Nebraska to launch task force to help businesses open back up

LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and State Economic Developer John Goins said the state will be launching a task force to help businesses open back up.

The task force will provide guidance on best practices for businesses that are ready to re-open. Certain businesses in the state, such as restaurants and salons, can re-open in some areas beginning May 4.

When it comes to employees going back to work, Ricketts said those who are nervous, due to underlying health conditions, may stay on unemployment because it's coronavirus-related.

When it comes to salons, Ricketts says the mask requirement for customers will be strict. They must be in a mask and have to work around it to get their hair done. Things like facials likely won't be able to happen yet. Salons in parts of the state, including in the Omaha area, can re-open May 4.

“You’re just going to have to work around that mask, so facials are going to be something, you’re probably not going to be doing anytime in the near future, you’re going to have to keep it to hair styling,” says Ricketts.

Ricketts also said to expect to be practicing social distancing well into the summer.

He also announced that 89,000 people have signed up for expanded coronavirus testing. Ricketts says the first two testing sites for the expanded testing will be in Omaha and Grand Island, the cities with the most cases.

3 News Now Reporter Jon Kipper was there, providing live updates via Twitter:

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