More than 230 new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Arkansas; some large venues to reopen May 18

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — On Saturday, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 237 new COVID-19 cases in the state, raising the total number to 3,984 positive cases in the state.

The majority of the new cases came from a Forrest City federal prison. They reported 173 new cases after test results from the CDC arrived.

Officials say the prison now has 301 positive cases among inmates and 13 cases among staff.

So far, 64 Arkansans are currently in the hospital with 13 on a ventilator. Two new deaths were also reported on Saturday raising the death toll to 90.

Over 3,000 people have recovered from COVID-19 in the state.

In his daily briefing, Governor Asa Hutchinson updated the guidelines for the re-opening of large outdoor and indoor venues.

Starting on May 18, large indoor and outdoor venues can hold events with up to 33 percent of their capacity filled. Before, both venues were limited to having less than 50 people.

According to Dr. Nate Smith, if an event does have more than 50 people in attendance the venue will have to submit a plan to the department of health to be reviewed and approved.

Gov. Hutchinson also noted that as they work to re-open Arkansas and we enter the spring and summer seasons, it’s still very important that we keep up with social distancing and safe health practices to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

An additional $92 million has been approved for the Arkansas Ready for Business program to help businesses prepare to re-open safely. That brings total funding for the program to almost $148 million. The program provides grants for businesses to cover cleaning expenses and other costs needed to keep employees and customers safe.

It's the second time additional funding was given to the program, initially funded at $15 million, but ran out of money within an hour.

Little Rock residents can also pick up free masks courtesy of the city.

In partnership with Kroger and Edwards Food Giant, city officials will provide reusable masks to those who need them.

Anyone in need of a mask can pick one up at Kroger stores on Colonel Glenn, Geyer Springs, and East Roosevelt or at Edwards stores on Main Street and Baseline Road.