Reeves stated that it was unsafe to reopen these businesses at this time due to the close personal contact required by those businesses. Reeves described his executive order as “a safer-at home order”, replacing the shelter-in place order that had been in effect for three weeks. He stated that a safer-at-home order does not mean that there will be a return to the normal. “I wish it were.” Thomas Dobbs was a State Health Officer and was present at Friday’s news conference at Woolfolk State Building, where Reeves announced his order. He endorsed the governor. Dobbs stated, “This is a measured and appropriate step at this point after careful consideration.” The order will ban gatherings of more than 10 people. It takes effect Monday morning and runs through May 11. Retail stores will have to restrict access to their stores to less than 50% of their capacity. Restautant owners will still be restricted from offering delivery and pickup services. Reeves stated that although the order is state-wide, it does not prevent local governments from taking further steps. If a municipality wishes to close down restaurants, this option is available. Recently, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba stated on social media that “We still have ground for improvement in this fight.” The current stay-at home order has been extended to April 30. Dobbs stated that over the past four to five days, the coronavirus cases have stabilized. The Department of Health still reported 281 cases on Thursday, which was the second-highest number of coronavirus cases in a single day. There were also eight deaths. The state reported 5,434 cases and 209 deaths as of Thursday. Reeves stated, “We are winning the fight, but it is not over.” The executive order will allow health professionals to resume some elective medical procedures. However, there will still be limitations such as the 25 percent reserve for coronavirus cases. Dobbs stated that some elective medical procedures may be resumed as Mississippi’s health providers are not overwhelmed by COVID-19 cases. Reeves stated that his order directed the elderly, people with pre-existing conditions, and those with weak immune systems to remain in their homes and to restrict travel. Reeves has provided updates every day for the past month and continues to lament the negative impact that the coronavirus has had on not only the state’s economic health, but also the state’s overall economy, particularly on Mississippians with lower and middle incomes. He said, “We are beginning to reopen the economy.” It’s not just a switch that turns on and off. It’s a dimming light. It’s possible to take measured steps to improve our lives.” Reeves opened beaches and lakes and allowed previously closed retail stores to provide curbside services. Reeves stated that the executive order could be modified before it expires in two weeks. Reeves maintained that he doesn’t have the constitutional authority prohibiting church services. However, he said he encourages pastors not to conduct in-person worship. Vincent Creel, a spokesperson for Biloxi Mayor Andrew FoFo Gilich, said that Reeves’ actions were “Stay The Course” and was the message he heard. The mayor is currently focusing on keeping an eye on the numbers locally and creating guidelines to ensure responsible recovery. It is important to let everyone know that it won’t be business as usual. It will still be business when it is time.”