Undeterred by a barrage of criticism, Georgia is moving ahead with its plan to reopen some nonessential businesses Friday despite an increase in coronavirus deaths in the state.
Gov. Brian Kemp was one of the last state leaders to issue a stay-at-home order effective April 3 to combat the spread of the deadly coronavirus.
This week, he became one of the nation's first governors to ease those restrictions after he announced he's allowing businesses such as gyms, barber shops, hair salons, tattoo parlors and bowling alleys to reopen Friday.
This week, he became one of the nation's first governors to ease those restrictions after he announced he's allowing businesses such as gyms, barber shops, hair salons, tattoo parlors and bowling alleys to reopen Friday.
His decision has pit him against mayors from several cities, including Atlanta, Augusta and Savannah. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms called his announcement perplexing for a state that's still battling a virus that's killed 900 residents and sickened 22,000 others. Nationwide, the death toll is approaching 50,000, according to data from Johns Hopkins.
The move to reopen has left some business owners conflicted.
Hair stylist Sabrina Watkins said since the announcement, at least 15 clients have called her to find out if they can come in, but she has no plans to return to work any time soon.
"How do you get a haircut and stay a safe distance from someone cutting your bangs?" she asked.
Kay Kendrick, chair of the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, said they have guidelines and safety measures in place for the reopening.
"I am very happy that Governor Kemp decided that we can reopen our salons and spas," Kendrick said. "We have 95,000 licensees under our board, most of whom are independent contractors that have no other source of income."
Kay Kendrick, chair of the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers, said they have guidelines and safety measures in place for the reopening.
"I am very happy that Governor Kemp decided that we can reopen our salons and spas," Kendrick said. "We have 95,000 licensees under our board, most of whom are independent contractors that have no other source of income."
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