JEFFERSON CITY, Mo (KMOX) - Missouri Gov. Mike Parson released phase one of his "Show Me Strong Recovery" plan on Monday, which begins with allowing all businesses to reopen and doing away with limitations on social gatherings – as long as "six feet of distance can be maintained between individuals and/or families."

The first phase goes into effect on May 4 and will be extended through May 31.

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Here is a portion of the release from Parson's office explaining the updated statewide regulations:

"There are currently no limitations on social gatherings as long as necessary precautions are taken and six feet of distance can be maintained between individuals and/or families.

"Additionally, all businesses can be open provided that the social distancing guidelines set forth in the new health order are followed. Some businesses will be required to take additional precautions to protect their employees and the public, such as occupancy limits at retail locations.

"Some communities may be able to reopen at a faster rate than others. Local officials will have the authority to put further rules, regulations, or ordinances in place so long as they are not inconsistent with the statewide order. "

A release from Parson's office also listed a number of precautionary steps that citizens and businesses are encouraged to take when reopening:

Stay home if sick

Wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer

Avoid touching your face

Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of elbow

Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces

Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing

Minimize travel to the extent possible Additionally, all businesses are encouraged to do the following: Implement basic infection prevention measures informed by industry best practices

Modify physical workspaces to maximize social distancing

Minimize business travel

Develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan

Do not allow symptomatic people to physically return to work until cleared by a medical provider

Encourage telework whenever possible and feasible with business operations

Return to work in phases and/or split shifts

Limit access to common areas where personnel are likely to congregate and interact

Ensure that sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance

You can watch the full announcement from Gov. Parson here:

“As we begin to reopen, we will be prepared, but the virus is still here. Protect yourself and the people you love. Take care of each other,” Parson says. “Together, we will defeat COVID-19. Together, the state of Missouri will come back stronger than ever before."

More information on the “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan can be found, here.

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