Tennessee: 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 1, 2021:

The Metro Public Health Department announced on March 31, 2021 that anyone over the age of 16 is now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Those eligible can schedule an appointment online or call the TDH vaccine support line at 866-442-5301. Transportation resources are available when appointments are booked online or via phone.

March 29, 2021:

Public Pharmacy is opening appointments at 23 Tennessee locations for COVID-19 vaccinations. Starting March 30 at 7:00 a.m., eligible individuals can use the company’s online system to schedule their COVID-19 vaccination appointment. Vaccinations are provided for any individual who meets state and federal requirements at the time of the appointment. Currently, eligibility varies by county. To determine eligibility, visit the department of health’s vaccine eligibility page. Vaccinations are provided by appointment only, while supplies last, through the online system at publix.com/covidvaccine.

March 25, 2021:

(Nashville): Health officials announced Nashville will move to the next phase of reopening on April 26, 2021 at 12:01 am. Some notable changes include:

• Indoor gathering limits will increases to 10 people without Health Department approval required.
• Restaurant and bar hours will be extended to 2:00 a.m. and capacity will be raised to 175 people per floor (with social distancing).
• Indoor dining party size will increase to 10 people, and outdoor dining party size will increase to 25.
• Large, low-risk indoor conventions can have up to 2,000 people with Health Department approval.
• Outdoor stadium capacity will be 33%.
• Weddings, receptions, and parties can increase to about 175, pending Health Department approval.
• Events and “transportainment” can go until 2:00 a.m., consistent with restaurant and bar hours, and host groups of up to 25.
• Salons and personal contact businesses can operate at full capacity with masks required.
• Pool capacity will increase to 75%, and saunas can open.
• Groups of up to 10 people will be allowed Museums and attractions.
• Gyms can operate at 75% capacity.
• Attendance at sports leagues and scholastic events will be 6 people per-participant and 33% of seating capacity with social distancing.

March 22, 2021:

(Nashville): Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced all Tennessee adults will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations no later than April 5, 2021. Tennesseans aged 55 and older and those in Phase 2 of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan are eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations effective March 18, 2021. Eligibility for those in Phase 3 of the Plan will run concurrently with age-based eligibility. Phase 3 includes:

• Residents and staff members of congregate living facilities (including college dormitories, group homes and shelters, and those in the correction system); and
• Grocery store workers who were not eligible for vaccination based on previous age- or risk-based categories.

March 18, 2021:

(Montgomery County): Beginning Friday, March 19, 2021, individuals in risk-based Phases 2a and 2b, along with those 55 and older, can begin registering for a COVID-19 vaccine in Montgomery County. Phase 2a includes residents employed in the following industries: social services, commercial agriculture, commercial food production, corrections staff not included in 1a1, and those in public transit. Phase 2b includes those in transportation, public infrastructure, telecommunications, and utilities or energy industries.

To register for a vaccination appointment online through the county health department, visit https://covid19.tn.gov/covid-19-vaccines/vaccine-phases/.

March 11, 2021:

Tennessee entered phase 1c of distribution, the largest of the state’s vaccine phases, on March 8, 2021. Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey said Tuesday in a news conference that upwards of 1.5 million Tennesseans became eligible in phase 1c. Piercey also announced additions to phase 1c, including:

• Permanent household members who are 16 or older living with pregnant women;
• People 16 or older with diagnosed diabetes;
• People 16 or older with Down Syndrome; and
• People 16 or older with progressive neuromuscular diseases like ALS, multiple sclerosis, or muscular dystrophy.

Find a vaccine provider by visiting vaccinefinder.org, or visit COVID19.tn.org to book through your county health department.

March 2, 2021:

Tennessee is now vaccinating residents in Phase 1a1, 1a2, and 1b and those age 65 and older. Tennesseans can visit Vaccinate.tn.gov to book an appointment when eligible. As of March 2, 2021, more than 200,000 appointments are available in the system for COVID-19 vaccinations across the state.

Tennessee will open COVID-19 vaccination eligibility to Tennesseans in Phase 1c populations on March 8. Phase 1c of Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan includes people with high-risk health conditions (including pregnancy) and parents and caregivers of children with high-risk health conditions. Tennesseans may find vaccination providers in their area by visiting VaccineFinder.org.

February 24, 2021:

Kroger Health announced February 24, 2021 that it has received a limited supply of the COVID-19 vaccine and will begin administering the vaccine in its 115 pharmacies across Tennessee. Appointments can be made by visiting Kroger.com/covidvaccine or by calling 866-211-5320.

February 16, 2021:

Starting February 22, 2021, people who are over 65 and teachers of all ages will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Other developments in Tennessee’s vaccination plan include:

• Sign language interpreters who work in healthcare have been moved to phase 1a2;
• Air traffic control and air cargo workers have been moved up to phase 1b;
• Pregnant women have been moved up to phase 1c; and
• overnight camp staff have been moved up to phase 3.

The State has provided county-by-county information regarding the vaccine and how to make an appointment.

February 10, 2021:

Tennessee is currently receiving around 100,000 vaccine doses a week. The health commissioner estimates the state will move to phase 1B, in which K-12 teachers and childcare workers are vaccinated, the week of February 22, 2021.

(Nashville): Nashville city and school leaders announced February 8, 2021 that hospitals will begin to vaccinate teachers and childcare workers in the coming days as the district returns to classrooms. The process of vaccinating teachers is expected to last 3-4 weeks and will be led by Vanderbilt University Medical Center and TriStar Health.

February 9, 2021:

(Nashville): Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in Tennessee are now offering COVID-19 vaccines to eligible Tennesseans. To check availability and schedule an appointment, visit the Walmart or Sam’s Club websites. Before scheduling an appointment, make sure to verify your eligibility through the Tennessee Department of Health’s website. Click here for a list of available locations.

February 4, 2021:

(Shelby County): As of February 4, 2021, COVID-19 vaccines are now available to those age 70 and up in Shelby County. Vaccinations continue for people in the 1a1 and 1a2 groups as well. First dose vaccination appointments are now available at the SWTCC Campus (located at 1234 Finley Road in Whitehaven, 2355 Appling City Cove) and Cherokee Health Systems sites in Frayser and Parkway village.

February 2, 2021:

Starting the week of February 1, 2021, Tennessee will see a weekly allocation of 93,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses, which is a 15 percent increase in the state’s previous weekly supply. Individuals 65 and older who are positive for COVID-19 and have certain chronic medical conditions may be eligible to receive monoclonal antibody treatment for their symptoms.

February 1, 2021:

On February 2, 2021, Tennessee will begin administering COVID-19 vaccinations to Tennesseans aged 70 and older based on increased allocations of COVID-19 vaccines to the state. Tennesseans aged 70 and up may begin registering for COVID-19 vaccinations through county health departments on February 2, 2021. Find information on phases eligible for vaccination in your county and, when eligible, register for vaccination through your county health department here.

January 28, 2021:

On January 28, 2021, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 75, which shortened the term and effective date of Executive Order 74, which implemented restrictions around who could participate in or attend school sporting events, from February 27, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time to January 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time. Governor Lee based his decision on data that shows that Tennessee has seen around a 60% decrease in cases and nearly a 40% decrease in hospitalizations.

(Knoxville): On January 28, 2021, the Knox County Health Department (KCHD) said that it will be offering a couple thousand more COVID-19 vaccine appointment for people 75 and older as well as those who qualify in the current vaccine rollout phases. Currently, Knox County is in Phase 1a1 and 1a2 of the Tennessee vaccination plan. This phase includes first responders, healthcare workers, mortuary workers, and dependent disabled adults. KCHD said people will be able to try and schedule an appointment online and by phone on Friday afternoon. The department will announce what time those appointments will open beforehand on Friday morning. This time the department is setting aside appointments specifically for people who call the public information line to schedule one at 865-215-5555, in order to ensure people without internet access will have a change at getting an appointment.

January 26, 2021:

On January 22, 2021, Tennessee added people living in households with medically fragile children to Phase 1c of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan. Phase 1c also includes people age 16 and older who have medical conditions that put them at high risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. This group is further defined in the updated plan and occurs earlier in Tennessee’s plan than in federal vaccination recommendations. Tennessee correctional officers and jailers have been added to Phase 1a1 of Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.

January 25, 2021:

On January 19, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 74, which encouraged Tennesseans to work from home when possible, encouraged places of worship, weddings, and funerals to continue to use virtual or online services, gave local education agencies the authority to permit school sponsored sporting events and activities as long as they are conducted in a manner consistent with COVID-19 related guidance and rules adopted by the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association, with respect to school-sponsored and other youth athletics, schools, organizers, and facilities shall not permit spectators to attend practices, games, or competition, but spectators may be present in the facility. Collegiate and professional sporting events must follow the rules of their respective institutions and governing bodies.

January 7, 2021:

On January 5 2020, Governor Lee announced a new digital tool that helps residents determine whether they are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. The tool allows users to opt-in to receive updates and notifications about their vaccine phase and provides risk-based and age-based phase information at the county level.

January 6, 2021:

On October 16, the Tennessee Department of Health released Tennessee’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan. Tennessee’s distribution plan includes tiered priority groups, following guidance from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine’s Framework for Equitable Allocation of COVID-19 Vaccine. Phase 1a, which began in mid-December, is subdivided into two parts (1a1 and 1a2). Phase 1a1 includes in-patient health care providers, adults unable to live independently, first responders with direct exposure to the public and staff members and residents of long-term care facilities. Phase 1a2 includes outpatient healthcare workers with direct patient exposure including mortuary services. As of January 6, all Tennessee counties are in either Phase 1a1 or 1a2.

December 28, 2020:

On December 22, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 73 extending the state of emergency. Executive Order 73 is effective December 29, 2020 and extends until February 27, 2021. Executive Order 73 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements.

December 22, 2020:

On December 20, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 70 placing additional restrictions on indoor public gatherings, including sporting events. Executive Order 70 limits indoor public gatherings to 10 people. Additionally, Order 70 limits the permitted attendees at practices and games to:

• Players’ parents or guardians and immediate household members;
• First Responders;
• Coaching and team personnel;
• School, game, and facility administrators;
• Athletics officials; and
• Media and athletic scouting personnel attending the event in their professional capacity.

Social distancing between persons from different households is required. Further information regarding sporting events can be found on the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s website. Executive Order 70 is effective immediately and will remain in effect through January 19, 2021.

November 2, 2020:

On October 30, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 67 extending the state of emergency until December 29, 2020. Executive Order 67 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements.

October 8, 2020:

Governor Lee and the Financial Stimulus Accountability Group announced $50 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds for the Supplemental Employer Recovery Grant (SERG) program. Applications are being accepted from October 7 to December 29, or until all funds are depleted. Notably, funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, awards are capped at $30,000, and 10 percent of all funds will be reserved for eligible diversity business enterprises. Awards will be given for reimbursable expenses incurred between May 1, 2020 and August 31, 2020. Expenses and business interruption costs eligible for reimbursement include but are not limited to:

• Costs to create social distancing measures
• Purchasing personal protective equipment for employees or customers
• Contactless equipment
• Payroll expenses
• Mortgage interest

For those interested in applying for reimbursement, the following information has been made available:

• SERG Application
• SERG Calculator
• SERG Definitions
• SERG FAQs
• SERG Webinars
• SERG Guidelines

Applicants can receive additional assistance by calling 1-833-740-1438 or emailing support@TNCARESACT.com

October 1, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): On September 30, 2020, the Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Order 12 for Nashville and Davidson County, which moves the area into Phase III of reopening. Order 12 lifts certain restrictions on businesses and facilities. The following are a few of the conditions modified by Order 12:

• Bars and restaurants can now welcome up to 100 patrons per floor, plus 100 more outside;
• large events can include up to 500 people or 30% of the venue's capacity with an approved safety plan from Metro Public Health Department; and
• “Transpotainment” vehicles will be allowed to permit up to 25 people, or half capacity, whichever is lower.

Further information on Phase III guidelines can be found here. Order 12 goes into effect at 12 a.m. Thursday, October 1 and will remain in effect until November 1 unless otherwise extended.

September 30, 2020:

On September 29, Governor Lee signed Executive Order 63 extending the state of emergency until October 30, 2020. Under Executive Order 63, restrictions on businesses and gathering sizes in the 89 counties with a state-run health department (previously a 50-person limit) have been removed. However, Executive Order 63 extends certain, targeted provisions of previous executive orders, including the authority of local governments to institute mask requirements. Among others, Executive Order 63 includes the following provisions:

• Persons with COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms are required to stay home and employers may not require or allow employees with COVID-19 or COVID-19 to work;
• Persons are urged to wear masks while in close proximity to others;
• Social distancing from those outside of the household is strongly suggested; and
• A framework for safely visiting nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

A full list of Executive Order 63’s provisions can be found here.

September 22, 2020:

(Knox County): On September 16, 2020, the Knox County Board of Health passed an amended resolution that orders restaurants and bars that serve alcohol to close at 11:00 p.m. The resolution goes into effect on September 18, 2020 and will last for 28 days. The board also passed a resolution to limit gatherings to ensure that no more than 25 persons congregate within the same 900 square feet unless they are residing the in the same household.

• Draft of Sept. 16 Curfew Regarding the Sale or Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages in Certain Establishments [PDF]
• Draft of Sept. 16 COVID-19 Social Group Transmission Suppression Regulation [PDF]
• Aug. 5 Revised COVID-19 Suppression in Bars Regulation [PDF]
• COVID-19 Suppression in Bars Regulation [PDF]
• Knox Co. Board of Health COVID-19 Community Education Recommendation [PDF]
• Governor Lee's Tennessee Pledge
• City & County COVID-19 Phased Reopening Plan

September 21, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Second Amended and Restated Order 11 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause in portions of phase III and extends hybrid phase II of the City and County Roadmap for Reopening Nashville. The Second Amended and Restated Order 11 is effective September 18, 2020 through September 30, 2020 and makes the following changes to the Amended and Restated Order 11:

• Section 4 was revised as follows:
  • Limited service restaurants and bars that hold an on-premise beer permit, but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC, may now serve up to 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code, so long as patrons are equally distributed throughout the indoor space.
  • Restaurants may now stay open until 11:00 p.m.
• Section 7 was revised to allow community, civic and sporting events, parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, private gatherings and similar activities to remain open until 11:00 p.m.
• Section 12 was revised to increase the capacity of so-called “transpotainment.” Pedicabs and pedal carriages may now operate at 50% capacity up to 15 people of the same party, may serve passengers until 11:00 p.m., and may allow alcohol to be consumed by seated persons.
• Section 13 was revised to allow sexually oriented businesses to remain open until 11 p.m. and to increase capacity to the lesser of 50 patrons per floor or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code on premises.

The Chief Medical Director of Nashville/Davidson County also issued the Third Amended and Restated Order 10 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause on portions of phase III and further modifies hybrid phase II of the City and County’s reopening plan. The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 applies only with respect to specified Downtown and Midtown areas and includes the following provisions:

• Continues prohibiting the consumption and possession of alcohol outside of licensed premises
• Increases the number of patrons at licensed Limited Service Restaurants to 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted, provided patrons are equally distributed throughout the entire amount of indoor space
• Continues to limit the number of patrons at licensed Restaurants to the lesser of 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code or 100 patrons per floor
• Limited Service Restaurants and Restaurants must continue to comply with numerous specified protocols, including but not limited to:
  • Distributing patrons equally through their space
  • Conforming with CDC and City guidance regarding mask wearing, hand sanitation, and other social distancing measures
  • No ancillary or participatory activities such as arcade games, darts, axe throwing, etc.
  • All patrons must be off premises and the premises closed between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
  • Bar counter areas may open at 50% or less of counter capacity and customers are not permitted to stand at the bar
  • Live music and entertainment continues to be permitted in accordance with issued guidelines, including that temperatures will be checked upon arrival, musicians will be staged at least 15 feet from patrons, no dance floor is permitted, and performers may not share equipment
• Increases the number of patrons permitted at bars having a beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC to no more than 50 patrons per floor and 50 patrons outdoors, not to exceed 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code, provided patrons are equally distributed throughout the entire amount of indoor space

The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 is effective September 18, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

September 16, 2020:

(Memphis): The City of Memphis is taking grant applications for the City of Memphis Small Business Stabilization Grant initiative now through December 23, 2020 or until funds are exhausted. The grants are intended to provide economic relief to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury. Grant funds may be used to pay costs of business interruption, working capital, business recovery challenges, and costs associated with safely reopening. Applications are available online.

September 2, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Officer of Nashville/Davidson County issued Amended and Restated Order 11 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause in portions of phase III and extends hybrid phase III of the City and County Roadmap for Reopening Nashville. The Amended and Restated Order 11 continues most of the provisions of Order 11, which was effective August 16, 2020, but makes the following changes:

• Section 2 was revised to allow on-site activities to reopen at hospitality, sports and entertainment, venues, businesses and facilities with an occupancy limit of 1,500 or greater based on TN’s Building and Fire code.
• Section 4 was revised as follows:
  • Limited service restaurants and bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC may increase the number of patrons on their premises to 50 patrons, so long as the number of patrons indoors is the lesser of 25 or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code. Limited service restaurants and bars are subject to the same conditions applicable to restaurants, such as adhering to CDC guidance and City directives regarding social distancing, mask wearing, limited party size, and limits on live music and entertainment.
  • Restaurant bar counters may open to the public at 50% or less of seated counter capacity, subject to compliance with CDC guidance on social distancing between parties.
  • Water fountains are permitted in limited service restaurants and restaurants.
• Section 7 was revised and expanded to allow more people to attend more types of public gatherings. Community, civic and sporting events, parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, private gatherings and similar activities are now permitted at 30% or less of building capacity based on Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code up to a maximum of 125 people. Sponsors or hosts must file a written plan with the Health Department and obtain advance written approval and must comply with substantially the same conditions required of restaurants.
• Section 12 was revised to permit reopening of so-called “transpotainment.” Pedicabs and pedal carriages may operate at 50% capacity up to 10 people, and larger vehicles may operate at 50% capacity up to a maximum of 25 people, if the vehicle is equipped with seats attached to the vehicle and all passengers remain seated, or a maximum of 10 passengers if any passenger is permitted to stand. Businesses subject to Section 12 must comply with specific conditions, including that the businesses are closed between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., no alcohol is to be consumed by any person in or on the vehicle, and no stops are permitted at any establishment that sells or serves food, beverages or alcohol.
• New Section 13 was added to permit sexually oriented establishments to reopen with the lesser of 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code on premises, and subject to conditions substantially similar to the conditions applicable to restaurants.

September 1, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director of Nashville/Davidson County issued the Second Amended and Restated Order 10 for Nashville and Davidson County, which continues the pause on portions of phase III and further modifies hybrid phase II of the City and County’s reopening plan. The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 applies only with respect to specified Downtown and Midtown areas and includes the following provisions:

• Prohibits the consumption and possession of alcohol outside of licensed premises
• Limits the number of patrons at licensed Limited Service Restaurants to 50 patrons on premises, with the lesser or 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted indoors
• Limits the number of patrons at licensed Restaurants to the lesser of 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code or 100 patrons per floor
• Limited Service Restaurants and Restaurants must also comply with numerous specified protocols, including but not limited to:
  • Distributing patrons equally through their space
  • Conforming with CDC and City guidance regarding mask wearing, hand sanitation, and other social distancing measures
  • No ancillary or participatory activities such as arcade games, darts, axe throwing, among others
  • All patrons must be off premises and the premises closed between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• Bar counter areas may open at 50% or less of counter capacity and customers are not permitted to stand at the bar
• Live music and entertainment is permitted in accordance with issued guidelines, including that temperatures will be checked upon arrival, musicians will be staged at least 15 feet from patrons, no dance floor is permitted, and performers may not share equipment
• Bars having a beer permit but not a license issued by the Tennessee ABC may operate so long as they do not exceed 50 patrons on the premises, with the lesser of 25 patrons or 50% of the maximum capacity authorized by Tennessee’s Building and Fire Code permitted indoors

The Second Amended and Restated Order 10 is effective September 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

August 31, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #59 which continues the state’s COVID-19 response and extends certain provisions of earlier Executive Orders 36, 38, 49, 50, 54 and 55 to allow ongoing regulatory flexibility, including but not limited to the following:

• Activation of the Tennessee Emergency Management Plan
• Out of state health care providers may practice in Tennessee and retired medical professionals may easily reenter the health care workforce
• Suspension of in person and live continuing education requirements for health care professionals
• Suspension of inspections of health care facilities, medical laboratories, mental health facilities, and substance abuse facilities
• Nursing graduates may practice under supervision without examination
• Pharmacists may process prescriptions remotely and each pharmacist may supervise more pharmacy technicians
• Degree holders in science fields may work as laboratory personnel under supervision
• Medical laboratory directors may monitor facilities remotely
• Pre-license, post-degree mental or behavioral health professionals may provide telehealth services under supervision
• Medical laboratory personnel may work remotely
• Suspension of certificate of need requirements for hospitals and nursing homes to the extent necessary to allow them to increase the number of licensed beds for the treatment of COVID-19 patients
• COVID-10 testing may occur at more medical laboratory facilities
• Telephone assessments for involuntary commitment cases are permitted
• Adjustment of TennCare policies to prevent coverage disruptions
• Designation and payment for certain nursing facilities as “COVID-19 Skilled Nursing Facilities/Units”
• Medicaid payments to “COVID-19 Nursing Facilities/Units”
• Expansion of telemedicine access and all licensed health care providers may practice telemedicine
• Temporary quarantine and isolation facilities may be constructed
• Deadlines for building code and building play inspections may be extended
• Time periods for completing securities registration requirements may be extended

Executive Order #59 also extends the certain deadlines, including the following:

• Health care licenses, certificates, and registrations are extended until August 31, 2020
• Driver licenses and photo IDs are extended until November 15, 2020
• Commercial driver licenses with medical cards are extended until September 29, 2020
• Enhanced handgun carp permits are extended through November 15, 2020

Executive Order #59 additionally extends provisions related to social distancing, urging individuals to wear masks in public places, restricting visitation to elderly-citizen and care related facilities, and encouraging use of restaurant carryout and delivery.

Executive Order #59 is effective August 29, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

Governor Bill Lee also signed Executive Order #60 to extend certain provisions relating to government proceedings. The Order permits governing bodies of public bodies, associations, non-profits, state agencies and departments to meet electronically rather than in person if the governing body determines that an electronic meeting is necessary to protect Tennesseans in light of the COVID-19 outbreak. Meetings conducted by electronic means on or before September 30, 2020 must be open and accessible to the public, and the governing body must make reasonable efforts to ensure that the public has live access, and if live access is not feasible then a clear audio or video recording of the meeting must be made available to the public as soon as practicable following the meeting, and in no event more than two business days after the meeting. Governing body meetings held electronically on or after October 1, 2020 must be accessible to the public by real-time, live audio or video access. In addition, a clear audio or video recorder of the meeting must be made available to the publico as soon as practicable following the meeting, and in no event more than two business days following the meeting.

Executive Order #60 is effective August 29, 2020 through October 28, 2020.

Lastly, Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #61 to extend authorization for remote notarization and witnessing of documents. Executive Order #61 is effective August 29, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

August 19, 2020:

On August 17, 2020, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed the "Tennessee COVID-19 Recovery Act" into law. The Act provides COVID-related liability protection to individuals and entities, including health care providers, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. Governor Lee also issued Executive Order No. 58 terminating Order No. 53 which provided limited COVID-related liability protection for health care providers and was rendered moot by enactment of the Tennessee COVID-19 Recovery Act.

August 17, 2020:

Governor Lee has expanded the Tennessee Small Business Relief Program to include additional businesses as long as they have less than $10 million in annual gross sales as shown on April sales tax returns and fall within an industry impacted by executive order limitations or a retail industry that experienced a 25% reduction in taxable sales in the month of April due to the public health emergency. The TN Department of Revenue will provide a full list of eligible businesses and instructions. The TN Department of Agriculture also has an economic support program for agricultural businesses and forestry businesses to help ensure stability of the food supply chain and agribusiness economy. Applications for funding through this program will be accepted through August 31.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director has issued Order 11 Phase Two with Modifications: Reopening. The order supersedes and replaces Amended and Restated Order 7 and Amendment 3 of Order 9. It expires at 11:59 p.m. on August 31, 2020. Most of the requirements are restated from previously orders. Changes are as follows:

• The instructions on limiting capacity and using the entire amount of occupancy space have been amended in most instances to require businesses to equally distribute patrons throughout the space.
• Private gatherings are explicitly added to the list prohibiting crowd sizes of more than 25 people in Section 1
• Food and beverage dining areas in retail and commercial businesses may operate at a maximum 50% capacity if they otherwise comply with the rules for food service businesses in Section 4.
• Limited service restaurants may operate at the lesser of 50% of max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises.
• An entity whose primary business is food service (except limited service restaurants) may operate at the lesser of 50% capacity or 100 patrons per floor.
• Bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but do not hold a license issued by the TN ABC may operate at the lesser of 50% of the max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises.
• Customers and guests at any food establishment shall remain seated, except when entering or exiting the premises, or walking to and from the restroom.
• No-touch beverage filling stations are allowed in food establishments.
• Limited service restaurants and other food service businesses cannot sell alcohol via take-out, window, or cub-side delivery between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
• Live music or entertainment is allowed, subject to the conditions set out in Exhibit B.
• Sport and recreational leagues and sports tournaments may resume, if participants and spectators adhere to crowd-side limitation and CDC guidance on social distancing.
• Guided tours or public programs are allowed to resume at 50% or less of regular capacity provided crowd-size limitations and CDC guidance is maintained at museums, cinemas, bowling alleys, miniature golf, driving ranges, go-carts, water parks, zip lines, paintball, ice or roller rinks, arcades, and similar attractions or participatory activities.
• Ancillary or participatory activities can also resume at the above businesses including arcade games, pool, amusement rides, or similar activities. Cleaning supplies should be provided alongside each activity for customer use.
• Social clubs serving food or beverage are limited to 50% capacity and shall comply with the conditions for food service businesses in Section 4.
• Overnight family camps shall allow only one family per cabin. Each family shall remain together for the duration of the camp having only incidental interaction with others.
• The new Section 7 provides that event, rental, and music venues, businesses and facilities except those in Section 2 with an occupancy limit of 1500+ may operate at 50% or less of capacity up to a maximum of 25 people. There are 18 requirements listed in the section. Those specific to these businesses are:
  • All customers shall be off premises and the premises closed to the public between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
  • Seating sufficient for one-half the total attendees shall be provided.
• Section 12 is added which restates the requirements and closures for transportation businesses that were previously in effect.
• Violations of Order 11 shall be subject to civil and criminal penalties.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director issued Amended and Restated Order 10 regarding geographic areas covering Downtown and Midtown. The Order is effective at 11:59 p.m. on August 16, 2020 and remains in effect through 11:59 on August 31, 2020, and makes the following amendments:

• Bars that hold an on-premise beer permit but do not hold a license issued by TN ABC and limited service restaurants may operate at the lesser of 50% max. capacity or 25 patrons on premises and must comply with the additional conditions listed.
• Entities whose primary business is food service (except limited service restaurants) may operate at the lesser of 50% of max. capacity or 100 patrons per floor.
• The order lists 22 requirements for the listed business in these districts to open. Most are the same as were previously expected of food service establishments or as listed in Order 11. Notable requirements include:
  • No party of more than six people shall be allowed.
  • Customers and guests shall remain seated, except when entering or exiting the premises, or walking to or from the restroom.
  • Bar counter areas must be closed to the public; the bar may be used to prepare and service orders from patrons seated elsewhere. No interaction between the public and bartender shall be allowed. No customer is allowed to stand or sit at the bar.
  • Live music or entertainment is allowed, subject to the conditions in Exhibit B.
  • Alcohol for on-premises consumption may be served only to seated customers.
  • No ancillary or participatory activities including, but not limited to, arcade games, pool, foosball, darts, axe throwing, amusement rides, laser tag, or similar activities shall be allowed.
  • All customers shall be off premises and the premise closed to the public between 10:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. CDT.
  • Customers shall not be allowed to remove alcoholic beverages from the premises.
  • Except when sold for consumption on premises or for off-premises delivery, the sale of alcohol is prohibited.

August 3, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order No.55 which amends prior executive orders addressing COVID-19 as follows:

• Extends Exec. Order No. 54 providing local government authority regarding face coverings through August 29;
• Extends Exec. Order No. 53 providing limited COVID-10 liability protection for hospitals and health care providers for 30 days;
• Incorporates federal waivers concerning commercial driver licenses;
• Waives Alcoholic Beverage Commission fees for outdoor expansion of restaurants due to COVID-19;
• Establishes COVID-19 specific skilled nursing facilities and provides for Medicaid payments to these facilities; and
• Permits licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselors to practice telemedicine to the same extent as other licensed health care providers.

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director of Health issued Order 7 Amended and Restated and Order 9 Amendment 3, both of which remain in effect through 11:59PM on August 16, 2020.

• The amended and restated Order 7 continues the pause on portions of Phase 3 and further extends a hybrid Phase 2 of the City and County’s reopening plan.
• Amendment 3 to Order 9 makes the following changes and clarifications:
  • Clarifies time restrictions on alcohol sales for applicable businesses from no sales of alcohol after 10:00PM to no sales of alcohol between 10:00PM and 5:00AM.
  • Clarifies that for limited service restaurants and for bars that hold an on-premise beer permit consumption of alcohol on premises is prohibited at any time.
  • Clarifies that for entities whose primary business is food service, all customers shall be off premises and the premise closed to the public between 10:00PM and 5:00AM CST.
  • Provides that passenger vehicles for hire designed to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) or that have a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more shall close to the public, with exceptions for Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority services and intercity carriers of passengers operating under authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that are members of the nationwide intercity bus network and that provide regularly scheduled bus service for the general public.

(Knox County): The Knox County Board of Health issued Regulation No. 2020-3, which remains in effect until 12:01am August 20, 2020 and may be extended. Bars shall suspend offering food and drink, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption until further notice. Sales for off-premise consumption are allowed. A bar is an establishment that offers alcoholic beverages for on-premise or off-premise consumption and that generates 50% or more if its revenue through alcohol sales. Retirement homes and nursing facilities, places of worship, and government-run establishments are exempt.

July 27, 2020:

(Shelby County): The Shelby County Health Department issued Health Order and Directive No. 9 that supersedes all previous orders and takes effect July 26, 2020 at midnight. Directive No. 9 continues most of the prior safety measures, but makes some changes and additions, including the following:

• Schools have been removed from the list of business and services that must remain closed and are now under the same guidance as childcare.
• Festivals, fairs, parades, and large-scale events may be permitted if the Department has approved a site specific event plan.
• Beer/wine/liquor production facilities (non-restaurants) may continue production but on-premises consumption of alcohol cannot occur.
• Curb-side, drive-thru, or delivery services may continue for bars, restaurants, and clubs, but sale of alcoholic beverages must end at 10:00pm.
• Colleges and universities may open, but retain the sole responsibility in making decisions on providing instruction to students and protecting the health and safety of campus members. They should consult guidance issued by OSHA, the CDC, the State of Tennessee, and the American College of Health Association.
• All services and business must report to the Department any employee who has had contact with a person who tests or has tested positive.
• If an employee tests positive, the area where the employee worked should be closed for cleaning per CDC and OSHA guidelines.
• Live music safety measures now include seating and spacing modifications to increase the distance between any observer and any performer, installation of barriers or alternative placement of performers where necessary to minimize aerosolized particles from performers, maximize physical spacing between performers on-stage by at least 6 feet unless barriers are used, and dancing should not be allowed unless outdoors and dancers maintain 6 feet separation from those not in the same household.
• The following restrictions apply to full service restaurants, in addition to state guidelines:
  • No standing room/seating at a physical bar.
  • Alcohol may only be served with food to customers seated at a table.
  • Food service for each table is limited to 2 hours.
  • All dine-in food service must end at 10:00pm, and guests must leave at 10:30pm.
  • Music must be kept at a level that does not cause patrons to raise their voices to be heard.
  • Dancing is not permitted.
  • Club houses at golf courses, tennis courts, and other facilities that are full-service restaurants must comply with the requirements.
  • If 50% or less of the gross annual revenue comes from the sale of prepared food, restaurants should be prepared to provide sales numbers and a food affidavit by the owner.

July 23, 2020:

(Nashville/Davidson County): The Chief Medical Director signed Amendment 2 to Order 9, Phase Two with Modifications: Reopening. This amendment pauses portions of phase three and extends a hybrid phase two reopening. Restrictions have changed for the following businesses:

• Restaurants and bars may only offer curb-side or off-premise dining until July 31, 2020, and the sale of alcohol is prohibited after 10:00 p.m.
• Pedicabs and pedal carriages, limousines, and vehicles for hire are closed to the public.

Order 9 as amended and Amended, which adopted Restated Order 7 from the Chief Medical Director, remains unchanged and in effect. The Order is effective at 12:01a.m. CDT on July 24, 2020 and remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. on July 31, 2020.

July 22, 2020:

(Memphis): The City of Memphis announced guidelines for expanding outdoor dining for restaurants currently permitted to operate according to the Shelby County Health Directive. Temporary expansion is possible in two ways: (1) onto private property adjacent to the restaurant’s structure, such as a parking lot; and (2) onto public right-of-way such as a sidewalk or street. Restaurants should refer to the guidelines for additional criteria that must be met for expansion.

July 15, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective July 14, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has issued Executive Order No. 34-2020 extending the State of Emergency for another 7 days.

July 13, 2020:

The Department of Revenue has begun to issue payments under the Tennessee Business Relief Program. Eligibility notifications are currently being sent out to businesses via mail or email.

(Knoxville and Knox County): To help support restaurants, the City of Knoxville is now offering permits for the temporary expansion of restaurants into public and private outdoor spaces. Restaurants may apply to use even unconventional spaces, including parking areas, and any unused private or public property. Apply for your temporary permit here.

July 8, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County Health Order and Directive No. 8, effective July 8, 2020, has imposed further requirements and curfews on businesses. Most notably, bars will no longer be allowed to operate until further notice, and restaurants must close by 10:00 p.m.

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has also issued Executive Order No. 33-2020 extending the state of emergency for another 7 days through July 14, 2020.

July 7, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County’s Health Order and Directive Regarding Masks, issued July 3, 2020, is requiring that businesses post signage at all public entrances stating to the effect:

“Dear Customers/Visitors,

Pursuant to Order of the Shelby County Health Officer for Shelby County, Tennessee, you are REQUIRED to wear a cloth face covering or mask while in this business/facility. This will help PROTECT our EMPLOYEES and EACH OTHER.”

July 6, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order No. 53, granting healthcare providers limited liability protection for COVID-related injuries except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct until July 31, 2020. This order is made to facilitate accessibility of healthcare services for all in the midst of the pandemic.

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): On Friday, July 3, 2020, Nashville and Davidson County returned to a modified version of Phase Two of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville plan. Guidance highlights include:

• Retail and commercial businesses may operate at 75% capacity
• Gyms and high-touch businesses like hair and nail salons may operate at 50% capacity
• Restaurants may operate at 50% capacity, though bars must remain closed
• Live entertainment is permitted in accordance with regulations
• Public recreational facilities such as parks and sporting courts remain open
• Gatherings must remain at 25 people or less

(Knox County): Knox County has now aligned its reopening efforts with the State of Tennessee by adopting the Tennessee Pledge Plan. This change will affect most industries, and businesses should consult sector specific guidance on the Knox County Health Department Website.

July 1, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective June 30, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has issued Executive Order No. 32-2020 extending the State of Emergency for another 7 days.

(Knox County): Effective July 1, 2020, Knox County as now aligned its reopening efforts with the State of Tennessee by adopting the Tennessee Pledge Plan. This change will affect most industries, and businesses should consult sector specific guidance on the Knox County Health Department Website.

June 29, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued three Executive Orders, effective June 29, 2020, extending previously issued COVID-19-related orders through August 29, 2020.

• Executive Order #50 extends Executive Orders #36 and #38, which declared a state of emergency, offered more flexible regulations in regards to businesses offering healthcare-related services, and gave general guidance to other various businesses
• Executive Order #51 extends Executive Order #16, allowing governing bodies to continue to meet electronically
• Executive Order #52 extends Executive Order #26, allowing for continued remote notarization and witnessing of documents

June 25, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee reminds Tennessee’s 28,000+ small businesses that funding from the Tennessee Business Relief Program, announced earlier this month, is soon to come. While no application is necessary to claim funds, Gov. Lee urges businesses to make sure all of their information is up-to-date with the Department of Revenue, as the Department will be using available tax data to determine eligibility. The Department has not yet released an official date for when they will begin to disburse funds.

June 23, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County has issued Health Directive No. 7, effective June 22, 2020, providing further guidance to currently operating businesses. Notable updates include:

• Community events, such as festivals and sporting events, of fewer than 500 people may now submit a proposed operating plan to the Shelby County Health Department for approval
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities may now allow limited visitation in accordance with outlined safety precautions
• Building occupancy maximums outlined in the plan should be implemented based on the occupancy set by the Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement

This Health Directive also applies to the City of Memphis in accordance with Order No. 30-2020.

June 22, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): In the wake of Shelby County’s postponement of their Back-to-Business Plan Phase 3, Shelby County has issued Health Directive No. 6, effective June 15, 2020, providing further safety guidance to individuals and already operating business owners.

(Knox County): Effective July 1, 2020, Knox County will shift away from its local reopening plan and adopt the guidelines of Tennessee’s state-wide Tennessee Pledge program. This will allow businesses in most industries to resume operations with increased precautions and work from home policies where possible. Until that time, Knox County will continue to operate under Phase 2 of the Knox County & City of Knoxville community reopening plan.

June 18, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): The City of Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 3 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, June 22, 2020. Effective June 22, retail stores, commercial businesses, and restaurants may continue to operate at 75% capacity. Restaurants may now reopen their bar areas at 50% of seated capacity, though no standing at bars will be allowed. Gyms and exercise facilities, museums, and small venue entertainment may continue to operate at 50% capacity. Higher-touch entertainment businesses such as bars, clubs, event venues, and tour businesses may now begin to operate at 50% capacity. For bar areas, this capacity must be assessed based on available bar seating. Additionally, small music venues and event spaces must cap their event size at 250 people. Live music and entertainment will be allowed in accordance with public health orders. Gatherings are recommended to continue observing a 25-person maximum. Residents of 65+ and high-risk individuals are recommended to remain at home to the extent possible, masks continue to be required in public, and individuals that are able to work from home should continue to do so whenever possible.

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective June 16, 2020, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland issued Order No. 30-2020 adopting the current and any future Health Directives issued by Shelby County. On Monday, June 15th, 2020, Shelby County officials further postponed the move to Phase 3 of the Back-to-Business plan expected to happen that day.

(Knoxville and Knox County): Effective May 26th, 2020, the City of Knoxville and Knox County entered Phase 2 of their community reopening plan. Phase 2 builds on Phase 1, and all industries open during Phase 1 may continue to operate. Food truck parks, drinking only establishments, and businesses allowing onsite food and beverage consumption may now be opened for seating-only service. Bar and counter seating, and self-service food and drink services continue to be disallowed. Outdoor recreation spaces, libraries, and indoor/outdoor event venues may now operate at a maximum capacity of 50 people. Personal care services that require removal of face covering, personal training facilities, and senior centers remain closed. Phase 2 also increases the maximum number of people allowed at social gatherings to 50 people.

May 26, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #38 which encourages Tennesseans to return to work while complying with the Economic Recovery Group’s Guidelines. Executive Order #38 includes the following provisions that:

• Continue to promote social distancing and urge people to wear masks in public.
• Encourage businesses and organizations to return to work while allowing employees to continue working from home.
• Permit groups of up to 50 people to participate in social and recreational activities—this limit does not apply to places of worship, weddings, funerals and related events, and it does not preclude more than 50 people from gathering in a single venue so long as they are in smaller groups that maintain appropriate social distance.
• Allow bars to reopen in accordance with restaurant guidelines.
• Continue to prohibit contact sporting events and activities, except that collegiate and professional sporting events and activities are permitted in accordance with the rules of their respective governing bodies.
• Direct senior centers, nursing homes and similar such facilities for the elderly to remain closed to visitors, unless in the discretion of the facility the visit involves critical assistance for the resident, is to a resident receiving end of life care, or may be accomplished without unreasonable risk to other residents or staff.
• Continue to allow take-out alcohol sales by restaurants so as to encourage carry out and delivery orders.

Executive Order #38 is repeals Executive Orders #30, #33, and #35, and went into effect May 22, 2020.

May 21, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 2 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, May 25, 2020. On May 25, retail stores, commercial businesses, and restaurants may reopen at 75% capacity. Restaurant and bars must remain closed, but live entertainment with no more than 2 performers at a time is permitted with proper social distancing. Gyms, recreation facilities, museums, nail salons, hair salons, and tattoo parlors may open at half capacity. Socially driven businesses such as bars and clubs remain closed. Gatherings of up to 25 people are permitted. Residents 65 and older and high risk individuals should remain at home. All residents should wear masks in public, and those with the ability to work from home should continue to do so.

May 19, 2020:

(City of Memphis and Shelby County): Effective May 18, 2020 the City of Memphis and Shelby County moved into Phase II of their Back-to-Business Plan. The move to Phase II allows gatherings of up to 50 people so long as they observe social distancing and wear masks, increases capacity for libraries and gyms from 25% to 50%, and allows recreation facilities such as bowling alleys, arcades, and dance classes to open at 50% capacity so long as people remain in groups of less than 10 people and avoid contact with individuals from other groups. Contact sport facilities, car washes, nail salons, tattoo parlors, and swimming pools are also allowed to open in conformance with industry-specific protocols.

May 12, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued two executive orders. Executive Order #36 extends and consolidates provisions from several previous Executive Orders to continue the suspension of a very wide range of laws in response to the COVID-19 emergency, including provisions relating to health care services, prescription processing, laboratory services, emergency services, transportation services, unemployment benefits, financial services, and child care services. Executive Order #36 also extends the prohibition against price gauging through June 1, 2020, and expiration dates for many licenses and inspections are extended or suspended. Executive Order #36 is effective May 18, 2020 through June 30, 2020.

Executive Order #37 extends the provisions of Executive Order #36, to continue allowing remote notarization and witnessing of documents. Executive Order #37 is effective May 18, 2020 through June 29, 2020.

May 8, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #35 which amended Executive Order #30 to allow small-group, non-contact entertainment, recreational and other gathering venues to open on May 8, 2020, so long as people are in groups of less than 10 and people maintain at least 6 feet of separation from other people or groups of less than 10 outside of their own group. Examples of venues that may be permitted to open include bowling alleys, climbing gyms, water sports, golf driving ranges and dance classes. Bars, night clubs, live performance venues, theaters, amusement parks, and other venues where operation is likely to result in people being in groups of 10 or more or coming into close proximity to other people outside their household or small group of less than 10 people must remain closed. All businesses that reopen under Executive Order #35 should comply with the Economic Recovery Group’s Non-contact Recreation Guidelines.

May 7, 2020:

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Nashville and Davidson County will enter Phase 1 of the Roadmap for Reopening Nashville on Monday, May 11, 2020. On May 11, retail stores, restaurants, and commercial businesses may reopen at half capacity, all residents should wear masks in public, and no gatherings of more than 10 people are permitted. Residents 65 and over should remain at home and those having the ability to work at home should continue to do so.

(City of Memphis): Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland issued two Orders continuing Phase 1 of the City’s reopening plan and the COVID-19 state of emergency. Order No. 13-2020 amends and replaces Order No. 12-2020, and includes the following:

• Individuals should stay home except when engaging in necessary activities and should minimize in person contact outside of those in their household
• Individuals must comply with Social Distancing Requirements and are encouraged to wear masks when in public
• Gatherings of 10 or more remain prohibited
• Phase I businesses are allowed to reopen, and they must
  • Operate in accordance with the COVID-19 Compliant Protocol
  • Comply with occupancy limits
  • Practice social distancing
• Certain businesses remain closed, including close contact personal services, entertainment and performance venues, contact sport facilities, and public playground equipment
• Big box grocery, pharmacy and hardware stores must provide at least one hour of access for vulnerable populations, i.e., those 55 and older, pregnant or with serious underlying medical conditions
• Medical and dental procedures and operation of places of worship are subject to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Orders

Mayor Strickland also issued Order No. 14-2020 extending his declaration of a state of emergency relating to COVID-19 an additional 7 days, through May 11, 2020.

Both Orders are effective May 5, 2020.

May 6, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #33 amending Executive Order #30 to permit close contact businesses to open in accordance with the Close Contact Business Guidelines. Affected businesses include but are not limited to barber shops, hair salons, nail salons, tanning salons, and tattoos services.

Governor Lee also issued Executive Order #34 which extends the provisions of Executive Order #16 to allow governing bodies to continue to meet electronically regarding essential business through June 30, 2020, provided they meet certain requirements to ensure public access, transparency and openness.

Both Executive Orders #33 and #34 are effective May 6, 2020.

May 3, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #32 which amends Executive Order #15 to:

• Extend the prohibition on price gouging until May 18, 2020
• Extend the deadline for TNIvestco annual audited financial statements until July 31, 2020
• Authorize free copies of business entity filings for those seeking state or federal financial relief until August 1, 2020
• Allow discretion to utilize the Tennessee National Guard to assist in the operation and security of state penitentiaries during the COVID-19 emergency
• Permit remote shareholder meetings provided certain requirements are met, including the ability of shareholders to submit questions, read or hear the proceedings, be deemed present, and vote
• Suspend certain requirements regarding service level requirements of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Facilitate the provision of, and payment for, physical, occupational and speech therapy services through telemedicine

(Knoxville and Knox County) Knoxville and Knox County began their gradual reopening of business May 1, 2020. Knoxville and Knox County have adopted a three phase approach, each phase will last at least 28 days.

(Memphis and Shelby County) Shelby County, the City of Memphis and surrounding municipalities announced that they will begin phase 1 of their Back to Business framework on Monday, May 4, 2020.

(Nashville and Davidson County) The Safer at Home Order for Nashville and Davidson County is in effect through May 8, 2020. On May 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Director for Nashville and Davidson County issued Order 4, directing citizens to wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover their nose and mouth whenever in a community setting. The Order notes that face coverings or masks are not a substitute for social distancing and advises that they should not be placed on children under the age of 2 or when it would be contrary to the wearer’s health or safety. The Order also directs businesses to post signage at all public entrances advising them of the need to wear masks. Order 4 is effective May 1 through May 31, 2020.

May 1, 2020:

(Memphis and Shelby County): Shelby County, the City of Memphis and surrounding municipalities announced that they will being phase 1 of their Back to Business framework on Monday, May 4, 2020.

(Nashville and Davidson County): The Safer at Home Order for Nashville and Davidson County extends through May 8, 2020. On May 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Director for Nashville and Davidson County issued Order 4, directing citizens to wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover their nose and mouth whenever in a community setting. The Order notes that face coverings or masks are not a substitute for social distancing and advises that they should not be placed on children under the age of 2 or when it would be contrary to the wearer’s health or safety. The Order also directs businesses to post conspicuous signage at all public entrances advising them of the need to wear masks. Order 4 is effective May 1 through May 31, 2020.

(Knoxville and Knox County): Knoxville and Knox County are beginning their gradual reopening of business May 1, 2020. Knoxville and Knox County have adopted a three phase approach, each phase will last at least 28 days.

April 30, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #31 which continues the bar on non-emergency dental or oral procedures, including hygiene visits, cosmetic procedures, and other elective procedures, through May 5, 2020. The bar on non-emergency dental procedures was first issued by Executive Order #18, effective March 24, 2020 and continued through April 30, 2020 by Executive Order #25.

Tennessee’s Economic Recovery Group (ERG) released guidance for reopening close contact services on May 6.

April 29, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #30, which repeals Tennessee’s Stay at Home order and establishes guidelines for returning to work in Tennessee. Among its provisions, the Order:

• Encourages Tennesseans to return to work, while also urging employers to enable employees to work remotely from home
• Limits social gatherings of 10 or more people, but specifically excludes religious services, weddings and funerals from this limitation
• Urges people to wear face coverings when in public places
• Instructs people to take special care to protect vulnerable
• Maintains restriction on visitors to nursing homes and similar facilities

Businesses that provide close contact personal services (such as barber shops, hair salons and tattoo parlors) and entertainment venues (such as bars, night clubs and live performance venues) remain closed until further notice. The Order urges businesses that are reopening to comply with guidance issued by Tennessee’s Economic Recover Group (ERG) and the Health Guidelines set forth in the Order.

Finally, the Order precludes local orders, except in six metropolitan counties that have their own health department (Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, Madison, Shelby and Sullivan counties), and no local orders are permitted regarding provision of medical and dental procedures.

Executive Order #30 is effective April 29 through May 29, 2020, and its expressly supersedes and repeals Executive Order #17, Executive Order #21, Executive Order #22, Executive Order #23, Executive Order #27, and Executive Order #29.

April 28, 2020:

Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge lays out his plan for reopening Tennessee businesses when the statewide Stay At Home Order expires on April 30. Restaurants were permitted to open at half capacity effective April 27, 2020 and retail stores are permitted to open at half capacity effective April 29, 2020 so long as they comply with the ERG’s retail guidelines. On April 28, Tennessee’s Economy Recovery Group (ERG) released guidance for safely reopening gyms and exercise facilities effective May 30, 2020. Note, the Tennessee Pledge does not apply to three metropolitan counties in Tennessee (Shelby, Davidson and Knox), which developed their own phased plans for reopening.

April 27, 2020:

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke announced on Twitter that the city would reopen restaurants in accordance with Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Order #29. Chattanooga is located in Hamilton County, which announced last week that it would reopen in accordance with Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge.

Shelby County and the City of Memphis, Tennessee announced their Back to Business Framework, a three phase approach for reopening. The plan applies to Shelby County, the City of Memphis and six surrounding municipalities. The Back to Business Framework will take effect following the expiration of the current Safer at Home orders. Shelby County’s Safer at Home order expires on April 30, 2020, and Memphis’s Safer at Home order extends through May 5, 2020.

Knox County and Knoxville leaders announced their reopening plan, which calls for a three phase reopening of business beginning on May 1, 2020.

April 26, 2020:

Tennessee’s Stay At Home Order expires on April 30. Governor Lee’s Tennessee Pledge lays out his plan for reopening Tennessee businesses. On April 24, 2020, Governor Lee issued Executive Order #29, which amends prior Executive Orders to allow restaurants to reopen for on-siting dining effective April 27, 2020. Executive Order #29 requires restaurants to operate in accordance with the restaurant guidelines issued by Governor Lee’s Economic Recovery Group (ERG). Executive Order #29 applies unless a local county health department in one of six counties independently prohibits or otherwise regulates the operation of restaurants in its county. The six counties (Shelby, Madison, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox and Sullivan counties) are cooperating with the ERG to plan their unique operating strategies. The Mayors of Tennessee’s largest cities, Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga, formed the Tennessee Major Metros Economic Restart Task Force to plan and coordinate the restoration of business in their cities.

(Memphis): Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland’s Safer at Home order extends through May 5, 2020, however Mayor Strickland stated that his plan for reopening with conditions will be announced early the week of April 27, 2020.

Davidson County (Nashville): Nashville’s Safer at Home order expired on April 24, 2020 and Nashville Mayor Jim Cooper announced the city’s Roadmap for Reopening. The Roadmap for Reopening Nashville establishes four phases of reopening based on progressive progress and improvement in metrics related to new cases of COVID-19, testing capacity and results, public health capacity to investigate and monitor cases, and health care system capacity. Phase 1 is currently in effect, and requires all residents to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. Restaurants and bars remain closed except for curbside service and takeout, retail stores, nail and hair salon, gyms, playgrounds and sports venues remain closed. Healthcare and dental services may begin providing routine and elective care beginning on April 30, 2020 for individuals less than age 70. Phase 2 will go into effect when there is positive improvement/stability in metrics for 14 days.

Knox County (Knoxville): Knox County continues to operate under Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Stay At Home Order which expires on April 30, 2020. Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs and Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon issued a joint statement on April 24, 2020 announcing that they will make a further announcement regarding plans to reopen on Monday, April 27, 2020.

April 22, 2020:

The Stay At Home Order in Tennessee expires on April 30. On April 21, Governor Lee announced a plan for re-opening the economy in 89 of the state’s 95 counties. A phased reopening is set to begin on April 27, to reopen certain non-essential businesses such as retail, restaurants and close contact services. Tennessee’s Economic Recovery Group is working with officials from the remaining six counties (Shelby, Madison, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox and Sullivan) which comprise the state’s major metropolitan areas to plan their unique reopening strategies. Further and up to date information on all orders in place in Tennessee can be accessed here.

April 15, 2020:

Governor Lee announced that free COVID-19 testing will be available for any Tennessean regardless of traditional symptoms. Expanded testing will begin this weekend, April 18-19 with the Tennessee National Guard establishing 15 drive through testing sites across the state. Drive through test sites will also be available April 25-26 and May 2-3.

April 14, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 27 which extends the social distancing and stay at home requirements of prior Executive Orders until April 30, 2020. Executive Order 27 orders the extension of Executive Order 17 , Executive Order 21, Executive Order 22 and Executive Order 23, which collectively require Tennesseans to stay at home unless engaged in Essential Activity or Essential Services, and closed non-essential businesses.

April 9, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order #25 which is effective April 9 through 30, 2020. The Order amends and supersedes Executive Order #18 and requires health care facilities and providers to postpone elective and non-urgent surgical and invasive procedures. It defines elective and non-urgent procedures as “procedures that can be delayed until the expiration of this Order because they are not required to provide life-sustaining treatment, to prevent death or risk of substantial impairment of a major bodily function, or to prevent rapid deterioration or serious adverse consequences to a patient’s physical condition” as reasonably determined by a licensed medical provider. The Order additionally:

• Requires health care facilities and providers to limit attendance in the rooms where surgeries and invasive procedures are being performed to essential personnel
• Encourages non-hospital health care providers not impacted by the Order to provide necessary personal protective equipment to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency
• Reiterates the directive of Executive Order 18 prohibiting dental providers from performing non-emergency dental or oral procedures
• Suspends any state or local law, order, rule or regulation that would limit the application of the Order

April 3, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order #23 which requires Tennesseans to stay at home except when engaging in Essential Activity. The Governor issued Executive Order 23 in response to information indicating that citizens were not heeding Executive Order #22, which simply urged citizens to stay home except to engage in Essential Activities. All other provisions of Executive Order 22 remain in effect, including the definitions of Essential Activity and Essential Services.

Governor Lee also issued Executive Order #24 which amends Executive Order #15 to extend and broaden suspension of certain laws and regulations across a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:

• Use of telemedicine services for treatment of diagnosed behavioral or mental health conditions
• Price gouging prohibitions (extended through April 18, 2020)
• Suspension of the expiration of marriage licenses until June 30, 2020
• Extension of the deadline for filing applications for tax relief and tax freeze until July 1, 2020
• Easing of requirements for previously certified law enforcement officers to work full-time
• Extension of the deadline for filing professional privilege taxes until July 1, 2020

Executive Order #24 is effective until May 18, 2020.

March 31, 2020:

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 21 and Executive Order 22.

Executive Order 21 extends the effective date of Executive Order 17 through April 14, 2020 and adds additional businesses and venues that should not be open to the public, including but not limited to barber shops and hair salons, spas, tattoo parlors, night clubs, theaters and children’s indoor play areas.

Executive Order 22 implements Safer at Home provisions, directing citizens to stay at home unless engaging in Essential Activities or Services and ordering the closure of non-essential businesses for public use. Critical infrastructure remains operational and government entities will continue to provide services. Orders 17 and 21 remain in full force and effect. Order 22 is effective April 1 and remains in effect through April 14.

Essential Activities include, but are not limited to:

• Activities essential to a person’s health and safety
• Obtaining necessary services or supplies
• Providing or receiving delivery or curbside carry out
• Engaging in outdoor activity, but not including congregating or playing on playgrounds
• Caring for or visiting a family member or friend
• Visiting a place of worship or attending a wedding or funeral
• Engaging in Essential Travel

Essential Travel includes:

• Travel related to Essential Activity
• Travel related to Essential Services
• Travel to care for vulnerable persons
• Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for distance learning or related services
• Travel to or from the State of Tennessee
• Travel required by law, law enforcement or court order

Essential Services include:

1. Personnel identified by the Department of Homeland Security in its Advisory Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response
2. Health Care and Public Health Operations
3. Human Services Operations
4. Essential Infrastructure Operations
5. Essential Government Functions
6. Food and Medicine Stores
7. Food and Beverage Production and Agriculture
8. Organizations the Provide Charitable and Social Services
9. Religious and Ceremonial Functions
10. Media
11. Gas Stations and Businesses needed for Transportation
12. Financial Institutions and Insurance Entities
13. Hardware and Supply Stores
14. Critical Trades
15. Mail, Post, Shipping, Logistics, Delivery, and Pick-Up Services
16. Educational Institutions
17. Laundry Services
18. Restaurants for Off-Premises Consumption
19. Supplies to Work from Home
20. Supplies for Essential Businesses and Operations
21. Transportation
22. Home-based Care and Services
23. Residential Facilities and Shelters
24. Professional Services
25. Manufacturing, Distribution and Supply Chain for Critical Products and Industries
26. Hotels and Motels
27. Funeral Services
28. Any business listed as an Essential Activity as defined in Executive Order 22
29. Any other business or organization that operates at all times with 10 or fewer people accessing the premises at any time
30. The minimum necessary activities required to maintain any business or organization whether otherwise essential or not

March 27, 2020:

Governor Lee issued Executive Order #20 which suspended certain licensing and oversight requirements for health care facilities and providers, including rules relating to initial licensure fees and notarization requirements, continuing education requirements, inspections and investigations related to complaints and surveys, ratio of pharmacy technicians and pharmacists, on-site oversight of laboratories by medical laboratory directors, and telehealth services.

March 26, 2020:

(City of Nashville): On March 22, The City of Nashville’s Chief Medical Director issued Order 3, Safer at Home, urging citizens to stay home, prohibiting gatherings of ten or more people, and directing all non-essential businesses to close their facilities. The Order is effective for 14 days, and may be extended.

The Order does not apply to activities necessary to maintain continuity of operations of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified by the Department of Homeland Security in CISA guidelines. Other essential services are also excluded, including but not limited to:

• Federal and state offices and services, and private companies performing under federal, state or local government contracts
• Essential government functions such as law enforcement, public transportation and government programs and services
• Media, communication and telecommunication services
• Grocery and beverage stores, and other businesses that support food supply
• Health care services, including health information technology, staffing and supplies
• Sanitation and waste removal
• Banks, real property services, and legal services
• Construction, product and parcel transportation, and essential building maintenance and security

March 25, 2020:

(City of Memphis): Mayor Strickland for the City of Memphis issues a Safer at Home Executive Order through April 7 calling all residents to stay at home and closing all non-essential businesses.

The following municipalities of Memphis issued similar orders calling all residents to stay at home and closing all non-essential businesses.

• Arlington order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.
• Bartlett order effective midnight March 24 until midnight March 31 unless otherwise extended.
• Collierville order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until further notice.
• Germantown order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until further notice.
• Lakeland order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.
• Millington order effective March 24 at 6 p.m. until March 28 unless otherwise extended.

Governor Lee declined to issue a statewide shelter in place order

March 23, 2020:

Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 18 limiting performance of non-essential medical and dental procedures, including any procedure that is not necessary to address a medical emergency or preserve a patient’s health and safety. Hospitals and free standing surgical outpatient facilities were directed to postpone at minimum the following procedures, except where postponement would significantly impact the health, safety or welfare of the patient:

• Joint replacement
• Bariatric surgery
• Cosmetic surgery
• Non-emergency dental and oral procedures

Procedures excluded from postponement include:

• Surgeries related to advanced cardiovascular disease
• Oncological testing and treatment
• Pregnancy related care
• Organ transplants
• Dialysis
• Emergency or trauma related procedures
• Emergency dental and oral treatment

Executive Order 18 further requests non-hospital providers to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) that is not required for emergency care to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency by delivering it to the nearest open Tennessee National Guard Armory between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Executive Order 18 is effective March 24 through April 12.

(City of Nashville and Davidson County): Pursuant to the Declaration of Public Health Emergency adopted by the Board of Health for city of Nashville and Davidson County on March 15, 2020, the Chief Medical Director of the Metro Public Health Department issued a “Safer At Home Order.”

This Order requires all individuals living in Nashville and Davidson County to stay at home except for essential activities and essential government functions. The Order also does not apply to the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified in the CISA Guidelines. Essential Activities include federal and state offices and services, essential Nashville government functions including law enforcement, stores that sell groceries, essential healthcare and public health operations, sanitation and waste removal services, utilities services, pharmacy and medical supply businesses, gas stations, legal and judicial services, laundromats, hardware supply, warehousing and storage, certain construction services, parcel transportation services, veterinary and pet supply business and services including agricultural services and the caring and feeding of all livestock and farm animals, home and business cleaning and maintenance services, all businesses which rely upon deliveries may continue, including florists, internet and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services), print, online and broadcast media, and certain other business and services the Health Department in coordination with Metro Legal and the Office of the Mayor determines are essential for the continued safety and security of Davidson County. This Order is effective at 12:01 a.m. March 23, 2020, and shall remain in effect for 14 days, subject to extension.

March 22, 2020:

Governor Lee issued an Executive Order that prohibits social gatherings of 10 or more people. The Order also contains following provisions regarding restaurants, bars, and similar food and drink establishments: (1) Establishments are to exclusively offer drive-thru, take-out or delivery options to support families, businesses and the food supply chain during this emergency; and (2) Establishments may sell alcohol by take-out or delivery (with the purchase of food) in closed containers to those who are age 21 and over. This Order is effective 12:01 a.m. March 23, 2020, through 12:01 a.m. April 6, 2020.

March 20, 2020:

(Williamson County): County Sheriff's Office will not serve eviction notices to residents, but will still serve civil papers.

March 17, 2020:

(Davidson County): All evictions and service of civil papers suspended "until further notice" in Davidson County (serving Nashville). No clarification as to commercial, residential, or both. Exceptions include orders of protection, child custody orders, papers related to protection of elderly, vulnerable persons and healthcare workers. Court offices are still open with skeleton crews to receive civil papers/eviction filings, but they won't come before the court until April 10 in Nashville. Sheriff has halted evictions at all stages of the process for the time being, regardless if courts move forward with their procedure.