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Governor Eases Restrictions On Restaurants, Event Centers, Gyms

While stressing that dangers from COVID-19 still exist, Governor Tim Walz is easing capacity restrictions on restaurants, event centers, gyms and indoor entertainment venues, effective noon on Saturday, February 13th.

With hospitalizations and test positivity rates dropping dramatically–and with many of the state’s most at-risk residents starting to be vaccinated–the governor said this move is a “careful balance of protecting the health and safety of Minnesotans while supporting economic recovery.”

Restaurants will now be allowed up to 250 people inside at a time–as long as they don’t exceed 50% capacity–and they will be allowed to stay open until 11pm, instead of 10pm.

Indoor entertainment venues, gyms and pools can host up to 250 at a time, as long as they don’t exceed 25% capacity.

Indoor private gatherings such as wedding receptions can have up to 50 people. The previous restrictions limited them to ten.

The mask mandate for indoor public spaces remains in effect.

“While these measures are not a major dial turn, we know that they will make a difference to thousands of businesses and workers across the state,” said Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Steve Grove.



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