[ TripSavvy ] Timeline of the U.S. Reopening: A State-by-State Guide

Since the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020, the U.S. response to control and contain the spread has mostly been at the state level with state governments (and more locally, those of cities and counties) enforcing closures, social distancing, face masks, and other safety precautions. Some states began reopening their economies as early as April 2020 and more followed suit at their own pace in the following months. Infection rates in the U.S. rose to new heights in the fall and winter of 2020 and came down significantly in 2021, prompting many states to lift restrictions and mask mandates. 

As each state continues to roll out vaccinations, more restrictions are being lifted and some states, like Texas and Mississippi, have completely reopened. Many other states like New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut have plans to lift all restrictions in May and June as long as infection rates stay low.

On April 2, the CDC announced new guidelines that condone travel for fully vaccinated people without the need to get tested or self-quarantine. In April and May, the CDC announced new guidance allowing fully vaccinated people to not wear masks indoors and outdoors, however some states still have mask mandates in place.