Walz looks to safely reopen bars, restaurants and salons in June

Following his extension of Minnesota's peacetime emergency and lifting of the state's 'stay at home' order, Gov. Tim Walz announced he is directing staff to assemble guidelines to safely reopen bars, restaurants, barbershops and salons by June 1. 

"As we look forward, I have directed my cabinet to continue the extensive discussions they are already having with health experts and thousands of businesses on future openings," the governor said.

Walz said the reopening of those businesses would coincide with an increase in testing, tracing and isolating the virus. 

Gov. Walz won't extend 'stay at home' order, loosening some restrictions starting Monday

Walz ordered the temporary closure of restaurants, bars and "places of public amusement" back in March prior to issuing his 'stay at home' order.

Restaurants have since been offering takeout food options. State lawmakers also passed legislation that allows restaurants to offer takeout wine and beer. 

With the expiration of the 'stay at home' order set for Monday, people will be able to gather with others in small groups of up to 10 people, and some retail businesses, such as those in malls and main street businesses, will be allowed to reopen up to 50% capacity with some guidelines and plans in place.