BGSU message regarding changes to Ohio's COVID-19 health orders

May 13, 2021

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Earlier today, Bowling Green State University Chief Health Officer Ben Batey shared the message below with students, faculty and staff regarding changes to Ohio's COVID-19 health orders:

"Yesterday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced the Ohio Department of Health would remove the state’s pandemic health orders, except for those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, on June 2. While individuals will be able to make their own decisions about wearing a mask and social distancing, the governor outlined businesses and schools will create their own guidelines on how to best keep customers, employees and students safe.

We will be spending the coming days reviewing what this means for Bowling Green State University. We realize yesterday’s announcement may be met with mixed emotions. While we are eager to return to a more normal campus life, with fewer restrictions and more gatherings, your health and safety will continue to be our top priority. Throughout the global pandemic, we have strived to be as flexible as possible to support each individual member of our community. We will be sharing more information soon on what you can expect on campus this summer and fall.

As previously announced, while vaccinations will not be mandatory, BGSU strongly encourages faculty, staff and students to get vaccinated. By lifting the pandemic orders in a little less than three weeks, Gov. DeWine provided a window that would allow for individuals to be vaccinated prior to the June 2 date. He also introduced a $1 million lottery incentive for individuals who are vaccinated. Vaccines are readily available locally, across the state and nation.

We will continue to communicate important updates and messages with you. If you have questions regarding vaccines or restrictions, please contact the BGSU COVID-19 response hotline 419-372-3000 or email health@bgsu.edu. We will continually update our protocols as new information is released and restrictions are relaxed."