Business owners in Nebraska are starting to plan their comeback, now that the governor has unveiled his plan to ease coronavirus restrictions. Gov. Pete Ricketts said Friday that he will relax restrictions in 59 counties, including those in the Omaha area. The new orders, effective until May 31, allow restaurants to reopen their dining rooms but require them to keep crowds at or below half of their rated occupancy. Dining parties are limited to six people, buffets are still closed, and bars must keep their dining areas closed. Ricketts’ plan also allows barbershops, tattoo parlors, salons and massage therapists to reopen, with restrictions.
Nebraska churches are taking a more cautious approach to resuming worship services even though the state will allow them to gather their members again starting next month. The Rev. Michael McCabe of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln said he’s not sure yet when worship services will resume at his church. Gov. Pete Ricketts' announced plans to begin easing restrictions in the state starting May 4 includes allowing churches to reopen if they take certain precautions. The governor’s office said churches will need to refrain from passing items between worshipers and people from different households will have to sit 6 feet apart.