New Covid restrictions to target second surge
On Tuesday, December 8, Governor Baker announced the following restrictions which will go into effect at 12:01am on Sunday December 13:
Statewide Rollback to Phase 3, Step 1: The entire Commonwealth will move to Phase 3, Step 1 of the Reopening Plan. In addition, the following updates to capacity limits will go into effect:
- Outdoor gatherings at event venues and public spaces to 50 people
- Outdoor Theaters and Performance Venues to 25% and no more than 50 people
- Close Indoor Theaters and Performance Venues and a few smaller indoor recreation businesses like roller rinks and trampoline parks
- Reduce capacity from 50% to 40% for several industry sectors noted below:
- Arcades/Indoor and Outdoor Recreational Businesses
- Driving and Flight Schools
- Gyms/Health Clubs
- Libraries
- Museums
- Retail
- Offices
- Places of Worship
- Lodging (common areas)
- Golf
- Movie theaters (no more than 50 people per theater)
Restaurants and Event Venues Protocols Updates: The following updates will be made to restaurant and event venue protocols with regard to face coverings, seating, and performances
- Wear masks at all times except when eating and drinking
- Seat no more than six per table and encourage customers to only dine with same household
- Put a 90-minute time limit on tables
- Prohibit all musical performances at restaurants
- Close food court seating
Workplaces and Fitness Centers Protocols Updates: The following updates will be made to the Office Spaces and Fitness Centers protocols with regard to face coverings
- Require mask wearing in offices when not in your own workspace and alone
- Require mask wearing at all times in gyms
- Encourage teleworking
All updates to sector specific guidance can be found on www.mass.gov/reopening later this week.