Connecticut restaurants had to close their doors to in-person dining last March when the pandemic began. Some served take-out, but many others closed their doors entirely.
Over the last year, as Connecticut started to reopen in phases, restaurants have been able to welcome back diners with precautions and social distancing in place.
A year later, we’re back at 100 percent, the governor said during a news conference in Manchester.
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He urged people to be cautious, but to come back.
When asked about eating inside a restaurant, Lamont, who has received his second dose of a coronavirus vaccine, said he is comfortable eating inside.
There was also some discussion Thursday about help for restaurants through the Connecticut Restaurant Relief Fund and the American Rescue Plan.
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As of tomorrow, capacity limits will be eliminated for:
- Restaurants: 8-person table capacity and 11 p.m. closing time for dining rooms continues
- Retail
- Libraries
- Personal services
- Indoor recreation (excludes theaters, which will continue to have a 50% capacity)
- Gyms/fitness centers
- Museums, aquariums, and zoos
- Offices
- Houses of worship
While capacity limits will be eliminated, while face coverings, social distancing, and other cleaning and disinfecting protocols will continue to be required.
Gathering sizes will be revised to the following amounts:
- Social and recreational gatherings at private residences – 25 indoors/100 outdoors
- Social and recreational gatherings at commercial venues – 100 indoors/200 outdoors
All sports will be allowed to practice and compete, and all sports tournaments will be allowed, subject to Department of Public Health guidance
Connecticut’s travel advisory will be modified from a requirement to recommended guidance.
