Gov. Ron DeSantis to allow Miami-Dade, Broward counties to start reopening
DORAL, Fla. - Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Thursday that he is allowing Miami-Dade and Broward counties to begin reopening on Monday, May 18.
Speaking in Doral, the governor said he signed an executive order to allow the counties to move forward into phase one as the state's economy works to get back on track.
“Miami-Dade and Broward have both submitted plans that I’ve approved,” DeSantis said. “Today we take another important step for a very important part of the state of Florida.”
The counties, which have been the hardest hit by COVID-19, have been waiting for the governor's decision after being shut down for weeks during the coronavirus pandemic.
DeSantis said, "We understood that we have a responsibility to move forward in a safe, smart and step-by-step approach."
Miami-Dade released a 185-page draft this week of guidelines that should be followed by businesses that would be allowed to reopen in phase 1, including restaurants and salons.
MOBILE USERS: Click here to watch Governor DeSantis announce the reopening of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and more
On Monday, certain businesses such as restaurants, warehouses, and some offices will be allowed to reopen.
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Gyms, nightclubs, pools, beaches and movie theaters will remain closed. Beaches will remain closed until at least May 26.
During the same news conference, DeSantis also announced he would be extending an order to prevent foreclosures and evictions during the coronavirus pandemic until June 2.