Gov. Kim Reynolds announced during her press conference this (Wednesday) morning that she is extending the current modified State of Public Health Disaster Emergency through Dec. 16. The enhanced protocols, which were originally set to expire at 11:59 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday), prohibit indoor gatherings of more than 15 people and outdoor gatherings of more than 30 and limited all sporting events except for those at the high school, collegiate or professional levels with a mask requirement for reduced-size crowds. While the gathering and mask requirement portions of the order will remain in effect, organized sports for youth and adult leagues can resume, but the two spectators per participant remains in effect. Cheerleaders, band members and others performing at high school sporting events will now also be allowed two spectators each. Establishments serving alcohol, including bars, restaurants and casinos, must enforce last call for in-person service at 10 p.m. The order also allows hospitals to expand their elective procedure offerings from a 50 percent reduction to 25 percent. All other aspects of the proclamation are to remain in effect through Jan. 8, 2021. Reynolds noted during the press conference the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is scheduled to hold hearings on the new coronavirus vaccines this week. She is expecting we will see the first doses in Iowa going out shortly after Christmas. For the latest coronavirus numbers and proclamation language, visit coronavirus.iowa.gov.
