May 1, 2020 2:10 p.m. — At today's COVID-19 briefing, Gov. Asa Hutchinson reported the state has 3,321 positive cases, an increase of 66 from yesterday. The state has 3 more deaths for a total of 64.
Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith says the ADH is working with the CDC on its work in the correctional institution in Forrest City. The facility has 135 inmates who've tested positive, that's an increase of 34 and he noted not all of those cases have been added to the ADH's database yet. Dr. Smith said 1,973 Arkansans have recovered, that's an increase of 668. He said the large number is a result of going back through data and recategorizing people as recovered. The state at 1,284 active cases.
A COVID-19 dental advisory group is forming to help prepare dentists who can start to resume some activities May 18. They're expected to meet early next week.
Gov. Hutchinson announced hair salons and barbershops can reopen May 6. Phase One restrictions include having 10 or fewer people in the facility or no more than 30 percent of stations in use for larger facilities, face coverings for staff and clients as activities permit, and maintaining 6 feet of distance between clients during appointments.
The CARES Act Steering Committee has approved an additional $85 million for the Arkansas Ready for Business grant program. The changes to the program are now subject to legislative review and Gov. Hutchinson said he will report back once a decision on that has been made.
You can watch the entire daily briefing here.
