Portions of Iowa will see restrictions due to COVID-19 start to lessen starting Friday. Governor Kim Reynolds announced Monday that 77 counties will see these changes. The 22 counties that remain under current restrictions through May 15th include Washington, Henry, Louisa, Johnson and Iowa counties.

The 77 counties where restrictions are being eased will see restaurants, fitness centers, libraries, race tracks, and retail shops able to open at 50% capacity starting May 1st. Also, the limits for attendance for religious activities will be lifted, but people are encouraged to continue to social distance with six feet of distance.

When asked about people from the restricted areas traveling to the other 77 counties, Reynolds said people need to be personally responsible. She said she is trying to balance the health of Iowans and the health of the economy. Bars, casinos, social clubs, senior citizen centers, adult daycare facilities, amusement facilities, museums, playgrounds, pools, campgrounds, salons, spas, tattoo parlors, and door-to-door sales continue to be prohibited.

Read the full proclamation from the Governor here: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.