The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) gave official recommendations for implementing safe reopening for businesses that have been paused throughout the state, according to a press release from the governor's office.

Gov. Doug Ducey (R) issued an executive order on June 27  about the reopening of a number of industries that have had to stop operations since the onset of COVID-19. 

Among these paused businesses include gyms and fitness centers, bars and nightclubs, waterparks, movie theaters and other types of venues that involve gatherings of large groups of people. 

The order was extended an additional two weeks on July 23, with the intention of reviewing rates of the virus every two weeks, after the rate of positive tests began to decline and hospital capacity increased. 

ADHS is following guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as the White House Coronavirus Task Force and other experts in the medical and public health sectors, according to the press release.

Benchmarks are broken into three categories of minimal, moderate and substantial with the first having fewer than 10 cases per 100,000, the second category having 10 to 100 cases per 100,000 and substantial being marked by more than 100 cases per 100,000.

“Upon reopening, all industries must implement the safety protocols and guidelines prescribed by ADHS and must submit an attestation form stating they are in compliance. The attestation form shall be posted in a visible location in the facility. Additional details can be found in the ADHS COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses," the governor's office said in the press release.

So long as paused businesses are able to maintain 3% or lower positivity while operating at 50% occupancy, they may be allowed to continue operations.  

ADHS has advised that the restrictions be maintained, but has provided metrics to help business and industry leaders discern what is informing the decisions of public officials.