Of the 27 new cases reported today, 14 were from a correctional facility. The Governor said this is the lowest increase in cases we have seen in some time.
The co-chairs of the Arkansas Legislative Council and of the ALC PEER Subcommittee approved a measure to direct $55 million of CARES Act funding to the Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Program.
With approval by the Arkansas legislature, businesses in every industry sector may be eligible for a Ready for Business grant. Of the $55-million, at least 75 percent will be funded to businesses with less than 50 employees and at least 15 percent of the recipients will be minority and women-owned businesses.
Qualifying businesses may be awarded a grant for expenses associated with reconfiguring business to meet recommended health and safety guidelines such as PPE, cleaning supplies, and signs.
AEDC will begin accepting Ready for Business Grant applications this Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm.
AEDC initially launched the Arkansas Ready For Business grant program last Wednesday with over 2300 applications submitted in one hour. Applicants who successfully applied do not have to reapply.
The Arkansas Department of Health has issued guidance for places of worship effective today. The guidance includes 6-foot distancing except for family groups, no physical contact, no youth or childcare, and face coverings by anyone over 10 years of age. Online platforms are still strongly encouraged. You can find a complete list of the guidelines at www.healthy.arkansas.gov.
The Governor also issued directives for large outdoor venues effective today and large indoor venues effective May 18.
Directives for outdoor venues such as sports venues, arenas, stadiums, and amusement centers include 12-foot distances between performers and audience, an audience of 50 people or fewer, and seating in only every other row.
Indoor venues include lecture halls, movie theaters, museums, funeral homes, and bowling alleys.
You can find a complete this of those directives on the ADH website as well.

2020 Covid-19_infographic_2020-05-04.pdf