Tennessee gov: COVID-19 now a 'managed public health issue'

Source: The Hill | April 27, 2021 | Nathaniel Weixel

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) ended the state’s pandemic public health orders on Tuesday, including the option for local governments to impose mask mandates for public spaces, and declared that the coronavirus is no longer a public health crisis.

“COVID-19 is now a managed public health issue in Tennessee and no longer a statewide public health emergency,” Lee said in a statement. “As Tennesseans continue to get vaccinated, it’s time to lift remaining local restrictions, focus on economic recovery and get back to business in Tennessee.” 

Tennessee never had a statewide mask mandate, but Lee left the option open for individual counties. On Tuesday, the governor signed an executive order removing that authority in 89 of the state’s 95 counties over which he has jurisdiction. 

Lee said he requested the counties with independent health departments that have remaining business restrictions or mask requirements to lift all measures no later than Memorial Day.

Lee, who is up for reelection next year, touted the state’s success in getting people vaccinated. Everyone over the age of 16 has been eligible to get a shot for the past month, and he said local health departments will now offer a walk-up option.

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