Governor Walz announces timeline to end state COVID-19 restrictions

Governor Tim Walz has outlined a three step plan to end Minnesota’s remaining COVID-19 restrictions by May 28^th.  It also includes lifting the mask mandate once 70% of those over the age of 16 are vaccinated – or by July 1^st.  Minnesota is currently on track to hit the 70% mark by the end of June.

As of noon tomorrow (Friday) limits for outdoor dining and events will end and mandatory closing times will no longer be in effect.

By May 28^th remaining capacity limits and distancing will come to an end for indoor events and gatherings.  Face coverings will still be required for events that exceed 500 people.

By July 1^st face covering requirements and the need for preparedness plans will end.

Because the not all students are eligible for the vaccine, the Safe Learning Plan for schools will continue until the end of the school year to protect students, teachers, and staff in schools.

According to the governor local jurisdictions and businesses may still require masks and have other requirements beyond July 1.

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Step one takes place at noon on May 7. It includes initial steps to relax some restrictions, primarily in outdoor settings.

• Removes limits for outdoor dining, events, and other get-togethers, and ends the mask requirement outdoors except at large venues with over 500 people.
• Eliminates the state-established mandatory closing time for bars, restaurants, and food and beverage service at other places of public accommodation.

The second step begins on May 28. Remaining capacity and distancing limits will come to an end, including for indoor events and gatherings. The requirements that will remain include:

• Face coverings indoors and for outdoor events that exceed 500 people.
• There will be no new safety requirements for businesses, though they must maintain their plans to keep their employees and customers safe – as they have from the beginning of the pandemic – guided only by a minimal universal state guidance document.

The third step takes place once 70 percent of Minnesotans age 16 years and older – 3,087,404 Minnesotans – get at least one dose of the vaccine, but no later than July 1.

• The remaining face covering requirement and the requirement for preparedness plans will end. Work on vaccines will continue, and local jurisdictions and entities may set their own mask policies.