SALT LAKE CITY (July 17, 2020) – Gov. Gary R. Herbert has issued an Executive Order adopting version 4.8 of the Phased Guidelines. The updated guidelines allow, but do not require, schools in the Orange (Medium Risk) Phase to open and provide some level of in-person instruction. The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until August 7.
Today the Utah Department of Health issued a public health order mandating the use of face coverings in all K-12 schools. The order establishes certain exemptions that will apply when an individual is maintaining physical distancing of at least six feet apart from another individual, when the individual is eating or drinking, and if the individual has a medical condition, mental health condition, or a disability that prevents the wearing of the face covering.
Gov. Herbert issued the following statement: “We want to ensure we have the safest environment possible for students, teachers, and faculty as they return to school this fall. We have established guidelines on how districts can follow these mandates and we trust local school districts and charters to use common sense in creating thoughtful reopening plans for the families and communities they serve.”
The public health order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until December 31.
View the updated phased guidelines here.
View the public health order here and the full Executive Order here.