At his press conference on Monday afternoon, Governor Lamont previewed a new set of changes to the Sector Rules that businesses have been operating under. These changes rollback some of the openings under Phase 3, and Lamont has called this new version “Phase 2.1”.
We’re still awaiting all the details this week; the changes are expected to take effect on Friday. But here’s what’s been released thus far:
- Restaurants will revert back to 50 percent capacity indoors with 8 people at a table maximum
- Restaurants and entertainment places will have a curfew; they must be closed to 9:30p though takeout and delivery can continue past that time
- Personal services (hair and nail salons, for example) can remain at 75 percent capacity
- Event venues will have deep restrictions; 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors
- Performing arts and movies theaters can remain open with capacity capped at 100 people
- Religious gatherings will also be restricted with 50 percent capacity (and 100 person maximum) with virtual services strongly encouraged.
The governor also announed additional recommendations for businesses:
- Employers should maximize work from home
- Employers (and employees) should cancel or postpone non-essential travel. This means those business trips should be cancelled for the forseeable future.
- And “stay safe, stay home” remains the recommendation.
- He encouraged those 60 or older, or those in high risk should take extra precautions.
- He encouraged everyone to stay at home from 10p to 5a.
- Events and gatherings should end by 9:30p.
The goal overall is to make sure to avoid a larger shutdown later and in particular, to keep schools and childcare places open as long as possible.
Be sure to bookmark the state’s latest guidance and watch for the update sometime this week.