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CritIcal and Emergency Information  

While the coronavirus continues to impact lives across Iowa, the Iowa Department of Human Rights wants to ensure that Iowans have important information to protect themselves and their loved ones.  In critical and emergency situations, the Iowa Department of Human Rights will identify language access needs in areas of the state and share critical and emergency-related information through plain language, translations/interpretations, video and audio files, captioning, and other appropriate means. 

Translation Disclaimer

We provide translated information to help Iowans access information in languages other than English.  The official document is the full, original, English version of the Governor’s proclamations or other official documents which may be found at https://coronavirus.iowa.gov or https://governor.iowa.gov.   Any discrepancies or differences created in any summary or translation (including the website Google Translate option) are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes.  

Special Edition Newsletter 10/4/21
(For additional language translations, access the Google document by clicking here. )


New Low-Income Household Water Program


As part of an ongoing effort to address the financial impact of COVID-19, Iowa has received over $10 million in federal aid to help households that have fallen behind in water bills and are facing disconnection of service or have already been disconnected.

What is Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)? 

The new federal Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) will provide assistance in the form of benefit payments made directly to water vendors on behalf of households for past-due charges, fees, and taxes for drinking and wastewater services.  The program will be administered by the Iowa Department of Human Rights and locally through Iowa’s Community Action Agencies that serve all 99 counties.

What is the application process? 

Iowans may apply by contacting their local Community Action Agency starting October 8, 2021. To locate the agency nearest you, please visit https://humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/where-apply or call the Iowa Department of Human Rights at 515-281-3861.

Program eligibility mirrors that of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), meaning applicants must qualify to receive federal LIHEAP benefits, total household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, and a current water crisis must be present. 

When will the program end?

The application period is open year-round.  LIHWAP will run through September 30, 2023, or until funds are exhausted. 

To learn more about LIHWAP, visit https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/lihwap or contact your local community action agency. 

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DHS Childcare Funding Opportunity


Did your organization (non-profit, church or community group) provide childcare during the pandemic so that parents could go to work?  If so, you may be eligible to apply for reimbursement of some or all of the cost of providing those services.  The Department of Human Services (DHS) is offering this grant process for the eligible organizations (listed below) to apply for up to $150,000.00 to reimburse your organization.  To be eligible to receive this funding, childcare services must have been provided or costs incurred between March 2020 and August 2021. In addition, the costs must have been incurred beyond normal operating expenses and the services provided in direct response to community needs. Applications are due on October 27, 2021.  More details are provided below, and if you have questions, or need assistance to apply, you may also send an email to IowaDHSProgram@tetratech.com for help.

Who’s Eligible?

 Eligible applicants include:

  • Non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, faith-based, or tribal organizations
  • Under Iowa Code 237A.1, a program that is not required to license as a childcare facility such as:
    • No more than 11 children per volunteer
    • Operates less than 4 hours during a 24-hour period
    • Provided at no cost to family
    • Church Related Instructional Program
    • Church Related Youth Program other than preschool, before or after-school childcare program, or other childcare program
    • Program operated not more than one day per week by volunteers that meet following:
    • Program administered by political subdivision of the state which is primarily for recreational or social purposes and limited to children 5 years of age or older who attend school
    • An after-school program continuously offered throughout the school year to children who are at least 5 years of age and enrolled in school; program must be offered through nominal fee or no cost
    • A special activity program that meets less than four hours per day for the sole purpose of the special activity
    • A nationally accredited camp

What expenses are eligible?

The State can offer reimbursement to eligible entities through one of the following options to be chosen by the applicant:

  • Option 1: Child Per Diem
    • Service must have been provided between March 2020 and August 2021.
    • Use average of Non-Registered CCA rate $12.10/per 5 hour block of time, regardless of age of child served
    • Organization provides attendance documentation on template provided
  • Option 2: Expense Reimbursement
    • Expenses must have been incurred between March 2020 and August 2021
    • Must be new expenses related to the services provided to children and families.  These funds cannot be used for normal operations expenses that were present or budgeted before March 2020.
    • Examples of allowable expenses: Meals, PPE, cleaning supplies, staff wages above and beyond normal operations, craft supplies, field trips not paid by parents

How do I apply?

GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE: 10/27/2021

Application Instructions:

  1. Fill out required information in grant application
  2. Fill out and attach completed W-9 form
  3. Option 1- Complete attached attendance documentation and return with completed application
  4. Option 2- Compile and transmit all invoices, receipts, timesheets, budget sheet, and other relevant documentation outlined below in the Documentation Checklist section along with completed application and W-9 

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All necessary documentation and completed application should be transmitted to IowaDHSProgram@tetratech.com no later than 10/27/2021.

Subject Line of Application Submission emails should follow the following format:

State of Iowa Community Organization Grant- Application Submission- Insert Name of Organization/ Applicant

If you have any questions about the program or application process, they should be transmitted to IowaDHSProgram@tetratech.com. 

Program Documentation Checklist:

  • Option 1 – Child Per Diem
    • Completed W9
    • Attendance documentation (see attached) for all services provided between March 2020 thru August 2021
  • Option 2 – Expense Reimbursement
    • Completed W9
    • Invoices/Proof of Payment of eligible expenses (meals, PPE, cleaning supplies)
    • Receipts of paid eligible expenses
    • Staff timesheets for wages earned above and beyond normal operations
    • Field trip expenses for trips not reimbursed by parents
    • For all eligible costs: include a budget sheet including date, description of expense, rational of how expense is related to the service provided for children, amount of expense, and copies of receipts/invoices 
       

4/2/21 Governor Reynolds signs new Public Health Disaster proclamation 
Governor's Proclamation 4/2/21

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that extends critical regulatory relief for an additional 30 days to those on the frontlines of COVID-19 recovery.  The proclamation continues to strongly encourage Iowans, businesses, and organizations to take reasonable public health measures consistent with guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health.  

3/9/21  Iowans age 65+ can now call 211 to get schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment.

Iowans age 65 and older who need help to schedule a vaccine appointment can now call 211 for help.  211 services are available in 240 languages.  You can call 211 or 1-800-244-7431.
See flyer:   

English (2.36 MB)
English
   
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Spanish

  1. Dial 211 from any phone, press 1, then press 9 and you’ll be connected to the Vaccine Navigator Hotline.
  2. Select your preferred language.  You will need to share a few details about yourself to schedule your appointment.
  3. Make sure you write down the date, time and location of your appointment. 

Vaccinate Iowa is the state's website where you can locate a COVID-19 vaccine provider, find resources and information.  The site is available in other languages.

3/5/21 Governor Reynolds signed new Public Health Disaster proclamation
Governor's Proclamation 3/25/21

Governor Reynolds signed  a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that extends critical regulatory relief for an additional 30 days to those on the frontlines of COVID19 recovery.  The proclamation continues to strongly encourage Iowans, businesses, and organizations to take reasonable public health measures consistent with guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health. The proclamation also continues to extend the waiver on transportation restrictions for oversight loads. 

2/5/21 Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation modifying public health measures

Governor's Proclamation 2/25/21

Governor Reynolds signed  a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that relaxes existing public health measures effective at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, February 7, 2021 while continuing critical regulatory relief to those on the frontlines of COVID19 recovery for an additional 30 days.  The proclamation removes mask requirements, gathering limits, and business restrictions. The proclamation strongly encourages Iowans, businesses, and organizations to take reasonable public health measures consistent with guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health. The proclamation will continue until 11:59 p.m. on March 7, 2021.  

2/5/21  Vaccines Available at Select Walgreens and CVS Locations for Iowans Age 65 and Older

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), in partnership with Walgreens and CVS announce the availability of COVID-19 vaccine for approximately 32,000 Iowans age 65 and older. Unused vaccines which were originally allocated to the Long-Term Care Pharmacy Partnership Program have been redistributed to a limited number of Walgreens and CVS stores in select Iowa counties, and reserved for Iowans age 65 and older. This is a one-time, additional allocation of vaccine.  Iowans age 65 and older can register online for a vaccine appointment at a participating Walgreens or CVS location near them. Appointments are limited to the number of vaccines available at each location.  

                    Read more:  English     

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1/7/21 Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation modifying public health measures
Governor's Proclamation 1/7/21

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that modifies existing public health measures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  The proclamation continues to require that when people are in an indoor public space, and unable to social distance for 15 minutes or longer, masks are required to be worn.  Spectator limits for sporting and recreational gatherings, including high school-sponsored events, will be lifted Friday, January 8, 2021.  Other public health measures have been extended until Saturday, February 6, 2021. 

12/16/20 Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation modifying public health measures

Governor's Proclamation 12/16/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that modifies existing public health measures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  The proclamation requires social distancing and reasonable public health measures for many social, community, business, or leisure gatherings or events. For high school-sponsored events and other sporting or recreational events, including youth and adult sporting events, spectators are no longer limited to just two spectators if all spectators are from the same household.   Restaurants or bars, including a wedding reception venue, winery, brewery, distillery, country club, or other social or fraternal club can resume in-person services at their regular business hours. Bar seating is now allowed.  These new measures take effect on Thursday December 17, 2020 and expire on January 8, 2021. 

12/9/20 Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation modifying public health measures

Governor's Proclamation 12/9/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that modifies existing public health measures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The proclamation continues to require that when people are in an indoor public space, and unable to social distance for 15 minutes or longer, masks are required to be worn. The same requirements apply to visitors and employees inside most State buildings. Additional mask requirements are imposed for certain specific establishments or gatherings. The proclamation also continues to limit indoor social, community, business, or leisure gatherings or events to no more than 15 people. This includes wedding and funeral receptions, festivals, and conventions. Outdoor gatherings continue to be limited to no more than 30 people.  These new measures take effect on December 10 and continue through December 16, 2020. For high school-sponsored events, the proclamation permits two spectators for each high school athlete, performer, competitor, or staff member participating in the gathering and now includes cheerleaders and band members. The same is true for other sporting and recreational events, including youth and adult sporting events, which can now resume. These new measures take effect on December 10 and continue through December 16, 2020. The remainder of the proclamation is effective immediately and continues to expire on January 8, 2021.

12/1/20  Federal Moratorium on Evictions

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/CDC issued a Temporary Halt in Residential Evictions to Prevent the further Spread of COVID-19. The Order temporarily stops residential evictions of covered persons for nonpayment of rent through December 31, 2020.  The Order protects renters who meet certain requirements and who sign a declaration form and give it to the landlord. The process and requirements around the moratorium and evictions can be complex. For information on how to take advantage of the moratorium, visit Iowa Legal Aid's website.

11/18/20  Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation modifying public health measures
Governor's Proclamation 11/18/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that modifies existing public health measures to provide clarity and simplify the measures applicable to recreational activities and fitness centers.  

Except for high school, collegiate, or professional sporting or recreational gatherings, the proclamation only permits sporting and recreational activities when all participants in the gathering—including athletes, coaches, or instructors—maintain six feet of physical distance at all times.  Activities where closer contact is required or reasonably unavoidable, such as a wrestling meet or basketball game, are prohibited. Spectators are also limited at all gatherings to two per athlete and must be social distanced six feet apart. And all participants, except for athletes, must wear masks. These requirements also apply to group classes or activities at fitness centers and gyms.   

The proclamation does not change any measures in place for high school-sponsored, collegiate, or professional sporting or recreational activities. High school sports and extracurricular activities continue to be permitted, even where close contact may occur. But spectators at games or events are limited to two per student and are required to wear a mask.  

The proclamation is effective immediately and continues to expire on December 10, 2020.  

The full proclamation is online its entirety and the substantive provisions are below:  

GATHERINGS 

 Section 1.     Pursuant to Iowa Code § 135.144 (3), and in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Public Health, unless otherwise modified by subsequent proclamation or order of the Iowa Department of Public Health, I order that effective immediately and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on December 10, 2020: 

A. Indoor gatherings of more than 15 people prohibited: Social, community, business, or leisure gatherings or events of more than 15 people are prohibited at all indoor locations and venues unless explicitly permitted by this Proclamation or all members of the gathering live in the same household. This includes wedding and funeral receptions, family gatherings, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, and other nonessential gatherings and events where people who do not ordinarily live or work together congregate indoors. This section does not apply to restrict gatherings that occur during the ordinary course of business or government between employees or members of the public, including but not limited to gatherings in an office or manufacturing workplace, normal retail operations, or other establishments explicitly addressed in this Proclamation. 

B. Outdoor gatherings of more than 30 people prohibited: Social, community, business, or leisure gatherings or events of more than 30 people are prohibited at all outdoor locations and venues unless explicitly permitted by this Proclamation or all members of the gathering live in the same household. This includes wedding and funeral receptions, family gatherings, festivals, conventions, fundraisers, and other nonessential gatherings and events where people who do not ordinarily live or work together congregate outdoors. This section does not apply to restrict gatherings that occur during the ordinary course of business or government between employees or members of the public, including but not limited to gatherings in an office or manufacturing workplace, normal retail operations, or other establishments explicitly addressed in this Proclamation. 

C. Sporting and recreational gatherings: Except for high school, collegiate, or professional sporting or recreational gatherings, all sporting or recreational gatherings of any size are prohibited unless the gathering organizer and all participants comply with the following requirements: 

  1. Social Distancing Required: All participants in the gathering—including all athletes, coaches, or instructors—must maintain six feet of physical distance between all other participants at all times. Activities where closer contact is required or reasonably unavoidable, such as a wrestling meet or basketball game, are prohibited. 
  2. Spectators limited: The gathering organizer and all spectators must ensure that spectators are limited to no more than two spectators for each athlete participating in the gathering. Spectators may only be present during the time that athlete is participating in a practice, game, meet, or competition. The gathering organizer and all spectators must also ensure at least six feet of physical distance between each group of spectators. 
  3. Masks required: Although athletes are not required to wear a mask while participating in a gathering, all other participants over the age of two shall wear a mask or other face covering for all gatherings. 

D. High School-sponsored sporting and extracurricular events: Sporting, recreational, and other extracurricular gatherings sponsored by a high school, including practices, games, competitions, and performances are not prohibited by this section, provided that all participants in the gathering comply with the following requirements: 

  1. Spectators limited: The gathering organizer and all spectators must ensure that spectators are limited to no more than two spectators for each student athlete, performer, or competitor participating in the gathering. Spectators may only be present during the time that student or the student’s team is participating in a game, meet, or competition. The gathering organizer and all spectators must also ensure at least six feet of physical distance between each group of spectators. 
  2. Spectator masks: Although student participants are not required to wear a mask while participating in an event, all spectators over the age of two shall wear a mask or other face covering for all gatherings. 
  3. Spiritual and religious gatherings: Spiritual and religious gatherings, including any funerals or weddings, are not prohibited by this section. But a church, synagogue, or other host of a spiritual or religious gathering shall implement reasonable measures under the circumstances of each gathering to ensure social distancing of employees, volunteers, and other participants, increased hygiene practices, and other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 consistent with guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Public Health. 

REOPENING OF BUSINESSES AND ESTABLISHMENTS 

Section 2.     Pursuant to Iowa Code § 135.144 (3), and in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Public Health, unless otherwise modified by subsequent proclamation or order of the Iowa Department of Public Health, I order that effective immediately and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on December 10, 2020: 

A. Fitness centers: A fitness center, health club, health spa, or gym may reopen or remain open, but only to the extent that it complies with the following requirements: 

  1. Social distancing: The establishment must ensure that all equipment, such as treadmills, bikes, weight machines, benches, and power racks, are spaced at least six feet apart or take other appropriate measures to ensure that more closely spaced equipment is not used. 
  2. Group activities: Any group activities or classes must be limited to a number of people that permits maintaining a distance of six feet apart at all times, and the establishment shall ensure that all such activities and classes comply with the requirements for sporting and recreational gatherings in this Proclamation.  
  3. Other social distancing, hygiene, and public health measures: The establishment shall also implement reasonable measures under the circumstances of each establishment to ensure social distancing of employees and customers, increased hygiene practices, and other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 consistent with guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Public Health. 

11/16/20  Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency for another 30 days
Governor's Proclamation 11/16/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new Public Health Disaster proclamation that imposes a number of additional public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. These new measures will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, November 17 and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on December 10, 2020. To view a summary of enhanced mitigation measures, click here.

The proclamation requires that when people are in an indoor public space, and unable to social distance for 15 minutes or longer, masks are required to be worn. The same requirements apply to visitors and employees inside State buildings. Additional mask requirements are imposed for certain specific establishments and gatherings.

The proclamation also limits indoor social, community, business and leisure gatherings or events to 15 people. Outdoor gatherings are limited to 30. This includes wedding and funeral receptions, family gatherings and conventions. But it does not restrict gatherings that occur in the workplace as part of normal daily business or government operations.

With the exception of high school, collegiate and professional sports, all organized youth and adult sports activities of any size are suspended. This includes basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, swimming, dance, and group fitness classes at gyms. While high school sports and extracurricular activities are not prohibited, spectators at games or events are limited to 2 per student and are required to wear a mask.

Restaurants, bars, bowling alleys, arcades, pool halls, bingo halls, and indoor playgrounds are required to close at 10 p.m. and cannot host private gatherings of more than 15 people. Masks must be worn by staff who have direct contact with customers, and customers must wear masks when they are not seated at their table to eat or drink. The proclamation also requires masks inside casinos.

The proclamation also requires hospitals to ensure that inpatient elective procedures are reduced by 50%.

11/10/20  Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency for another 30 days
Governor's Proclamation 11/10/20

The proclamation imposes a number of additional public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. These new measures will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11 and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2020. 

The proclamation continues the requirements that those attending any social, community, recreational, leisure or sporting gathering must maintain six feet distancing from other groups. But it now also requires that those groups are limited to 8 people unless the entire group is from the same household. Additionally, all these gatherings that occur indoors with more than 25 people, or outdoors with more than 100 people, are prohibited unless all participants over 2 years old wear masks excepts when eating and drinking. In addition to these distancing and masking requirements, at an indoor youth sporting or recreational gathering, only two spectators are permitted for each youth athlete. 

Customers and employees are also now required to wear masks at salons, barbershops, massage therapy establishments, tattoo establishments, tanning facilities, and other establishments providing personal services.  

The proclamation also states “I continue to strongly encourage all Iowans two or older to wear a mask or other face covering when in public settings, especially in circumstances when it is not possible to remain six feet away from others outside their household, unless it is unsafe to do so because of health or disability.” 

Bars and restaurants continue to be required to ensure six feet of physical distance between each group or individual dining or drinking; to ensure all patrons have a seat at a table or bar and consume alcohol or food while seated; and to limit congregating together closer than six feet. And a group seated together is now limited to 8 people unless the entire group is from the same household. 

Bowling alleys, pool halls, bingo halls, arcades, indoor playgrounds, and children’s play centers are now required to ensure that groups and individuals remain six feet apart at the establishment. And groups at those establishments must also be limited to 8 people unless the entire group is from the same household. 

In order to discourage any unnecessary gathering in workplace settings, the proclamation also orders all employers to evaluate whether any more of their employees can feasibly work remotely and to the extent reasonable, shall take steps to enable such employees to work from home. 

And the proclamation strongly encourages “all Iowans to consider how their choice to adhere to public health mitigation strategies impacts the spread of COVID-19 in their family and community. Specifically, I strongly encourage Iowans to consider avoiding events not adhering to social distancing and mask recommendations and thereby considered high risk including but not limited to weddings, funerals, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, conventions, indoor entertainment, spectator sports, private parties, tailgating, and vacationing.” 

Finally, the proclamation also again extends the suspension of weight limits for transportation of agricultural supplies and commodities on state highways from the fall harvest.  And it extends many of the previously issued regulatory relief measures necessary to respond to this public health disaster, including those related to healthcare, professional licensure, educational workforce, and expirations of driver’s licenses.   

The proclamation now remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, December 10, 2020. 

10/16/20  Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency for another 30 days.  

Governor's Proclamation 10/16/20

The proclamation extends all the public health mitigation measures currently in place for businesses and other establishments until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2020. This includes the requirements for bars and restaurants to ensure six feet of physical distance between each group or individual dining or drinking; to ensure all patrons have a seat at a table or bar and consume alcohol or food while seated; and to limit congregating together closer than six feet. Requirements for social distancing, hygiene, and other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission also remain in place for gyms, casinos, salons, theaters, and other establishments.  

The proclamation also extends the suspension of weight limits for transportation of agricultural supplies and commodities on state highways for the continued fall harvest.  And it extends many of the previously issued regulatory relief measures necessary to respond to this public health disaster, including those related to healthcare, professional licensure, educational workforce, and expirations of driver’s licenses.  

The proclamation now remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2020. 

10/2/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a new proclamation regarding the opening of bars, breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
Governor's Proclamation 10/2/20

Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation allowing bars to reopen in Johnson and Story counties, effective October 5, 2020 at 12:01 am until October 18, 2020, at 11:59 pm. 

Breweries, wineries, and distilleries may open effective October 2, 2020, at 5:00 pm. until October 18, 2020, at 11:59 pm.

These establishments must follow social distancing and public health guidelines.  Customers must have a seat at a table, booth, or bar., and must consume their food or beverages while seated at a table, booth, or bar.  Establishments must limit patrons from congregating closer than six feet apart. 

9/25/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a new Public Health Proclamation continuing mitigation efforts in Johnson and Story Counties.

Governor's Proclamation 9/25/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency. 

The proclamation extends the closure of bars, taverns, wineries, breweries, distilleries, night clubs in Johnson and Story counties for an additional week, until 11:59 p.m. on October 4, 2020. They may continue to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption off premises. Restaurants in these two counties are still permitted to remain open, but must stop selling and serving alcoholic beverages after 10:00 p.m.

Restaurants in Johnson and Story counties, like bars and restaurants in all other counties, must also continue to follow other mitigation measures. This includes the requirements to ensure six feet of physical distance between each group or individual dining or drinking; to ensure all patrons have a seat at a table or bar and consume alcohol or food while seated; and to limit congregating together closer than six feet. 

9/18/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation continuing State Public Health Emergency Declaration
Governor's Proclamation 9/18/20

Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency for another 30 days.

Bars, taverns, wineries, breweries, distilleries, night clubs continue to be closed in Johnson and Story counties until 11:59 p.m. on September 27, 2020. They may continue to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption off premises. Restaurants in these two counties are still permitted to remain open, but must stop selling and serving alcoholic beverages after 10:00 p.m. The proclamation also extends the other public health mitigation measures currently in place for businesses and other establishments until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2020.

9/15/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a new Public Health proclamation adjusting mitigation efforts.
Governor's Proclamation 9/15/20 

The proclamation, effective 5:00 pm on September 16, 2020, permits bars, taverns, wineries, breweries, distilleries, night clubs to reopen in the counties of Black Hawk, Dallas, Linn, and Polk.  It removes restrictions on hours that alcohol may be sold in restaurants in those counties, as well as clarifies the social distancing requirements for bars and restaurants statewide.  Bars, taverns, wineries, breweries, distilleries, night clubs continue to be closed in Johnson and Story counties.  They may sell alcoholic beverages for consumption off premises.  Restaurants in Johnson and Story counties are still permitted to open, but must stop selling and serving alcoholic beverages after 10:00 pm.

8/27/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation ordering bars, taverns, breweries, and nigh clubs in six counties to close.
Governor's Proclamation 8/27/20

The proclamation orders bars, taverns, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and nights clubs to close in these six counties:  Black Hawk, Dallas, Johnson, Linn, Polk, and Story. Restaurants in the six counties may open but may not sell alcohol after 10:00 pm.  The proclamation strongly encourages Iowans two years old or older to wear a face covering and practice public health measures.  The proclamation is effective at 5:00 pm on August 27, 2020, until September 20, 2020. 

8/21/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until September 30, 2020.
Governor's Proclamation 8/21/20

The proclamation extends public health mitigation measures currently in place for business and other establishments

7/31/20  COVID Recovery Iowa offers free virtual counseling and assistance for all Iowans affected by COVID-19.

The Iowa Department of Human Services' COVID Recovery Iowa program provides free counseling, virtual activities, referrals, and resources to any Iowan seeking assistance or a listening ear.  All calls, chats, and emails are free and confidential.  Language support is available. 

7/24/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until August 23, 2020.
Governor's Proclamation 7/24/20 

The proclamation extends the public health mitigation measures that are currently in place, including the requirement to maintain social distancing in bars, restaurants, movies theaters, gyms, casinos, and other public places.  The July 24, 2020, proclamation allows stores to accept cans and bottles for redemption of container deposit. 

6/25/20  Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until July 25, 2020.
Governor's Proclamation 6/25/20

The proclamation extends the public health mitigation measures that are currently in place, including the requirement to maintain social distancing in bars, restaurants, movies theaters, and similar venues.  It also extends many of the regulatory relief measures previously implemented.

6/10/20  Governor Kim Reynolds issued a proclamation that continues to ease restrictions on businesses and extends other public health measures, effective June 12-25, 2020
Governor's Proclamation 6/10/20

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    -Proclamation Summary 6/10/20  

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5/20/20  Governor Kim Reynolds issued a proclamation allowing more businesses to open following specific guidelines
Governor's Proclamation 5/20/20

Beginning May 22, 2020, movie theaters, museums, aquariums, zoos, and wedding venues may reopen with appropriate public health measures.  Swimming pools may reopen for lap swimming and swimming lessons only.   Effective June 1, 2020, schools may reopen school-sponsored activities and follow guidance.  

For translations of the summary, click here. 

5/19/20  Iowa Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Application Period Extended to June 30, 2020

Funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been provided under the recent Cares Act passed by Congress and the deadline has been extended to June 30, 2020.

Iowa families are facing many challenges as they cope with the COVID-19 virus. Some have lost jobs or had their hours of employment reduced. These circumstances could lead to difficulty in paying the utility bill. 

If you find yourself in that situation, there is help available through the State’s network of local community action agencies that have offices in all 99 counties. Families can apply for the Energy Assistance program at their local community action agency. This program can help pay a portion of an eligible household's utility bill. Eligibility is based on household size and income. Those who have not already applied, or, who are facing disconnection, are encouraged to do so at this time.

Community action agencies also have other types of help available, such as food and clothing pantries, and other services. You can find a link to information about your local community action agency by going to the Iowa Department of Human Rights' website at https://humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/where-apply or by dialing 2-1-1.

For translations of this LIHEAP information, click here.

5/13/20  Governor Kim Reynolds issued a proclamation allowing some businesses to reopen statewide with appropriate public health measures effective May 15, 2020.  
Governor's Proclamation 5/13/20

For translations of the summary, click here.

5/13/20  Do Your Part.  Help Restart Iowa.   Guidance and posters from the Iowa Department of Public Health on re-opening.

Protect Yourself and Your Community

  • Take steps to protect yourself and your community when out in public.
  • Do your Part.  Help Restart Iowa.
  • Wash your hands often.
  • Stay six feet apart from others
  • Stay home if you have underlying health conditions, are at high-risk for COVID-19 or if you are feeling ill.
  • Consider wearing a mask if you will be in close proximity to others.

Ensure a safe workplace

  • Ensure a safe workplace for your employees.
  • Provide or allow employees to wear masks when appropriate.
  • Offer supplies for hand washing or hand sanitizer.
  • Clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces frequently.
  • Stagger work shifts and employee breaks to encourage physical separation.
  • Allow employees to work remotely when possible and take leave when ill.

Safe environment

  • Welcome back your patrons with a safe environment.
  • Post signs at the door saying no one should enter if experiencing symptoms.
  • Have employees stay home when ill.
  • Offer supplies for handwashing or hand sanitizer.
  • Help patrons with social distancing by marking six foot intervals when possible.
  • Clean and disinfect all surfaces that are touched frequently.

Do Your Part-Help Restart Iowa Posters

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    English
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    Burmese
  • French (93.64 KB)
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    Karen
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    Kunama
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    Nepali
  • Spanish (100.55 KB)
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  • Swahili (98.83 KB)
    Swahili
  • Vietnamese (110.12 KB)
    Vietnamese

5/6/20  Governor Kim Reynolds issued a proclamation allowing dental services and additional businesses to reopen in a limited manner.
Governor's Proclamation 5/6/20

For translations of the summary, click here.

4/27/20  The State of Iowa issued guidance on reopening farmers markets, restaurants, spiritual and religious gatherings, and public health reopening guidance.  
it is very important to know the requirements and guidelines.  Please visit the State's coronavirus website for detailed guidance at https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/. 

Here are the summaries and voice files of the guidance in simplified language.

Guidance for Farmers Market

  • Only food and farm products can be sold
  • No entertainment, activities, or seating areas
  • Vendors must be at least six feet apart
  • Follow health guidelines
  • English-State Guidance-Farmers Market                     
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    , Simplified-Farmers Market   

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    -Farmers Market          

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    -Farmers Market     

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    -Farmers Market     

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    -Farmers Market      

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    -Farmers Market        

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    -Farmers Market       

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    , Simplified-Farmers Market   

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  • Spanish (18.75 KB)
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    -Farmers Market

Guidance for Re-Opening Restaurants

  • English-State Guidance
    -Restaurants
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    , Simplified-Restaurants   

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    -Restaurants     

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    -Restaurants     

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    -Restaurants    

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    -Restaurants       

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    -Restaurants      

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    -Restaurants      

Public Health COVID-19 Reopening Guidance

  • English, State Guidance-Reopening-See further IDPH updates

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    -Reopening  

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    -Reopening  

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Guidance for Spiritual and Religious Gatherings

  • English (9.23 KB)
    English
    , Simplified-Spiritual/Religious  

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    -Spiritual/Religious    

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    -Spiritual/Religious   

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    -Spiritual/Religious    

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4/27/20  Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issues new proclamation allowing parts of the state to partially reopen.
Governor's Proclamation 4/27/20

On April 27, 2020, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a new proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until May 27, 2020.  The proclamation has some changes for parts of the state.  The Governor is encouraging all vulnerable Iowans, including those who have health conditions and those older than 65, to stay home as much as possible even if they live in a county that has fewer requirements.

4/24/20  Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issues new proclamation allowing some elective surgeries, farmers markets, and other relief.
Governor's Proclamation 4/24/20

Governor Kim Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration.  The proclamation allows some elective surgeries and procedures to take place and allows farmers markets to open.  Certain health and safety guidelines must be followed.  The proclamation has some important changes that begin at 5:00 a.m. on April 27, 2020.  These changes are for the whole state of Iowa. 

4/22/20  Iowa Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Offers Spanish Language Safety Information

Spanish-speaking Iowans can access Governor Kim Reynolds' press conferences with live translations of important information about the COVID-19 pandemic.  Iowa PBS will offer translations of the Governor's addresses on air and online.  Iowa PBS is offering a second audio program (SAP) services in Spanish and Iowa Press Special: Coronavirus episodes.  Viewers may submit questions for the Iowa Press Special: Coronavirus panelists in Spanish via email and social media.   For more information, please view the Iowa PBS Announcement and links below. 

4/21/20  New Way to Get Tested for the Virus

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has a new way to help Iowans get tested for the coronavirus for free.  The new process works in three steps:

  1. Answer some questions online about yourself and your health at this website https://www.testiowa.com/. The questions are available in English and Spanish.  
  2. If testing is needed, you will be scheduled for a free drive-through test.  You will receive the date, time, location, and instructions. 
  3. If you test  positive for the virus, you will answer more questions to help prevent spreading the virus.  You may be asked where you have traveled recently and who you have been in contact with.
  • ​Governor Kim Reynolds Press Release 4/21/20
  • Simplified English
    (summary and voice file) 

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4/16/20 Governor Kim Reynolds Issues New Proclamation for Additional Protective Measures in Northeast Iowa

Governor Kim Reynolds Proclamation 4/16/20

RMCC Region 6

The state of Iowa is still under a public health disaster emergency.  Because more people have the virus, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has banned most gatherings of people in Iowa Region 6.  Region 6 includes these counties:  Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Grundy, Howard, Jones, Linn, and Winneshiek.  The Governor’s order began at 11:59 p.m. on April 16, 2020, and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on April 30, 2020. 

For translations of summary, click here.

Information in Multiple Languages

Resources are available in print, video, captioned, and translated materials.  Topics include health and safety, emergency preparedness, and travel, among others. 

Multi-Lingual Hotline

  • Iowans may call the coronavirus hotline by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-800-244-7431 to speak with someone 24/7. If non-English speaker, after the first prompt, press the number 1, at the second prompt enter your zip code (these instructions are only in English).
  • For deaf and hard-of-hearing Iowans, dial 7-1-1 first for the Telecommunications Relay Service to reach the 2-1-1 hotline.
  • Spanish Hotline 515-344-3936, 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Multilingual Hotline COVID-19 1-877-558-2609 M-F 8:30 am - 5:30 pm; native language voicemail 24/7.  Call and select the language from the menu (also listed below) to be connected to an operator and interpreter or to leave a message. This hotline was launched by Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa and Lutheran Services in Iowa in partnership with 2-1-1, the Iowa Department of Public Health and Polk County Health Department.
    • Spanish – 1
    • Arabic - 2
    • Swahili – 3
    • Kinyarwanda – 3
    • Kirundi/Kinyamulenge – 3
    • French – 4
    • Burmese – 5
    • Karen – 5
    • Karenni – 5
    • Nepali – 6
    • Somali – 7
    • Tigrinya – 8
    • Kunama – 8
    • Amharic – 8
    • Nuer – 9
    • Mabaan – 9
    • Vietnamese – 0
    • Mandarin Chinese - *
    • Other Languages/English - #

11/10/20  Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the Public Health Disaster Emergency for another 30 days