On May 6, 2022, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak declared his intention to end the state’s COVID-19 state of emergency, with the official end date set for May 20, 2022. This decision marked a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to recover from the pandemic and followed a sustained decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The move signaled a shift toward post-pandemic recovery, as Nevada continued to adapt to new realities and focus on rebuilding its economy and community life.
The state of emergency, which had been in place since March 2020, provided the government with the ability to implement rapid and flexible responses to the challenges posed by the pandemic. These measures allowed the state to mobilize resources, adjust public health guidelines, and protect Nevada’s healthcare infrastructure. With the situation improving, the decision to lift the emergency order reflected confidence in the state’s ability to manage the ongoing situation through established public health strategies and protocols.
Governor Sisolak expressed deep gratitude for the collective efforts of Nevadans during the pandemic, recognizing the role of healthcare workers, first responders, businesses, and residents in preventing the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed. He acknowledged that while the state was not entirely free of the virus, the sharp decline in cases and hospitalizations indicated that the worst of the crisis had passed.
Although the state of emergency was being lifted, Governor Sisolak emphasized that COVID-19 safety measures would continue to be in place, including mask requirements in certain settings and guidance on vaccination and testing. Public health experts also advised that vigilance should remain, particularly in high-risk areas, but the removal of the state of emergency allowed Nevada to return to more normal operations in the coming months.
This announcement marked a hopeful turning point for Nevada, with local businesses, schools, and communities slowly transitioning to a new phase of the pandemic response. The end of the state of emergency is a sign of recovery and resilience, but also a reminder of the need for continued cooperation and caution as the state continues to navigate the evolving landscape of COVID-19.