We are four months into responding to the COVID-19 crisis here in Maine. We are getting used to some of our new norms and adapting as prevention efforts and reopening plans continue to change as our case numbers and solutions change. But we are also about to welcome summer, a season that is truly special here in Maine. A season that often reminds us just how much our state has to offer. This summer will certainly be different, but it will still come, and there will still be a lot for us to experience.

Our COVID-19 case numbers are some of the lowest in the country, and we want to keep it that way. But we also want to ensure the health of our economy, and that requires protecting our tourism industry. The Governor recently announced changes to the rules around visitors to Maine that will help drive some additional visitors to the small businesses in our tourist towns. Beginning June 12, residents of New Hampshire and Vermont, where COVID-19 rates are similar to those in Maine, are exempt from Maine's travel restrictions. Beginning July 1, a negative COVID-19 test will allow visitors to forgo the 14-day quarantine, and there will be increased symptom checks at places travelers tend to go. This will allow for safety to remain the priority, but for more business to be done.

As of June 1, Maine has entered Stage 2 of the Governor’s plan to reopen the economy. Under Stage 2, you are still asked to stay six feet apart from people outside of your household and to wear a mask in places that are densely populated, or where it is difficult to maintain distance. When you visit retail establishments, there will still be lines for entry. However, more establishments will be allowed to open up, all of which have received guidance from the state on how to open safely. 

In this new stage, there is also more flexibility for groups of up to 50 people to be in one space, again presuming it’s a space where people can be six feet apart. That means you can sit in a restaurant at a safe distance from others or have a barbeque in your backyard if space allows. I hope these changes instill some normalcy in our lives and provide some support for our economy, but we must continue to be vigilant about protecting public health.

One of the best ways to pass the time during COVID-19 is to get outside, while maintaining a six foot distance from others. Our state parks are incredible places to visit and get that fresh air. You can search for state parks based on the region or activity you’re looking for at Maine's Bureau of Parks and Lands website. If you like to fish, check out this year’s fish stocking report on Maine's Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website as you decide where to head out on the water. And finally, many of Maine’s RV parks and campgrounds have opened up for Maine residents. As you visit all of these places, be sure to keep your social distance in mind, wear your mask and if too many people have gathered, adjust your plans.

This summer, you’ll also have a chance to do your civic duty by voting on July 14. Better yet, this year we strongly encourage you to request an absentee ballot and vote from home. The July 14 election is the primary election that was originally scheduled for June 9. The election was delayed to provide the Secretary of State time to develop guidelines and help municipalities conduct in-person voting in as safe a manner as possible. Take advantage of that delay by requesting your absentee ballot today.

There’s no denying we’re living through an incredibly hard time that is having different and difficult impacts on everyone. But in the days ahead, I hope you are able to find moments of joy for yourself and your family. If there’s anything I can do to help you, whether related to the pandemic or not, I am available at 207-287-1430 or Holly.Stover@legislature.maine.gov It is an honor to serve our community.