Navajo Nation To Implement “Soft Reopening” Starting Monday

The Navajo Nation will be implementing a “soft reopening” under revised guidelines as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations decline and vaccinations increase. Tribal health officials made the announcement Wednesday that the Navajo Nation will go from “red status” to “orange status” starting Monday. The new status states all businesses will be required to submit a COVID-19 Reopening Plan to the Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development before reopening. The move means all Navajo casinos are allowed to open to Navajo Nation residents and employees only, in accordance with a reopening and workplace safety plan. It also states that 25-percent capacity will be allowed for most businesses, drive-thru and curbside service will be allowed for restaurants and dining and restaurants with permanent outdoor dining structures may provide outdoor dining at 25-percent capacity. Also businesses can operate between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m., not before or after. The Navajo Nation will continue the daily curfew from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. seven days a week. As of Tuesday, 73-percent of those on the reservation have received at least the first dose of vaccine. Over 52-thousand have received both doses.