LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) — Under a new Directed Health Measure issued Wednesday by Governor Pete Ricketts, schools across Nebraska are ordered to operate without students in their buildings through May 31.

A spokesperson for the governor said in a press release that extracurricular activities are also canceled.

The measure doesn't apply to staff working in schools.

Additionally, the new Directed Health Measure applies restrictions to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties and will take effect starting Wednesday at 10 p.m., lasting until May 11 unless renewed.

The restrictions include a limit to public gatherings, cancellations of elective medical/dental procedures and requires restaurants and bars to close their dining areas immediately and move to takeout, delivery and and/or curbside service only.

Directed Health Measures now apply to 56 counties in the state.

The measures and quarantine directions covering all of these counties can be found here.



See more information from the governor's office below.



Who does the Directed Health Measure apply to?

It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events. This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to.

Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?

At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival. Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.

Do I need to shut down my daycare?

No. DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. You can find it by clicking here [dhhs.ne.gov].

Do I need to shut down my office?

No. The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings. This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to.

Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.

Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?

Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.

