After changes on Monday, some restrictions still in place
Gov. Tom Wolf on Monday loosened some restrictions aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19, citing a decrease in cases across the state.
Effective immediately, Wolf increased limits on gathering sizes and rescinded restrictions involving testing and quarantines for out-of-state travelers.
Here’s what we know about the new guidelines, as well as what restrictions are still in place:
Indoor and outdoor gatherings: The new gathering rule sets a limit of 15% of maximum occupancy for indoor events, regardless of the size of the venue, and 20% of maximum occupancy for outdoor events, regardless of venue size.
A prior version of the restrictions was tiered based on the size of the venue. The new limits mean the largest indoor venues can go from 10% of capacity to 15%.
Travel restrictions: Wolf eliminated travel restrictions. Previously, the state Health Department required anyone over 11 who visited from another state to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test or place themselves in a travel quarantine for 14 days upon entering the state.
Masks: Face coverings are still required indoors and outdoors away from home.
Child care: Child care centers may open, as long as they’re complying with state guidance.
Restaurants: Indoor dining is still capped at 50%. Patrons can order alcohol if it’s part of a meal only, but cocktails to go and carryout beverages are permitted. Serving alcohol on site must end at 11 p.m., and drinks must be removed from customers by midnight.
Personal care services: Hair salons and barber shops, along with other personal care services, are capped at 50% by appointment only.
Gyms and spas: Health and wellness facilities are capped at 50% occupancy, with officials encouraging appointments and directing fitness facilities to prioritize outdoor activities.
Casinos, theaters and malls: Entertainment, like casinos, theaters and malls, are capped at 50% capacity.
Construction: Construction may return to full capacity with “continued implementation of protocol,” according to state officials.
For more information, go to the state’s COVID-19 response guide.