Alaska Reopens for Business

Much of Alaska will be allowed to reopen as of 8 a.m. on May 22.   Governor Dunleavy has announced that the state will move straight from its current Phase II of the Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan, which permits only limited business operations, to Phase IV.  Most businesses will be allowed to fully reopen on Friday.  While the state has issued general guidance and is expected to issue more detailed safety guidelines for specific businesses, each business will be expected to self-regulate.  The guidelines are suggestions and not mandates.

Limited exceptions to full reopening include independent commercial fishing vessels, which remain subject to Health Mandate 017, and health care providers, which remain subject to Health Mandate 015.  In addition, travel restrictions still remain in place, including the requirement that travelers entering Alaska from out of state must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival (per Health Mandates 010 and 018).  While large gatherings will be permitted, organizers are encouraged to consult with public health officials prior to scheduling large events in order to ensure they are carried out safely.

Though statewide restrictions are relaxing, businesses will still be subject to any local requirements or restrictions.  For example, Anchorage currently remains in Phase 2 of Safe Anchorage: A Roadmap to Reopening.