Here Are The Businesses That Are Still Open in Iowa – And Find Out What’s Not

With each state and Governor enacting its own measures, it can be confusing to keep up with what exactly is still open and what isn't.

Although Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has closed "non-essential" businesses in the state, according to the Des Moines Register, plenty of stores have remained open.

Reynolds' spokesman, Pat Garrett, said Wednesday that the governor's office created the list of business closures with input from agencies such as the Iowa Department of Health and Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, as well as looking at other states. The goal was to prevent unnecessary gatherings while not shutting down the economy, he said.  

Some of the businesses that remain open, like craft stores, may surprise you.

- Grocery stores, discount stores, pharmacies:  Includes places that sell food, medicine and household goods, such as Walmart and Target

- Craft and fabric stores: Michael's, Joann Fabrics, and Hobby Lobby have remained open. The reason? Many customers are using fabric to create homemade masks.

- Auto dealerships: Supplying cars, as well as the repair and maintenance of vehicles has been deemed essential.

- Restaurant takeout and delivery: Iowa eateries are temporarily allowed to sell alcohol via delivery or curbside pickup.

- Parks and golf courses: The IDNR is warning against the use of playgrounds and also encourages social distancing measures.

- Gun shops: Closure mandates don't include gun shops, so many are still operating.

- Livestock auctions: Although the IDPH has recommended that auctions be postponed, they have not been banned altogether.

CLOSED:

- Non-surgical abortion procedures

- Public schools

- Movie theaters

- Salons and barbershops

- Clothing stores, book stores, jewelry shops, furniture shops, home furnishing stores and generally, any store that doesn't sell food or essential items (with the exception of craft stores).