Baker Relaxes Outdoor Mask Mandate and Announces Further Reopening Plans
The Baker-Polito Administration provided an update on Massachusetts’ reopening efforts for the COVID-19 pandemic on Tuesday.
The press release states that beginning this Friday, April 30th, masks will no longer be required outdoors as long as you can maintain social distancing. Starting on May 10th, large venues such as indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks will be allowed to increase their capacity from 12% to 25%. Amusement parks, theme parks, and water parks will be allowed to reopen at 50% capacity.
Effective May 29th, gathering limits increase to 200 people indoors and 250 people outdoors. In addition, wineries, breweries, and bars may reopen without requiring food to be ordered. Seated service will still be required with no standing around or dance floors allowed. However, the max per table will be increased to 10 people, and tables will still be required to be 6 feet apart with a 90 minute limit. Street festivals and parades will be allowed at 50% capacity.
Effective August 1st, all other businesses can fully reopen and all limitations and capacity restrictions will be eliminated. This includes night clubs, dance clubs, indoor water parks, ball pits, saunas and steam rooms at fitness facilities, and more. The capacity will be increased to 100% for all industries. However, depending on vaccine distribution and data, they may consider re-evaluating the August 1st date.
Baker is expected to address these changes during press conference at the State House at 1:45pm. Click here for more information.
