US: State of New Jersey to ease additional COVID-19 restrictions May 7 /update 36

Officials in New Jersey, US, to ease certain COVID-19 restrictions May 7. Further controls to be loosened on May 19.

Event

Officials in New Jersey have issued orders to ease restrictions May 7 due to decreases in COVID-19 infections, as well as increases in the percentage of the population fully vaccinated against the virus. The state plans to further ease restrictions on May 19.

Under the new directives, effective May 7, the cap on outdoor gathering size will be increased from 200 to 500 persons; indoor catered events, weddings, memorial services, and political events will be allowed to increase in size from 35 to 50 percent of the venue's capacity, up to a maximum of 250 people. Bars will be allowed to reopen for indoor services and the capacity limit for large outdoor venues will increase to 50 percent. For more details of specific restrictions per industry, click here.

Authorities intend to ease additional restrictions on May 19 provided COVID-19 activity remains limited. The move may include lifting all specific capacity limitations on businesses, removing all limits on outdoor gatherings, and increasing the limit for indoor social gatherings and indoor event venues.

All businesses must continue to enforce social distancing standards, enhance sanitation procedures, and provide employees with any necessary personal protective equipment. Residents must wear protective facemasks in all indoor public spaces and in outdoor settings whenever compliance with social distancing measures is not possible.

Travel Advisory
State authorities no longer require COVID-19 tests or self-quarantine for out-of-state visitors; however, they have aligned their guidelines with those of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which urges international travelers to self-monitor their health upon arrival and avoid crowded places. Unvaccinated individuals should delay travel; if such persons do travel, they are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test three days before departure and take another test 3-5 days after arrival.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.