The B.C. government unveiled its plans yesterday for a phased reopening of the economy and society.
Generally, many sectors of the economy can begin to reopen in mid-May, while others will be phased in later in June and July.
Judging by the questions Business in Vancouver has received from readers, the plan may have not been all that clear. Many have questions about the reopening plan, travel restrictions and even the rules on evictions. We had a few questions of our own.
Here are a few answers to questions people have about the lifting of restrictions.
Q: “BC’s Restart Plan doesn’t specifically mention fitness centres. Are they allowed to reopen in mid-May?”
A: Yes. According to the Joint Information Centre, gyms, yoga studios and fitness centres can begin to reopen in mid-May, with approval from WokSafeBC.
Q: “Does ‘personal services’ include nail salons, beauty spas and tattoo parlors?”
A: Yes. Like hair salons and barbers, these businesses can reopen starting in mid-May, with approval of WorkSafeBC.
Q: “Can you confirm that the opening/use of the BC provincial campgrounds will only be available to BC residents? I’m asking this because both Saskatchewan and Alberta have made announcements to this effect.”
A: Yes. The BC government is recommending against travel between provinces. In fact, Premier John Horgan urged even B.C. residents stick to local parks and campgrounds and not travel to other parts of the province. Provincial parks and trails reopen in mid-May for day use, and campgrounds in provincial parks are expected to open June 1.
Q: “I’m a renter and I’ve lost my job. I have been unable to pay rent so I’m curious when the eviction ban/state of emergency will be lifted.”
A: The provincial state of emergency is scheduled to end May 12, but the Joint Information Centre says renters who can’t pay their rent cannot be evicted and no date has been set for the lifting of the ban on evictions and rent increases. The province urges renters facing hardship to apply for federal and provincial assistance programs, which include: Temporary Rental Supplement, the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers, and federal Canada Emergency Benefit for Workers.
Q: “We have a home in Whistler but as Americans we cannot at this time come through the border. Do you have any information of when Americans can travel to our Whistler homes?”
A: May 21 is the most recent date for ending a federal ban on non-essential travel between the U.S. and Canada. The one-month ban, implemented March 21, was extended for 30 days by Canadian and American governments. It could be extended again, depending on pandemic levels in both countries.
Q: “Concerts remain banned indefinitely. But what about smaller venues? Would a bar be able to have live music, provided crowds remain at 50 or fewer?”
A: No. While pubs are allowed to reopen in mid-May, bars and nightclubs, regardless of their size, must remain closed until further notice.
