Governor Tim Walz addressed the state yesterday afternoon, and announced some new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19, especially among young adults between the ages of 18 and 35.
Beginning Friday at 10 p.m., restrictions on the size of social gatherings, celebrations, receptions, and bars and restaurants will be in effect.
“Most young people are taking great precautions to protect themselves and their community,” the Governor continued.
“Most bars and restaurants have done a great job responding to the pandemic and keeping their customers and employees safe. But this virus is spreading like wildfire, and every gathering place is now more dangerous than it was a month ago.”
All bars and restaurants must end dine-in service between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., bar counter service will be closed to seating, a 10-person limit among three households for indoor and outdoor gatherings, as well as a phased approach to restricting the size of gatherings for wedding receptions.
Religious services, including wedding and funeral ceremonies, are not affected, just the celebrations associated with them.
“Skyrocketing spread in our neighboring states is making its way to Minnesota,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
“We are focused on protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Minnesotans during this challenging time. The decisions announced today take strong steps to target the riskiest spaces for COVID-19 to spread, according to the best data and resources we have available to us. Our team will continue to monitor the spread of the virus and take appropriate action to keep people safe.”
Another $10 million in funding was also announced for small businesses affected by the pandemic.
Read the latest executive order here: EO 20-96 (FINAL)
