Gov. Hogan issues new restrictions to fight COVID-19
Annapolis, Md (KM) As a way to fight the surge in coronavirus cases, Governor Larry Hogan announced on Tuesday that all bars, restaurants, nightclubs, social clubs and other establishments which serve food and alcohol must close by 10:00 PM each day. This order takes affect on Friday, November 20th at 5:00 PM.
“Contact tracing data shows a large uptick in new cases among Marylanders who have recently become exposed in bars and restaurants,” Hogan said.
He said restaurants and other food service companies can continue take out and delivery after 10:00 PM, but no indoor dining is permitted between 10:00 PM until 6:00 AM.
“This action was made in consultation with our Coronavirus Recovery Task Force, and representatives of the industry based on increasing reports that compliance with public health protocols drops dramatically late in the evening,” the Governor said.
In addition, Hogan announced that capacity at retail establishments, churches and houses of worship can be no more than 50%.
Also at his news conference, the Governor said that the State Department of Health has prohibited all visitations to hospitals until further notice with some exceptions, such as end-of-life care, obstetrics, parents or guardians of minors and people with disabilities.
Nursing home visits are also limited to compassionate care, and all visitors must have proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72-hours prior to their visit.
At his news conference Governor Hogan urged Marylanders to take this virus seriously. “This is not the flu. It’s not fake news. It’s not going to magically disappear just because we’re all tired of it and want our lives back,” he said.
In addition to the new restrictions, the Governor also announced that he will participate in a call on Thursday with President-elect Joe Biden and his transition team.
By Kevin McManus