New Jersey will lift most of its COVID-19 restrictions on May 19, announced Governor Phil Murphy at his Monday press briefing. Capacity restrictions will be removed for restaurants, gyms, retail, and cultural venues. The announcement is being made in parallel with governors from the tri-state area.
“With our COVID-19 numbers, particularly hospitalizations, trending decisively in the right direction and our vaccination goals within reach, now is the time to take major steps to reopen our economy and loosen both indoor and outdoor gathering and capacity restrictions,” said Murphy. “We’ve done this the right way, in partnership with our neighboring states of New York and Connecticut, and by allowing data, science, and public health to guide our decision-making.”
Although capacities are being increased, in most scenarios the CDC’s six foot social distancing rule will still be in effect. Likewise, masks will still be required or recommended. The news comes just as coronavirus Jersey City cases begin to lessen. Here’s a quick summary of what you can expect to see on May 7th and May 19th.
Buffets / self-service food
Effective May 7th, buffets and self-service foods at restaurants can return. (Full details)
Indoor bar seating
Effective May 7, the prohibition on indoor bar seating will be lifted. (Full details)
Outdoor gatherings
Effective May 7, outdoor gathering limits will increase to 500 individuals. Indoor capacities increase to 50% (250 person max) for catered events, political gatherings, weddings, funerals, and performances. (Full details)
Restaurants
Effective May 19, the 50% indoor dining restriction will be lifted. Restaurants can operate “at whatever capacity allows them to continue to ensure a minimum six-foot distance between groups.” (Full details)
Outdoor gatherings (part two)
Effective May 19, there will be no limit on outdoor gatherings. Social distancing and masks will still be required. (Full details)
Indoor social gatherings
Effective May 19, indoor social gatherings (e.g. gatherings at home with family/friends) can increase to 50 individuals. (Full details)
Indoor events (small)
Effective May 19, indoor capacities at select events can increase to 250 people. This includes catered events, funeral/memorial services, performances, political activities, and commercial gatherings. (Full details)
Indoor events (large venues)
Effective May 19, large venues (1,000 or more fixed seats) can increase capacity to 30% with six feet of distance between ticketed groups. (Full details)
