Reeves announced Monday that restaurants can start serving in-house meals starting Thursday under strict guidelines. Reopening local and state parks is also being announced by the governor. Friday’s announcement by the governor that he planned to announce additional reopenings was canceled after the Department of Health reported 397 cases of coronavirus and 20 deaths. These numbers are the highest number of cases in a single day since coronavirus was introduced to the state. On Saturday and Sunday, however, the number of cases was significantly lower. The Department of Health reported 327 cases on Monday, which was the second highest number of new cases ever in a single day, and seven deaths. On Monday’s Reeves news conference, LouAnn Wodward (Vice-Chancellor for the University of Mississippi) stated via social media that the number of COVID-19+ patients, hospitalizations, and deaths is increasing. We are not at our peak. This is not the end of the story. Stay safe Mississippi.” Thomas Dobbs (State Health Officer) participated in the news conference along with Reeves. He said that after looking at data over time, it appeared the state’s hospitalization and cases rates have stalled. Reeves stated that daily reports are affected by the number and timing of test results reporting. While some metrics like ICU use and ventilator usage have been stable, overall hospitalizations are steadily increasing, both daily as well as when it is viewed on a rolling weekly basis. Dobbs, Reeves, and others stressed that Mississippians must still practice social distancing. They should wear a mask when in public, keep six feet apart, and avoid large groups exceeding 10. Reeves stated that he is trying balance safety for the citizens of the state with the state’s economy. Reeves said that the state is also suffering from the loss of business. Reeves stated, “I don’t want to wait if we believe there are steps we can safely take immediately to ease the burden of Mississippians fighting this disease.” “There are thousands of people in the state who are ready to close their doors permanently. They can’t hold on any longer. “I hope this will provide some much-needed relief to those restaurant workers and also bring some joy to the people of Mississippi.” Reeves stated that he could not reopen barbershops or hair salons due to safety concerns. Reeves didn’t address the issue at the news confer, but it seems that the order does not permit the reopening or renovation of theaters, gyms, and other entertainment venues, as well as other activities such as nail salons. Reeves’ Monday order amends an April 24 “safer at-home” order that allowed most retail establishments to open within the restrictions of social distancing, and other limitations. However, it does not allow for the reopening of in-house dining at restaurants. Reeves’ Monday amendment will limit restaurant capacity to 50% of its maximum capacity. Employees must wear safety glasses and receive training. The safer-at home order will expire Monday at 8 a.m. The state was previously subject to a stricter shelter in place order for three weeks before the safer-at-home order.