IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2021

The Navajo Nation Reaches “Yellow” Status for Businesses

ST. MICHAELS, ARIZONA – The Navajo Nation has currently reached the “Yellow” status in COVID -19 restrictions for businesses on the Navajo Nation. According to the recent Public Health Emergency Orders issued by the health officials of the Navajo Nation, businesses are now able to operate with less restrictions. Moving forward all businesses planning to reopen are to submit a Reopening Plan to the Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development (NNDED). The division has currently created a checklist to assist in the formation of a reopening plan. To help ensure the safety and well-being of the Navajo People, NNDED representatives are available to provide technical support before submission. The reopening plan checklist is available on our website at NavajoEconomy.org. All Reopening plans must be submitted to NNDED, businesses can submit reopening plans by email to navajoeconomy@navajo- nsn.gov. For more information, please contact the Division of Economic Development at (928) 871-6544 or visit NNDED online at NavajoEconomy.org.

Public Health Emergency Order No. 2020-004 declares “yellow” status for businesses and outlines the new restrictions that include new occupancy levels and the opening of indoor dining. Effective April 26, 2021, most essential and non-essential businesses are now allowed to operate at a 50% occupancy level per the re-opening plan. Restaurants are now able to allow indoor dining at a 25% occupancy level. Casinos are allowed to open at 50% maximum occupancy for Navajo Nation residents and citizens. Currently, the Navajo Nation remains closed to visitors and tourists. Flea markets, roadside markets, and youth programs are currently not allowed in the yellow phase of reopening; however, the Health Command Operations Center will provide information in the coming future. “Yellow” status also does not allow for gyms, recreational facilities, and movie theaters to open at this time.

Moving forward, the Division of Economic Development encourages the Buy Navajo, Buy Local initiative. Through these trying times it is important that we continue to support our Navajo businesses and artisans. Please continue to take necessary precautions to keep yourself and others safe, wash/sanitize your hands often, wear facial coverings, social distance, and remain vigilant to the Public Health Emergency Orders as changes are made. For more information regarding the latest from the Navajo Department of Health – HCOC or the reopening status of the Navajo Nation please visit www.nndoh.navajo-nsn.gov.

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Visit the Division of Economic Development online at NavajoEconomy.org and on social media, Facebook at www.fb.com/NavajoEconomicDevelopment, and on Instagram/Twitter @Navajo_DED