On May 21, Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) announced that 89 of Indiana’s 92 counties would advance to the third phase of reopening effective May 22, two days earlier than the original target date of May 24.

The following businesses will be allowed to reopen or expand their operations: retail stores (at 75 percent capacity); mall common areas (at 50 percent capacity); gyms and fitness centers; playgrounds and other outdoor recreation facilities; community pools; campgrounds; and movie theaters (at 50 percent capacity).

Social gatherings of up to 100 people will be permitted. Cass, Lake, and Marion counties will be eligible to move into the third phase on June 1.

Holcomb unveiled Indiana’s five-stage reopening plan, the “Back on Track Indiana” plan, on May 1. The first stage constituted the period covered by the stay-at-home order. The first part of the second stage took effect on May 4 in most parts of the state. At that time, the following businesses were allowed to reopen: retail and commercial businesses (at 50 percent capacity); manufacturers, industrial operations, and other infrastructure; public libraries; and office settings. On May 11, restaurant dining rooms (at 50 percent capacity) and personal service businesses (by appointment only) were allowed to reopen.

The target start date for the fourth phase of Indiana’s reopening remains June 14.