Today’s update discusses:

• Moving to Stage 4 ahead of schedule
• Unemployment claims remaining at a steady high
• Reminder that Marion County residents can receive free masks

ECONOMY

• Governor Holcomb announced this week that the state will move into Stage 4 of reopening tomorrow instead of waiting until June 14. Under Stage 4 of the Governor’s five-stage plan, larger gatherings will be allowed and more businesses will be able to open. For example, gatherings of up to 250 people will be allowed, retail stores will be able to operate at full capacity, dining room services will be allowed at 75% capacity, and businesses like movie theaters, bowling alleys, and amusement parks will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity. As a reminder, however, the state’s public health emergency order still runs through July 4.
• Indiana unemployment claims continue to remain at a steady high as 24,000 residents filed for benefits last week. Despite these high numbers, officials are hoping for more of a recovery as the state continues to reopen and lift restrictions for residents and businesses. As restrictions are lifted, more businesses such as movie theaters and casinos will reopen, also providing more jobs.

RESOURCES

• Indianapolis Mayor Hogsett is reminding Marion County residents how to receive free masks if they do not currently have one. So far, the city has received 18,000 requests from residents, who will receive their masks next week. The purpose of this project is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by providing a mask to any Marion County resident who does not currently have one.