(INDIANAPOLIS) – The State of Indiana will remain in Stage 4.5 of their reopening plan for at least two more weeks.

Governor Eric Holcomb announced this week that Indiana is not yet ready to move on to Phase 5, due to the increase in the number of COVID-19 cases. He, along with Indiana State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Kristina Box announced a statewide initiative to encourage Hoosiers to wear masks to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

The Mask Up Hoosiers initiative is launching with videos and photos of state government leaders, celebrities and Hoosiers from all walks of life sharing their heartfelt reasons for wearing a mask in public. Masks are the strongest step people can take to limit the spread of COVID-19, saving lives and allowing the State to continue its phased re-opening.

Holcomb also signed an Executive Order implementing these changes to the Back On Track Indiana road map. He also signed another Executive Order extending the public health emergency in Indiana through August 3.