Gov. Walz Loosens COVID-19 Restrictions
By Charlie Firth
On January 6, 2021, Gov. Walz, through Executive Order 21-01, loosened some of the restraints in his prior Executive Order 20-103, Effective January 10, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., a new Order became effective, and notably permits bars and restaurants to once again offer indoor dining, as well as for movie theaters, museums and other entertainment venues to re-open after being closed since mid-November, 2020. Social distancing rules still apply. Moreover, employees who can work from home must continue to do so. Specifically, the Order allows as follows:
- Bars and restaurants may operate at 50% capacity up to a maximum of 150 people, with no more than six people to a table or parties of two at the bar. Reservations are required and dine-in service must end by 10 p.m. Bars and restaurants must be closed between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. Social distancing rules will still
- Indoor events and entertainment such as movie theaters, museums and bowling alleys may operate at 25% capacity, up to a maximum of 150 people. Masks will be required and food service must end by 10 m.
- Outdoor events and entertainment may operate at 25% capacity, up to a maximum of 250 people, and food service must end by 10 m.
- Gyms and fitness centers may operate at 25% capacity, up to a maximum of 150 people and class sizes can be up to 25 people. Masks will be required and the distance between individuals and machines must be at least nine Pools, which were recently permitted to re-open, must also operate at 25% capacity.
In addition, on January 13, 2021, Gov. Walz, through Executive Order 21-04, extended the State of Minnesota’s peacetime emergency for another 30 days, through February 12, 2021.
