Turtle Bay Resort, The Resort at Pelican Hill, and a luxury Midtown hotel located in New York City. The Turtle Bay Resort is located on the North Shore of O’ahu, Hawai’i, and is expected to become a part of The Ritz-Carlton brand portfolio this summer. The Resort at Pelican Hill is a 504-acre luxury resort located in Newport Beach, California, and is set to join the luxury portfolio by Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR) on July 1.

Lastly, New York City’s luxury hotel stands at the heart of Midtown Manhattan, with the biggest tourist attractions including Times Square, Fifth Avenue, The Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and The Museum of Modern Art nearby. It is set to join the Marriott Bonvoy on June 5. Here is what Leeny Oberg, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development, Marriott International, had to say about the development:

“In the last few weeks, we finalized deals for conversions of three incredible properties, adding over 1,000 rooms to our system and continuing to underscore our commitment to luxury. We are sought out by owners because of the depth and breadth of our brand portfolio and the power of our platform to drive results. Today, the company has an industry-leading global luxury distribution of over 510 open hotels with another 234 luxury hotels in the signed pipeline. We look forward to strengthening our leadership in this important customer segment as we continue to work with owners to maximize the potential of their projects.”

Now that we have taken an overview of the travel and tourism sector, let’s look at the most glamorous city in the US. You can also look at 30 Most Fun Cities in the US in 2024 and 30 Most Interesting Cities in America .

Our Methodology

In order to compile a list of the 26 most glamorous cities in the US, we used a consensus approach and a visitor survey through Reddit. Firstly, we consulted ten online travel expert resources to compile a list of the 26 most glamorous cities in the US. Next, we looked at ten Reddit threads that asked commenters to mention the most glamorous US cities they had visited in the United States. We only chose threads that had more than 50 comments and studied more than 500 comments to shortlist the most glamorous cities in the United States that had the most recommendations by Reddit users. We then counted the number of upvotes on each comment and chose the top 26 cities with the most number of upvotes. The 26 most glamorous cities in the US are arranged in ascending order of their number of upvotes on Reddit.

Note: This list is not exhaustive and does not reflect our opinion. The ranking is solely based on the opinions of mass consumers on Reddit.

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1. New York City, New York

Number of Reddit Upvotes: 786

New York City ranks first on our list of the 26 most glamorous cities in the US. Located in New York state, New York City was the capital of America between 1785 and 1790. The city sits at the juncture of the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean, and comprises five boroughs. At the city’s heart stands the densely populated borough of Manhattan, also known as one of the most prominent financial, cultural, and commercial centers in the world. Also known as The Big Apple, New York City ranks as one of the most popular cities across the globe. It is the melting pot of America, housing people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city include Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Statue of Liberty, the Museum of Modern Art, and several others.

According to our methodology, New York City is the most glamorous city in the US. To look at more glamorous cities in the country, you can check out our detailed report on 26 Most Glamorous Cities in the US .

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published on Insider Monkey .

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Can felony convictions hinder Trump’s international travel? Here’s what we know

Many countries have rules barring people convicted of felonies from entering. However, those rules vary widely and many leave room for exemptions.

Former President Donald Trump’s recent conviction on felony charges raised a host of other questions.

Can Trump still run for president? Yes,  he can . Can he vote in Florida? It’s  likely .

But the answer to another question isn’t as clear: How will Trump’s felony conviction affect his ability to travel internationally? Social media  users   claimed  there were dozens of  countries  that Trump can no longer enter because of his conviction.

Many countries have rules barring people convicted of felonies from entering. However, those rules vary widely and many leave room for exemptions. If Trump is again elected president and visits a country on official business, he would likely be granted entry, but it’s not guaranteed, experts said.

A Manhattan jury on May 30 found Trump guilty of all  34 counts  of falsifying business records in an alleged scheme to cover up a hush money payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. Trump is scheduled to be sentenced July 11. Judge Juan Merchan has the power to impose travel restrictions at that time, limiting Trump’s travel outside the U.S.

Countries have discretion about when and how to admit foreigners

Many countries singled out in the social media posts about Trump limit entry for foreigners who have been convicted of felonies. Factors considered in whether to grant entry include the type of crime, when it occurred and the sentence length.

For example, Australia’s visitor travel requirements  stipulate  that “you must not have any criminal convictions for which the sentences total 12 months or more, whether or not you have served the sentences.” Because Trump hasn’t been sentenced, it’s unclear whether whatever sentence he receives would fall into this category. Many  legal  experts  have said they doubt Trump will be sentenced to prison.

Israel  and the  United Kingdom  also can bar people convicted of felonies from visiting. The U.K. restrictions factor in the sentence length and conviction timing.

It’s unclear whether Trump’s felony conviction will affect his ability to travel to Trump International Golf Links in Scotland, which is part of the United Kingdom. When asked about how a potential visit from Trump may be handled, the U.K.’s Home Office said it does not comment on individual cases.

Harold Hongju Koh, a Yale University international law professor, said Trump’s travel to other countries as a former, and potentially future, head of state “would depend on how that country chooses to administer its entry laws.”

Even sitting heads of state, he said, don’t have “an affirmative right that entitles” them to enter a country, although Trump would have diplomatic immunity in other countries if he’s reelected.

“China, where President Xi Jinping has broad executive authority, could decide to admit him between now and November as a former U.S. president who also could be a future U.S. president,” Koh said. “But that would be based on a discretionary act of the Chinese executive under Chinese law, not on any general rule of international law.”

Evelyn Cruz, an Arizona State University law professor who directs the university’s immigration clinic, said all countries have admission rules and it’s possible Trump might need a waiver for any country he seeks to visit.

“Whether he needs to apply ahead or at the entry point will depend on the country’s policies,” Cruz said. If Trump were to be reelected in November, “he would be traveling under the head of state diplomatic immunity, and therefore, the countries would let him in.”

She noted the U.S. has a similar diplomatic policy and has let in people accused or convicted of war crimes to attend United Nations gatherings.

Diplomatic immunity holds that certain government officials are not subject to jurisdiction of local courts and other authorities for their official duties, a 2018  U.S. State Department guide  said. In the U.S., a head of state automatically qualifies for an  A1 visa , regardless of the visit’s purpose.

Similar travel questions  arose  when former President George W. Bush ran for president in 2000. One news report  said  he was granted special permission to enter Canada because he acknowledged a 1976 misdemeanor DUI charge, for which he had pleaded guilty and paid a fine. A Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson told PolitiFact the agency doesn’t comment on individual cases.

To examine the travel challenges Trump might face, we also examined how the U.S.’ northern and southern neighbors handle convicted felons entering their countries.

Canada’s rules about admission for people convicted of felonies

Under  Canadian law , a visitor with a criminal conviction can be barred from entering the country, a U.S. State Department  webpage said .

Mario Bellissimo, a Canadian immigration lawyer, said Trump could be denied entry because of his conviction.

“He is inadmissible to Canada and would be eligible (to apply for a certificate of) rehabilitation five years after the completion of any sentence,” Bellissimo said.

For certificates of rehabilitation, an immigration officer decides if a foreign national poses a risk of reoffending, taking into account factors related to the crime and what the offender has done since to show he or she is not a risk, Bellissimo said.

However, there are exceptions to these procedures, Bellissimo said.  Section 24  of  Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act affords immigration officers the leeway to grant a temporary resident permit.

“Someone like a former president or a Republican (presidential) nominee that might be coming here for official duties or official business, that would be a very strong factor that would weigh in his favor for entry to Canada,” he said.

Luke Reimer, a Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson, said admission to Canada is decided case by case based on the information available at the time of entry about whether travelers meet entry requirements.

He said several factors determine whether a person can enter, including criminal history.

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act lists  multiple reasons  a person can be found inadmissible to Canada, including being convicted outside Canada of a crime that would be an indictable offense in Canada. Trump’s conviction on falsifying business records is also a  crime in Canada .

Mexico’s rules about admitting people convicted of felonies

Mexican law also allows immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry if they were charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere, the U.S. State Department  said on its website .

A  frequently asked questions page  from the Mexican Consulate in Miami about forms visitors to Mexico must fill out notes that a person with a criminal record could be denied entry for serious crimes.

“There is no way to know about your case before you travel,” the page said, recommending that travelers contact authorities in their own country to find out if they have shared information with other countries.

An Embassy of Mexico in Canada  webpage  about visiting Mexico with a criminal record says people could be denied entry for serious crimes. The crimes listed include “tax fraud and comparable crimes.”

PolitiFact Staff Researcher Caryn Baird, Staff Writers Loreben Tuquero, Kwasi Gyamfi Asiedu and Sara Swann and Contributing Writer Sofia Ahmed contributed to this report.

This fact check was originally published by PolitiFact , which is part of the Poynter Institute. See the sources for this fact check here .

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