April 25th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

Gov. Larry Hogan on Friday outlined a three-stage plan to reopen Maryland businesses and ease restrictions forced by COVID-19.

The governor did not offer a target date to begin implementing the plan. However, he said he is "hopeful" that if Marylanders continue to practice physical distancing and follow other public health guidance, the plan could more forward as soon as early May.eoThe plan was based on guidelines released by the White House and the Hogan-led National Governors Association. It incorporates research from the American Enterprise Institute and Johns Hopkins and takes into account input from scientists, public health experts and business leaders.

The first stage of the plan would see an end to the stay-home order and the reopening of low-risk establishments, including golf courses and tennis courts. Outdoor religious activities would be allowed. Certain jurisdictions will be able to allow elective outpatient medical procedures. Localities will be given flexibility on whether to open parks, libraries and other public places.

Under the second phase, non-essential workers who can't work from home will be able to go back to work, some church services will be able to resume and restrictions on gatherings will be loosened. Transit services would run more frequently than they have been and bars and restaurants could reopen with social distancing restrictions in place.

Under the third phase, higher-risk activities and venues could reopen and restrictions could be eased for hospitals and, eventually, nursing homes.

He said Maryland likely won't return to business as usual until a coronavirus vaccine is available.

Hogan said he has organized advisory groups for 15 sectors, including small business, construction and religious institutions. The groups will determine the safest way for their respective sectors to reopen.