Governor Doug Ducey is relaxing some COVID protocols on businesses, but mask protocols and physical distancing remain in place. The governor issued an executive order that begins the next phase of COVID-19 mitigation after seven straight weeks of declining cases in Arizona and the distribution of two-million vaccines. Ducey says specific occupancy percentage limitations will expire in restaurants, gyms, theaters, bowling alleys and bars that provide dine in service. Professional sports will have the ability to operate normally upon submission and approval of a plan to the state health department that demonstrates implementation of safety precautions and physical distancing. Also mayors and local entities will still be precluded from implementing extreme measures that shut down businesses. The governor says even with the order, “we are not in the clear yet. We need to continue to practice personal responsibility. Wear a mask. Social distance and stay home when you’re sick and wash your hands frequently.”