Donald Trump recently announced that the United States might need to extend its social distancing guidelines until the early summer. He noted that he might suggest this to happen if "he does not feel" that it is already safe.
The United States' current social distancing guidelines will "expire" at the end of the month. However, despite the strict implementation, the cases of new contraction and death have appeared to continue its increasing trend.
To date, the country has a total of 960,896 cases with over 54,000 deaths. New York and New Jersey are the top two states that account for more than 30 percent and 10 percent of the total cases, respectively.
According to CNN, Donald Trump shared these statements later this week and noted that the extension may even "go beyond" May 1. This reportedly comes after "multiple" officials suggest that there might be a resurgence come the fall and winter seasons.
The US President then added that until everyone "feels its safe," the country will be extending its lockdown. People are going to know "out of common sense," he said.
As per CNBC, the White House's guidelines amid the COVID-19 crisis are not "legally binding" on states. It was said that most of the State Governors have implemented their own guidelines to prevent further spread, and help fight the virus. Plus, Donald Trump also mentioned that he is giving the power to State Governors to implement their own protocols.
Despite this dynamic, the publication said that federal officials have recommended "severe restrictions" on "normal behaviors." These include eating out and socializing with others in public areas.
In the same report, it was said that the announcement of the extension also comes after the "aggressive" responses of the officials over their plan to reopen the economy of the United States. The guidelines for the reopening was already released before the public last week.
As per the briefing, Donald Trump shared that there will three phases that must be observed when reopening the country. Each of the phases was to last for 14 days.
The first phase will observe similar guidelines as to what the country has been following amid the pandemic crisis. While bars, restaurants, and sports arenas will be allowed to operate, they will need to follow strict distancing guidelines.
The second phase will see the reopening of schools, daycares, and other establishments. Non-essential travels will also be allowed in this phase.
As for the third, it was said to be the "new normal," as it will already allow everyone, including the "vulnerable individuals" to socialize outside. The three-phase plan can only be implemented in each state when the number of new cases and deaths have continued to decline in two weeks.
