On April 6, 2021, Governor Phil Scott released a reopening guide to help Vermonters and local businesses see the path for a phased return to unrestricted travel, business operations, and event gatherings. The plan was developed by the Department of Health, the Department of Public Safety, and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development and uses vaccination milestones to ensure a safe easing of personal restrictions and continued reopening of the state's economy.
Steps of the Vermont Forward Plan
The Vermont Forward Plan ties reopening to specific vaccine milestones in the state. All Vermonters are encouraged to get the vaccine when it is their turn. At this time, Education, Health Care, Sports/Organized Sports and Youth Summer Camps will retain individualized guidance and not move to universal guidance. Note: All dates are subject to change.
STEP 1 (4/9/21): Vaccination Progress (First Dose): Vulnerable population substantially complete; 35–45% of all Vermonters; 45–55% of Vermonters 16+.
- Business Operations for Group A Sectors can move to Universal Guidance (Stay home if sick, Wear a mask, Ensure six-foot spaces and uncrowded places, Practice good hygiene, Think before you travel).
- For Cross-State Travel, no quarantine is required for unvaccinated visitors with a negative test within 3 days prior to arrival. Unvaccinated Vermonters must be tested within 3 days upon return to the state.
- Masks and Physical Distancing are required when in the presence of those outside your household.
STEP 2 (5/1/21): Vaccination Progress (First Dose): 50–60% of all Vermonters; 60–70% of Vermonters 16+.
- Business Operations for Group B Sectors can move to Universal Guidance (Stay home if sick, Wear a mask, Ensure six-foot spaces and uncrowded places, Practice good hygiene, Think before you travel).
- Indoor Gatherings & Events can host 1 unvaccinated person per 100 sq ft up to 150, plus any number of vaccinated people, and Outdoor Gatherings & Events can host 300, plus any number of vaccinated people.
- Masks and Physical Distancing are required when in the presence of those outside your household.
STEP 3 (6/1/21): Vaccination Progress (First Dose): 60–70% of all Vermonters; 70–85% of Vermonters 16+.
- No quarantine or testing requirements for Cross-State Travel.
- Indoor Gatherings & Events can host 1 unvaccinated person per 50 sq ft up to 300, plus any number of vaccinated people, and Outdoor Gatherings & Events can host 900, plus any number of vaccinated people.
- Masks and Physical Distancing are required when in the presence of those outside your household.
Source: Vermont.gov