The cancellation occurred due to the ongoing concerns about the spread of COVID-19 and uncertainty around when public gatherings would be possible or advisable. The decision followed the Bee’s announcement on March 20, 2020, that it was suspending the national finals with hopes of rescheduling. The Bee determined there was no clear path to safely set a new date in 2020. The health and safety of all participants was the top concern and basis for this decision.