Since the beginning of this pandemic, we’ve followed the best data available. And today, we're announcing targeted, science-based changes to get the spread of the virus under control so we can care for those who fall ill, get our kids in the classroom, and keep businesses open.
Our team, with guidance from the White House, has spent countless hours analyzing testing results and contract tracing data to understand who, when, and where this virus is moving around our state.
They found that 18-35 year olds make up a disproportionate number of cases, and that over 70% of outbreaks from the last 6 months have a direct link back to weddings, private social gatherings, and late nights at bars and restaurants. These events get riskier the later it gets.
That's why today’s announcement targets those areas.
Starting Friday, bars and restaurants must end dine-in service at 10pm, and bar seating and service will be closed.
Second, there will be a 10-person limit for indoor and outdoor gatherings starting Friday, and all social gatherings will be limited to members of three households or less.
And third, capacity limits for receptions related to weddings, funerals, and similar events will be phased in, but will eventually have a 25-person cap. Receptions and similar events also must not take place between 10pm-4am.
We know small businesses are struggling as they do their part to help slow the spread of COVID-19. That’s why today we also announced $10 million in support so they can pay their workers and their bills. More information on these announcements: staysafe.mn.gov
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Today we announced a cautious, measured turning of the dial toward a new normal. Our Stay Home Order will be replaced with one that encourages Minnesotans to stay close to home and allows retail stores and main streets to safely open.
We asked you to take drastic action. We asked you to stay home to slow the spread and give us time to prepare. And with that time we built out hospital capacity, we increased ventilators and ICU beds, we sourced critical care and PPE, and we launched a landmark testing strategy.
Thank you for your sacrifices. You have saved the lives of thousands of Minnesotans. With the capacity that we built while you stayed home, we can chart a new way forward. We can take a measured, Minnesota approach that protects public health and improves economic stability.