We asked Facebook: With many states now considering phases of reopening, when would you feel safe or at least OK with Florida going back to work and school as usual?
“Nature, including parks, beaches etc., should be open now. People need sunshine, fresh air and exercise. Businesses should open as soon they choose. They can implement the appropriate safety measures that their particular business requires.” — Elizabeth Zarycki
“Mid-May with some stipulations. Social distancing whenever possible, encourage wearing masks (or staying home) if severely immunocompromised.” — Gwen Hendricks
“It needs to reopen, but in phases just as suggested. We can’t go back to ‘normal’ right off the bat. We could be back right there we left off if we go back to full capacity at places. Starting with half capacity at restaurants, and then slowly moving back up to full.” — Bentley Rae Roberts
“Counties should decide with common sense. If people can work from home, they should. Limit seating at restaurants, etc., keep washing hands and wear a mask if your health may be compromised…schools should wait to return until next school year (August). Kids can’t social distance in school.” — Karol Sistrunk
“Now! People need to go back to work. But have limitations. Only so many people in restaurants, continue proper hygiene, continue social distancing and encourage masks. Encourage those who are high-risk to stay home except for essentials. And open testing to every single person. That way you know who is positive and they can self-isolate.” — Shelly Roberts-Woods
“There is no right answer to this, however I feel for the businesses…they need to re-open so they can go back to employ the people that were either laid off or hurting due to being closed.” — Graciela M. Gonzalez
“Florida should be on phased reopening, get people to take precautions like wearing a mask. Keeping social distance. Restaurant should not open their dining rooms yet at least for two more weeks.” — Mirtha La Rosa
“The problem we face is being a tourist state. When Florida opens up all the visitors come back, so we need a different plan in reopening.” — Makeba Knighten
“Reopening Florida is sentencing millions to an untimely death.” – -Ally Clements
“Things need to start opening soon, but I’m higher risk so probably June 1 for me.” — Caitlyn Sharits
“Anyone willing to reopen all businesses and go back to our daily routines without a vaccine is willfully endangering their lives and the lives of their families. Schools are closed for the rest of the school year and this will also negatively affect families, especially single-parent families. The infection rate and mortality rate will be completely different than during quarantine. I will not endanger my family nor my community until a cure is found. It is insane to take your chance with this virus.” — Mara Samantha Bourque