Oklahoma: State-by-State COVID-19 Guidance

Please note: As of April 15, 2021 we are no longer doing regularly scheduled updates to this page.

April 15, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 16 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 54 are in the “yellow” risk level, and 7 are in the “green” risk level of the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

April 8, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) announced that it is removing the residency requirement for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in Oklahoma effective April 8, 2021. All Oklahomans 16 and older remain eligible for the vaccine.

OSDH also announced 10 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 57 are in the “yellow” risk level, and 10 are in the “green” risk level of the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

April 1, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 10 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 60 are in the “yellow” risk level, and 7 are in the “green” risk level of the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

March 25, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) announced that Oklahoma is moving into Phase 4 of its vaccine rollout plan. Beginning March 29, 2021, all Oklahomans age 16 and over will be eligible to schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment. The vaccine is available at no cost, and Oklahomans can register through the state’s Vaccine Scheduler Portal.

The OSDH announced 12 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 59 are in the “yellow” risk level, and 6 are in the “green” risk level of the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

March 18, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 15 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 61 are in the “yellow” risk level, and one is in the “green” risk level of the COVID-19 Risk Level System. A county moves into the “orange” (moderate) risk level when it has more than 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. A county moves into the “yellow” (low) risk level when it has between 1.43 and 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. A county moves into the “green” (new normal) risk level when it has less than 1.43 daily new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

March 15, 2021:

Effective March 9, 2021, the Oklahoma State Department of Health announced that the state would be moving to Phase 3 of the vaccine distribution plan. Those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination in Phase 3 include:

• Teachers, students aged 18 and older, and residents and administrative staff in educational settings including:
  • Childcare facilities;
  • Early childhood facilities;
  • Colleges and universities;
  • Career and vocational technology centers; and
  • Other post-secondary institutions.
• Critical infrastructure personnel who are at high risk of exposure to, transmission of, and morbidity and mortality resulting from COVID-19 infection. According to Executive Order 2020-13, this includes personnel in the following industries:
  • Chemical: petroleum and coal products manufacturing, chemical manufacturing;
  • Commercial and professional services: photography studios, maid and housekeeping studios, waste management, dry cleaning and laundry services, animal care facilities, death care services, repair and maintenance, administrative and support services;
  • Communications: broadcasting, publishing, telecommunications, motion picture production, sound recording;
  • Construction and infrastructure;
  • Defense Industrial Base;
  • Emergency and protective services;
  • Energy: mining, oil and gas extraction, pipeline transportation, electrical equipment manufacturing, machinery manufacturing;
  • Financial: finance and insurance, real estate and leasing, business associations;
  • Food, forestry, and agriculture: food manufacturing, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing, veterinary services;
  • Government facilities;
  • Healthcare and social assistance;
  • Information technology;
  • Manufacturing: paper, printing, plastics and rubber products, mineral products, primary metal manufacturing;
  • Restaurants, retail, and hospitality;
  • Transportation and distribution, including postal services and distribution centers; and
  • Utilities.

On March 12, 2021, the Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 28 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 48 are in the “yellow” risk level, and one is in the “green” risk level.

March 11, 2021:

Governor Kevin Stitt and Health Commissioner Lance Frye announced Oklahoma is updating its visitation guidelines for long-term care facilities. Visitation to long-term care facilities was closed by the state in March 2020 to protect high-risk residents from contracting COVID-19. The update will allow people who have completed state-certified essential care training to visit residents in long-term care facilities. Residents may designate one or more essential caregivers to make in-person visits.

March 8, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced that the state will begin vaccinating the remaining Phase 2 groups starting the week of March 8, 2021. The remaining priority groups in Phase 2 include:

• Staff and residents in congregate locations including but not limited to:
  • Homeless shelters;
  • Public and private state and municipal prisons/jails (not including federal facilities);
  • Workplaces where social distancing is not possible (such as early childcare facilities);
  • Certain manufacturing facilities with limited social distancing capacity that are critical to the maintenance of food supply; and
  • Public transit systems that do not allow for appropriate social distancing.
• Senior state, county, and city government leaders and elected officials critical to maintaining continuity of governmental operations and services.
• Public health staff assisting on the front lines.

On March 8, 2021, the Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 28 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 47 are in the “yellow” risk level, and two are in the “green” risk level.

March 1, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 48 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level and 29 are in the “yellow” risk level for the COVID-19 Risk Level System. A county moves into the “orange” (moderate) risk level when it has more than 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. A county moves into the “yellow” (low) risk level when it has between 1.43 and 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

February 22, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 62 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, 14 are in the “yellow” risk level (Cimarron, Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Major, Woodward, Dewey, Beckham, Lowe, Pushmataha, Latimer, Logan, Okfuskee, and Craig counties), and one is in the “green” risk level (Roger Mills County), per the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

A county moves into the “orange” (moderate) risk level when it has more than 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. In counties under the “orange” risk level:

• Individuals must wear face coverings in public, limit out of state travel, and maintain physical distance of six feet apart.
• Businesses should prioritize telework whenever possible.
• High-contact businesses should operate under stricter public health protocols.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

A county moves into the “yellow” (low) risk level when it has between 1.43 and 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. In counties under the “yellow” risk level:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet (and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain), and practice symptom checks before team sports competitions.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, and face coverings.
• Businesses are encouraged to consider flexible work arrangements to enhance physical distancing, and face coverings should be work when physical distancing is not feasible.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

A county moves into the “green” or “New Normal” risk phase when there are less than 1.43 daily new cases per 100,000 population. In counties under the “green” risk level:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet apart, and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, face coverings, and symptom monitoring.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures as outlined by the CDC.
• Employers should exercise discretion with returning to regularly scheduled, onsite work and should follow elevated hygiene guidelines and physical distancing.
• High-risk individuals should telework if possible, limit physical interactions with other high-risk individuals, and limit visits to hospitals, nursing homes, or other residential care facilities.

Oklahoma will begin vaccinating the next high-risk priority groups in Phase 2 of the state’s distribution plan. This includes:

• Oklahomans under 65 with comorbidities, including but not limited to: hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, Down syndrome, diabetes mellitus, chronic lung, liver, or renal disease, cancers, and those who are at high risk of mortality and severe morbidity resulting from a COVID-19 infection; and
• Teachers and staff in Pre-K-12 schools and educational settings.

Vaccine appointments are still available to those included in earlier priority groups, including healthcare workers, people 65 and over, and long-term care staff and residents.

February 15, 2021:

Governor Stitt signed Executive Order 2021-07 to continue the State of Oklahoma’s COVID-19 response. The Executive Order extends the State of Emergency to March 12, 2021 and continues to commit the resources of all state departments and agencies to prepare for and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The order limits public and social gatherings to 50% occupancy, except for gatherings in private residences, buildings, or businesses providing religious, healthcare, educational, public safety, and childcare services. Attendance at youth sports and extracurricular activities is limited to 50% occupancy.

The order also requires anyone on property owned or leased by the State of Oklahoma to wear a facial covering or mask at all times where physical distancing is difficult to observe.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 74 Oklahoma counties are in the “orange” risk level, two are in the “yellow” risk level (Cimarron and Beaver counties), and one is in the “green” risk level (Roger Mills County), per the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

A county moves into the “orange” (moderate) risk level when it has more than 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. In counties under the “orange” risk level:

• Individuals must wear face coverings in public, limit out of state travel, and maintain physical distance of six feet apart.
• Businesses should prioritize telework whenever possible.
• High-contact businesses should operate under stricter public health protocols.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

A county moves into the “yellow” (low) risk level when it has between 1.43 and 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. In counties under the “yellow” risk level:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet (and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain), and practice symptom checks before team sports competitions.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, and face coverings.
• Businesses are encouraged to consider flexible work arrangements to enhance physical distancing, and face coverings should be work when physical distancing is not feasible.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

A county moves into the “green” or “New Normal” risk phase when there are less than 1.43 daily new cases per 100,000 population. In counties under the “green” risk level:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet apart, and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, face coverings, and symptom monitoring.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures as outlined by the CDC.
• Employers should exercise discretion with returning to regularly scheduled, onsite work and should follow elevated hygiene guidelines and physical distancing.
• High-risk individuals should telework if possible, limit physical interactions with other high-risk individuals, and limit visits to hospitals, nursing homes, or other residential care facilities.

February 11, 2021:

Governor Stitt announced the COVID-19 vaccine will be available to the next priority groups in Phase 2 of the state’s vaccine distribution plan. The following groups will be eligible for a vaccine starting the week of February 22:

• Oklahomans under the age of 65 with comorbidities (including but not limited to hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, Down syndrome, diabetes mellitus, chronic lung, liver, or renal disease, and cancer); and
• Teachers and staff in public and private Pre-K-12 schools and educational settings.

February 10, 2021:

Governor Stitt signed Senate Bill 1031 into law, reinstating temporary modifications to the Open Meeting Act to allow for virtual public meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The law also requires public bodies to post documents online that are provided to participants of the meeting. The law will remain in place until February 15, 2022, or until 30 days after the COVID-19 state of emergency expires, whichever is earlier.

February 8, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 76 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties are in the “orange” risk level and one, Cimarron County, is in the “yellow” risk level per the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System.

In counties under the “orange” risk level:

• Individuals must wear face coverings in public, limit out of state travel, and maintain physical distance of six feet apart.
• Businesses should prioritize telework whenever possible.
• High-contact businesses should operate under stricter public health protocols.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

In counties under the “yellow” risk level:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet apart (and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain), and practice symptom checks before team sports competitions.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, and face coverings.
• Businesses are encouraged to consider flexible work arrangements to enhance physical distancing, and face coverings should be work when physical distancing is not feasible.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

The Health Department also announced that its Vaccine Scheduler Portal is now operational for eligible Oklahomans to schedule their COVID-19 vaccination. Oklahoma is in Phase 2 of its vaccine rollout, making the following groups currently vaccine eligible:

• Healthcare workers (including allied health fields and general outpatient health services);
• First responders;
• Oklahomans aged 65 and older;
• Teachers and staff in Pre-K through grade 12;
• Staff and residents in congregate locations and worksites; and
• Public health staff supporting front line efforts.

February 1, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced 76 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties are in the “orange” risk level (all except for Ellis county) and one is in the “yellow” risk level (Ellis county) per the state’s COVID-19 Risk Level System. The Department of Health’s risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses.

A county moves into the “orange” (moderate) risk level when it has more than 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. The department of health’s risk level categorizations provide guidelines for individuals and businesses. Counties under the “orange” risk level are provided the following guidelines:

• Individuals must wear face coverings in public, limit out of state travel, and maintain physical distance of six feet apart.
• Businesses should prioritize telework whenever possible.
• High-contact businesses should operate under stricter public health protocols.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

A county moves into the “yellow” (low) risk level when it has between 1.43 and 14.29 daily new cases per 100,000 people. Counties under the “yellow” risk level are provided the following guidelines:

• Individuals should wash their hands often for 20 seconds, maintain physical distance of six feet apart (and wear face coverings when physical distancing is difficult to maintain), and practice symptom checks before team sports competitions.
• Large or public gatherings should operate with increased hygiene measures, physical distancing, and face coverings.
• Businesses are encouraged to consider flexible work arrangements to enhance physical distancing, and face coverings should be work when physical distancing is not feasible.
• Dine-in service should operate under elevated cleaning and hygiene measures, as outlined by the CDC.

January 14, 2021:

On January 14, Governor Stitt issued Ninth Amended Executive Order 2020-20, which extends the state of emergency in Oklahoma. Most notably, the Order removes the requirement for restaurants and bars to close for in person dining and service at 11:00 p.m. which was previously put in place by Seventh Amended Executive Order 2020-20.

January 11, 2021:

The Oklahoma State Department of Health released a COVID-19 Vaccine Priority Population Framework. Under this framework, vaccine distribution is broken up into four Phases. Phase 1, as described below, is currently underway.

• Long Term Care residents and staff served by the federal LTC Pharmacy Partnership Program (To be fulfilled per the federal allocation plan and distribution methods carried out via CVS and Walgreens to facilities certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Non-CMS facilities served by the state allocation plan.)
  • Description: Workers in residential health care settings who either work in situations where risk of transmission is high or are at an elevated risk of transmitting the infection to patients at high risk of mortality and severe morbidity. Individuals living in residential health care settings that increase their risk of infection and resultant morbidity and mortality.
• Health care workers providing direct inpatient care, including but not limited to Emergency Rooms, hospitals, Intensive Care Units, and other workers inherent to the care of patients as determined by the inpatient facility (e.g. janitorial, food service, etc.).
  • Description: Workers in acute/emergency/inpatient health care settings who either work in situations where risk of transmission is high or are at an elevated risk of transmitting the infection to patients at high risk of mortality and severe morbidity.
• Public health staff conducting front line COVID-19 pandemic mitigation and control activities (including but not limited to nurses administering COVID vaccine, public and private lab personnel processing COVID specimens, and other public health staff inherent to the COVID testing/vaccine process with direct contact with the public).
  • Description: Workers in public health settings who either work in situations where risk of transmission is high, who themselves are unable to avoid exposure to the virus, and who play a critical role in ensuring that those with or suspected of COVID are able to be served by the public health system.
• Oklahoma, state licensed, Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics.
  • Description: Workers who provide direct, emergency services to those with or suspected of COVID when rendering necessary immediate care as an extension of the direct, inpatient COVID care provided by hospitals. Oklahoma licensed personnel includes certified emergency medical responders, licensed EMTs, Intermediates, Advanced EMTs, and Paramedics.

Phase 2 has now begun, though it does not signal the end of Phase 1. The following individuals will receive the vaccination under Phase 2:

• First responders, paid and unpaid (including but not limited to, fire departments, law enforcement, homeland security, emergency managers, and medical examiners).
  • Description: Workers who provide emergency services in some situations where exposure to infected individuals is unavoidable when rendering necessary immediate care to the public
• Health care workers providing direct, COVID outpatient care and services, who through the course of their daily roles are not able to maintain social distancing, including but not limited to:
  • Workers providing care primarily for adults 65 and older, and/or adults of any age with comorbidities
  • Workers directly treating or screening for COVID-19
  • Workers in high-risk outpatient settings such as those performing aerosolized procedures or close examinations of the nasopharynx, dentists, speech-language pathologists, etc.
  • Workers in urgent care, outpatient facilities, primary care, federally qualified health centers, community health centers, rural health centers, pharmacies (not involved in the federal allocation plan), home health, hospice, rehabilitation services, occupational/physical therapy, etc.
  • Death care workers, involved in the handling of deceased COVID-19 persons
• Adults age 65 and older, and adults of any age with comorbidities.
  • Description: Older adults and adults with one or multiple comorbid conditions including not limited to hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic lung, liver or renal disease, cancers, who are at high risk of mortality and severe morbidity resulting from COVID infection.
• Teachers and staff in Pre-K-12 schools and educational settings.
  • Description: Workers within public and private Pre-K-12 schools, for which exposure is very difficult to control due to the nature of their institutions, and who serve an important societal role ensuring educational needs are met.
• Staff and residents in congregate locations and worksites including but not limited to:
  • Homeless shelters
  • Public and private, state and municipal prisons/jails, not including those facilities served by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and involved in the federal allocation plan
  • Certain manufacturing facilities with limited social distancing capacity who are critical to the maintenance of the food supply
  • Public transit systems that do not allow for appropriate social distancing
• Public health staff supporting front line efforts, senior state, county, and city government leaders and elected officials critical to maintain continuity of governmental operations and services.
  • Description: Workers whose work is vital to the function of society and the economy, who work without adequate protection while in close proximity with coworkers and members of the public, and who are at high risk of exposure to and transmission of COVID infection.

December 14, 2020:

On December 10, Governor Stitt announced the implementation of statewide COVID-19 mitigation efforts. These mitigation efforts include:

• Attendance at youth indoor sporting events will be limited to four spectators per participant or 50% of the building’s capacity, whichever is lower.
• Public gatherings will be limited to 50 percent capacity unless the local Health Department has granted an exception.
• The rules for bars and restaurants, first implemented under Seventh Amended EO 2020-20 will be extended. Tables must stay six feet apart, unless separated by sanitized dividers, and restaurants and bars must close by 11:00 p.m. except for drive thru or takeout.
• Face masks will continue to be required for all state employees and visitors in state agency buildings.

November 16, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced that various restrictions will go into effect on Thursday, November 19. In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, all bars and restaurants will be ordered to close at 11:00 p.m. Only curbside and drive-thru service may continue after 11:00 p.m. Further, restaurants must keep all tables 6 feet apart. If this is not possible, restaurants are permitted to install sanitary dividers.

August 6, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced the CARES Act Model to Deploy approximately $250 million in CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds to Oklahoma cities and counties based on their population.

June 22, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced the creation of the Oklahoma Business Relief Program (OBRP) to provide funding for local businesses that have suffered a loss of 25% or more from January to May 2020, as compared to their 2019 revenue for the same months. Interested businesses, subject to business eligibility restrictions, must apply through a participating financial institution. Applications will be accepted from June 26 to July 10, and funds will be distributed on July 17.

June 15, 2020:

Under Governor Stitt’s Amended Executive Order nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and retirement homes were permitted to reopen on June 15, 2020, for visitation, outings, group meals and communal dining in accordance with guidance issued by the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

May 29, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced that Oklahoma will move into Phase 3 of his three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma on Monday, June 1. Phase 3 includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Citizens should minimize time spent in crowded environments and continue following CDC guidelines regarding social distancing
• If you are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population, continue following safer-at-home policies.
• Visitation to hospitals is allowed within the guidelines provided in the OURS plan.
• Visitation to senior care facilities, except for end-of-life situations, will be prohibited until affirmatively lifted by Executive Order

Employer guidance:

• Summer camps (church and school) can open
• Businesses can resume unrestricted staffing at their worksites by observing proper CDC-recommended social distancing protocols and are recommended to continue increased cleaning and disinfecting practices.
• Suggested guidelines regarding use of masks and other personal protective equipment can be found on the CDC website along with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website.
• Businesses operating by appointment only may begin operating by appointment and walk-in at their discretion.

Specific Employer guidance:

• Visits to Senior Care Facilities should still be prohibited until the task force completes cleaning and testing protocols across the state. When this is completed, it will be posted on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Oklahoma Department of Health websites.
• Visits to hospitals shall be subject to the following limitations.
  • In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, health care facilities (hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, outpatient diagnostic centers, and clinics) are uniquely charged with protecting both the health of those they serve and the health of their caregivers. As an essential part of the front line to stopping the community spread of COVID-19, health care facilities should maintain compliance with current CDC guidelines regarding limiting visitation to their facilities through the establishment of policies that limit the number of people who may access their facility.
  • Depending upon the prevalence of community spread and number of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients in the facility, in consultation with medical staff, the facility shall determine the visitation policies. If determined that it is safe for the patient and the staff, the following visitation will be allowed in Phases 2 and 3 of the OURS plan:
    • Each patient may be permitted one adult Patient Representative to support and assist the patient with receipt of care. The Patient Representative should be the same throughout the admission or visit.
      • Additional Patient Representatives may be permitted if exceptional circumstances warrant consideration and in compliance with facility policy.
      • Patient Representatives shall be subject to any screening procedures required by the facility including temperature screenings, observance of hand hygiene practices, and the wearing of their own mask at all times while in the facility.
    • The facility may further limit access to patients when Patient Representatives fail to follow facility policy.
    • Social distancing is required at all times.

May 26, 2020:

Oklahoma is currently positioned in Phase 2 of Governor Stitt’s three-phase-plan to reopen Oklahoma. Under the Plan, Oklahoma is set to move in to Phase 3 on June 1 assuming hospital and incident rates continue to remain at a manageable level statewide. Phase 3 includes the following:

Employer guidance:

• Can resume unrestricted staffing of worksites

Specific Employer guidance:

• Summer camps (church and school) can open
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities should still be prohibited
• Visits to hospitals shall be subject to the following limitations.
  • In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, health care facilities (hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, outpatient diagnostic centers, and clinics) are uniquely charged with protecting both the health of those they serve and the health of their caregivers. As an essential part of the front line to stopping the community spread of COVID-19, health care facilities should maintain compliance with current CDC guidelines regarding limiting visitation to their facilities through the establishment of policies that limit the number of people who may access their facility.
  • Depending upon the prevalence of community spread and number of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients in the facility, in consultation with medical staff, the facility shall determine the visitation policies. If determined that it is safe for the patient and the staff, the following visitation will be allowed in Phases 2 and 3 of the OURS plan:
    • 1. Each patient may be permitted one adult Patient Representative to support and assist the patient with receipt of care. The Patient Representative should be the same throughout the admission or visit.
      • a. Additional Patient Representatives may be permitted if exceptional circumstances warrant consideration and in compliance with facility policy.
      • b. Patient Representatives shall be subject to any screening procedures required by the facility including temperature screenings, observance of hand hygiene practices, and the wearing of their own mask at all times while in the facility.
    • 2. The facility may further limit access to patients when Patient Representatives fail to follow facility policy.
    • 3. Social distancing is required at all times.

Additional details on Phase 3 are expected to be released prior to June 1.

May 15, 2020:

Oklahoma moved into Phase 2 of Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to re-open Oklahoma today. Phase 2 of the plan includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if individuals are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population
• Maintain social distancing from others when in public
• Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing
• Consider resuming non-essential travel

Employer guidance:

• Close common areas or enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations
• Employers are recommended to implement social distancing protocols, which include proper sanitation and use of protective equipment when interacting with the public

Specific Employer guidance:

• Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should be prohibited
• Bars can operate with diminished standing-room occupancy, where applicable and appropriate, and under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols
• Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen

May 14, 2020:

Oklahoma moves into Phase 2 of Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to re-open Oklahoma on May 15. Phase 2 of the plan includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if individuals are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population
• Maintain social distancing from others when in public
• Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing
• Consider resuming non-essential travel

Employer guidance:

• Close common areas or enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations
• Employers are recommended to implement social distancing protocols, which include proper sanitation and use of protective equipment when interacting with the public

Specific Employer guidance:

• Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should be prohibited
• Bars can operate with diminished standing-room occupancy, where applicable and appropriate, and under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols
• Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen

May 13, 2020:

Oklahoma is set to move into Phase 2 of Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma this Friday, May 15. Phase 2 includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if they are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population
• Maintain social distancing from others when in public
• Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing
• Consider resuming non-essential travel

Employer guidance:

• Close common areas or enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations
• Employers are recommended to implement social distancing protocols, which include proper sanitation and use of protective equipment when interacting with the public

Specific Employer guidance:

• Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should be prohibited
• Bars can operate with diminished standing-room occupancy, where applicable and appropriate, and under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols
• Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen

Following the expected move into Phase 2 on May 15, Oklahoma will move into Phase 3 if hospital and incident rates remain at a manageable level for 14 days. The plan includes a goal of moving into Phase 3 on June 1. At this point, the full details of Phase 3 have not been released but the plan includes the following recommended “starting points” for establishing Phase 3:

Employer guidance:

• Can resume unrestricted staffing of worksites

Specific Employer guidance:

• Summer camps (church and school) can open
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should still be prohibited

May 6, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced Oklahoma is on track to move into Phase 2 of his three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma on May 15. Oklahoma entered Phase 1 on May 1. Movement through the phases is predicated on hospital & incident rates remaining at a manageable level for 14 days. Phase 2 of Governor Stitt’s plan includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if they are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population
• Maintain social distancing from others when in public
• Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing
• Consider resuming non-essential travel

Employer guidance:

• Close common areas or enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations
• Employers are recommended to implement social distancing protocols, which include proper sanitation and use of protective equipment when interacting with the public

Specific Employer guidance:

• Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under proper social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should still be prohibited
• Bars can operate with diminished standing-room occupancy, where applicable and appropriate, and under social distancing and sanitation protocols
• Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols

Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen

May 1, 2020:

Phase 1 of Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma went into full effect today. If hospital and incident rates remain at a manageable level for 14 days Oklahoma will move into Phase 2 with the goal of doing so on May 15. Phase 1 of Governor Stitt’s plan includes the following:

Individual guidance:

• Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if they are over 65 or part of a vulnerable Population
• Maximize social distance from others when in public (e.g., parks, outdoor recreation areas, shopping areas)
• Avoid socializing in groups or facilities that do not readily allow for appropriate social Distancing
• Minimize non-essential travel iv and adhere to CDC guidelines and Executive Orders regarding isolation following travel

Employer guidance:

• Create plans to allow employees to return to work in phases
• Close common areas or enforce social distancing protocols
• Minimize non-essential travel and adhere to CDC guidelines and Executive Orders regarding isolation following travel
• Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations

Specific Employer guidance:

• Schools and organized sporting events and camps that are currently closed should remain closed until further notice
• Visits to Senior Living Facilities and Hospitals are prohibited

April 24 reopening:

• Personal care businesses, such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers can reopen for appointments only, must adhere to sanitation protocols, and follow guidelines posted on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website regarding social distancing between customers and visitors at personal care businesses.
• State parks and outdoor recreation should be reopened
• Grocery stores should continue to maintain hours for vulnerable populations

May 1 reopening:

• Dining, entertainment, movie theatres and sporting venues can operate using CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.
• Gyms can reopen if they adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.
• Places of worship can reopen for in-person meetings or worship if they leave every other row or pew open and adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols, plus the recommended guidelines from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
• Bars should remain closed.
• Tattoo Parlors can reopen for appointments only and must adhere to sanitation protocols and social distancing protocols for distancing between customers and visitors.

Oklahoma City and Tulsa largely fell in line with Phase 1 of Governor Stitt’s plan to reopen Oklahoma today. However, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt issued an emergency proclamation placing restrictions on Governor Stitt’s plan as applied to Oklahoma City and Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum similarly instituted additional restrictions.

April 30, 2020:

Phase 1 of Oklahoma Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma goes into expanded effect tomorrow. Phase 1 went into effect, in part, on April 24 with the reopening of certain personal care businesses such as hair salons as well as the reopening of state parks and outdoor recreation. Beginning May 1, Phase 1 expands to allow the following businesses to reopen:

• Dining, entertainment, movie theatres and sporting venues can operate using CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.
• Gyms can reopen if they adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.
• Places of worship can reopen for in-person meetings or worship if they leave every other row or pew open and adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols, plus the recommended guidelines from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
• Tattoo Parlors can reopen for appointments only and must adhere to sanitation protocols and social distancing protocols for distancing between customers and visitors.

If hospital and incident rates remain at a manageable level for 14 days Oklahoma will move into Phase 2 on May 15.

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum previously announced that Tulsa will fall in line with state and Federal guidelines for phased rollbacks of coronavirus restrictions. The following Tulsa specific guidelines will reportedly be in place during and in addition to Phase 1 of Governor Stitt’s plan to reopen Oklahoma:

• All events or gatherings of more than 10 people in Tulsa are banned through May 15 when the pandemic emergency conditions will be reassessed. This includes all social gatherings. Religious services, commercial activity and work are not considered gatherings.
• City-owned playgrounds, recreation centers, pools, splash pads and day camps shall remain closed indefinitely.
• City-owned sport courts, golf courses, pickleball, sports fields, and dog parks may resume operations with physical distancing and sanitation precautions on May 1.
• City-owned sports complexes and organized sports activities with more than 10 people shall remain closed through June 1.
• City bars shall remain closed through May 14. On May 15, Tulsa bars may resume operations with reduced occupancy based on 36 square feet per person (in the assembly/bar area). Bars are required to calculate and self-post this capacity next to their current capacity signage.
• No special event permits will be issued through May 14. The city will reassess special permits by May 15.

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt also announced that Oklahoma City will largely fall in line with Governor Stitt’s plan starting May 1. Mayor Holt signed an emergency proclamation which is effective May 1 through May 15, during and in addition to Phase 1 of Governor Stitt’s plan. The emergency proclamation similarly adds limitations to Governor Stitt’s plan within Oklahoma City.

April 24, 2020:

Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma began today. Personal care businesses, such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers were permitted to reopen for appointments only, but must adhere to sanitation protocols, and follow guidelines posted on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website regarding social distancing between customers and visitors at personal care businesses. State parks and outdoor recreation were permitted to re-open and grocery stores were advised to continue to maintain hours for vulnerable populations.

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt reminded residents that while Governor Stitt has permitted certain businesses to reopen the Oklahoma City Shelter In Place Proclamation remains in place until April 30. As such, the businesses permitted to reopen under Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan must nonetheless remain closed until at least April 30, when the proclamation expires.

Tulsa Mayor GT Bynum also reminded residents that while Governor Stitt has permitted certain businesses to reopen the Tulsa Safer At Home Order remains in place until April 30. As such, businesses permitted to reopen under Governor Stitt’s plan must nonetheless remain closed until the Order expires. Mayor Bynum stated that on May 1, following the expiration of the Safer At Home Order on April 30, Tulsa will fall in line with State and Federal guidelines for phased rollbacks of COVID-19 restrictions.

April 23, 2020:

Governor Stitt’s three-phase plan to reopen Oklahoma titled “Open Up and Recover Safely” begins tomorrow. On Friday, April 24, personal care businesses, such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers can reopen for appointments only, must adhere to sanitation protocols, and follow guidelines posted on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website regarding social distancing between customers and visitors at personal care businesses. State parks and outdoor recreation will be reopened and grocery stores should continue to maintain hours for vulnerable populations. On Friday, May 1, dining, entertainment, movie theatres and sporting venues can operate using CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols. Gyms can reopen if they adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols. Places of worship can reopen for in-person meetings or worship if they leave every other row or pew open and adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols, plus the recommended guidelines from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Finally, tattoo parlors can reopen for appointments only and must adhere to sanitation protocols and social distancing protocols for distancing between customers and visitors. Bars should remain closed. The CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols referenced in the plan can be found here.

April 22, 2020:

April 22, 2020: Governor Stitt announced Oklahoma will begin to reopen businesses on Friday, April 24, 2020. While no formal order for the reopening is in place, Governor Stitt detailed a three-phase reopening plan. Under Phase One, Safer-At-Home guidelines should continue to be followed. On Friday, April 24, personal care businesses such as hair and nail salons, can open if they adhere to strict sanitation and social distancing protocols. Beginning May 1, 2020, restaurants (dining rooms), gyms, movie theaters, sports venues and places of worship may open if they follow strict sanitation and social distancing protocols. Following 14 days of manageable hospitalization rates the state will move into Phase Two. Under this phase, elderly and vulnerable individuals will still follow Safer-At-Home guidelines. Nonessential travel and organized sports may resume. Bars may open with diminished standing room occupancy and funerals and weddings with no more than 10 individuals in attendance may resume. If hospital rates remain manageable under Phase Two, the state will move into Phase Three. The details of Phase Three have not yet been released.

April 17, 2020:

On April 16, 2020, Oklahoma Governor Stitt signed Second Amended Executive Order 2020-13 extending Oklahoma’s safer-at-home through May 6, 2020. All businesses within the state not included within a critical infrastructure sector as defined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or defined as essential by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce through the use of the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) must remain closed.

April 16, 2020:

Governor Stitt announced he is extending the safer-at-home order through May 6, 2020. All businesses within the state not included within a critical infrastructure sector as defined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or defined as essential by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce through the use of the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) must remain closed.

April 3, 2020:

On April 1, 2020, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt issued the Seventh Amended Executive Order No. 2020-07 extending Executive Order No. 2020-07 through April 30, 2020, and imposing further restrictions on Oklahoma residents and businesses. Namely, Governor Stitt ordered the closure of all businesses within the state not included within a critical infrastructure sector as defined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or defined as essential by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce through the use of the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Prior to this amendment, Governor Stitt only required non-essential businesses to close in Oklahoma counties experiencing “community spread” of Covid-19.

March 30, 2020:

(Oklahoma City): Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt issued the Third Revised Emergency Proclamation which requires residents to shelter in place. The emergency proclamation further includes the closure of non-essential businesses with essential businesses being those defined by the Governor Stitt as critical infrastructure sectors. Governor Stitt ordered the closure of non-essential businesses on March 25 but has not, at this point, instituted a strict state-wide shelter in place order.

(Tulsa): Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum, in conjunction with Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, instituted a shelter in place order lasting through April 16, 2020. As with Mayor Holt’s order, this order requires the closure of non-essential businesses as defined by Governor Stitt as critical infrastructure sectors.

March 25, 2020:

Governor Stitt issued the Fourth Amended Executive Order 2020-07 which mandates the closure of all non-essential businesses in each of the 19 Oklahoma counties with confirmed COVD-19 cases for 21 days (April 16) beginning at 11:59 p.m. today. The following 19 Oklahoma counties included under the order are: Canadian; Cleveland; Custer: Garvin; Grady; Jackson; Kay; Logan; Mayes; McClain; Muskogee; Noble; Oklahoma; Pawnee; Payne; Pontotoc; Tulsa; Wagner; and Washington. The order allows only those businesses being within a critical infrastructure sections defined in the federal memorandum of "Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce." At a press conference on March 24, Governor Stitt stated nonessential businesses include businesses with close contact or personal touch such as hair salons, gyms, theaters, massage parlors and tattoo parlors. Governor Stitt confirmed that he will provide further guidance on the amended order, but he has not done so thus far. At this point, no statewide postponement of evictions is in place. However, the Oklahoma Supreme Court filed an emergency order on March 16 suspending deadlines and procedures in most cases for 30 days, effectively hampering most eviction procedures.

March 24, 2020:

Governor Stitt issued the Fourth Amended Executive Order 2020-07 which, in part, includes “safer-at-home” provisions aimed at vulnerable residents. The order requests that elderly, immunocompromised, and individuals with pre-existing conditions stay in their homes for 30 days, except for essential tasks such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy. The order further prohibits gatherings of 10 or more people and restricts visitation to long-term care or retirement facilities and nursing homes. Governor Stitt also ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses in 19 Oklahoma counties with confirmed COVD-19 cases. Non-essential businesses are ordered to close by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25 and remain closed for 21 days. No statewide restriction on evictions has been put in place in Oklahoma. However, some counties, such as Oklahoma County, have self-instituted eviction restrictions.