SC Gov. McMaster to lift coronavirus restrictions on some retail stores
South Carolinians will be able to once again shop in-person at some of the state’s retail stores.
Gov. Henry McMaster is expected on Monday to lift restrictions he placed weeks ago on some retail stores in the state, including clothing, furniture and jewelry stores, a source familiar with the governor’s plans told The State on Sunday.
The governor had initially closed the stores to further stop the outbreak of COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can be fatal.
The number of positive COVID-19 cases in the state has surpassed 4,200 as of Saturday, resulting in more than 100 deaths. However, the state’s public health officials have reported that the majority of people get better, or about 67% of cases.
Under the governor’s upcoming directive, department stores and flea markets can reopen and along with crafts, music, shoe and book stores.
Any store that reopens must abide by previous directives, limiting occupancy to five customers per 1,000 square feet.
The directive will not, however, allow inside dining at restaurants or lift the governor’s stay-at-home executive order that asks South Carolinians to work remotely if possible.
Trey Walker, the governor’s chief of staff, told the Charleston Post and Courier — which first reported the news — that McMaster is also considering also reopening salons, barbershops and gyms as long as the number of customers are limited and protective masks and other personal protective gear is used.
Emma Dumain contributed to this report.
