All four regions of Illinois were on track to move on June 26 into Phase 4 of the state’s coronavirus reopening plan, as the state continued to make significant progress in reducing new COVID-19 cases.
 
Hospitalizations and deaths were on the decline in Illinois, with the average seven-day statewide case positivity rate falling to just 2.5 percent as of June 20, according to the governor’s office.
 
Retail workplaces can operate at maximum of 50% of store capacity. Capacity restrictions will be reassessed based on the latest science and public health metrics on an ongoing basis throughout Phase 4.
 
Uniform workplace guidelines include:
 
• Employees should wear face coverings over their nose and mouth when within 6 feet of others (cloth masks preferred). Exceptions may be made where accommodations are appropriate.
 
• Social distancing of at least 6 feet should be maintained between non-household individuals unless participating in activities permitted under Phase 4 guidelines.
 
• Employers should provide hand-washing capability or sanitizer to employees and customers
 
• Frequent hand-washing by employees, and an adequate supply of soap/ paper towels and/or disinfectant/ hand sanitizer should be available.
 
• All employees who can work from home should continue to do so.
 
Phase 4 also allows for the reopening of businesses such as health and fitness centers, theaters, museums and zoos, and indoor dining at restaurants.
 
"Over the last four months," Gov. J.B. Pritzker said, "Illinoisans have pulled together with the common mission of keeping each other safe. By staying home and practicing social distancing, the rate of new COVID-19 cases continues to drop and each region throughout the state is prepared to move to Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan.
 
"Science and data are the overarching guardrails for how Illinois will keep moving forward. By continuing to wear face coverings and following the guidance from health experts, we can continue to safely reopen our economy and move forward together."
 
While each of the second, third and fourth phases of the plan lasted 30 days, there is no timetable for moving from Phase 4 to Phase 5, the final phase of the plan when the state’s economy fully reopens. Phase 5 will permit conventions, festivals and large events such as the Chicago Auto Show.
 
Per the current plan, Phase 5 cannot begin without a coronavirus vaccine or "highly effective treatment" being widely available, or without new cases of the virus being eliminated for a sustained period.