Governor Kristi Noem announced her plan to help South Dakotans get “Back to Normal” following the COVID-19 pandemic
“The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly changed the path so many South Dakotans were on. Some of us lost friends and loved-ones,” Noem said. “This disease also stole our most precious commodity—time. In addition to the health costs, the social costs of this virus are historic in the worst way. I have let science, facts, and data drive our decision-making, and we will continue to do so.
“South Dakotans have taken personal responsibility for their health and safety seriously. They have done a tremendous job practicing good public hygiene and social distancing. Together, we’ve cut our projected peak infection rate by more than 75 percent. South Dakotans have lived up to our state’s motto: ‘Under God, the people rule.’
“The plan I am unveiling today continues to put the power of decision-making into the hands of the people – where it belongs. Today’s plan relies on South Dakotan’s continuing to exercise common sense, reasonableness, innovation, and a commitment to themselves, their families, and – in turn – their communities.”
The “Back to Normal” plan outlines guidance for individuals, employers, schools, health care providers and local governments.
Tuesday, Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2020-20 to put the plan into effect.
The plan is based on increased testing capacity and continued improvement in South Dakota’s projected peak hospitalization. To learn more about the “Back to Normal” plan and the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit COVID.sd.gov.
