WILMINGTON, Del. (KYW Newsradio) — New restrictions go into effect on Monday in Delaware as coronavirus cases continue to surge.
Gov. John Carney announced indoor gatherings will be capped at 10 people. Indoor gatherings in venues can take place at 30% fire capacity with no more than 50 people inside at once. This includes all events, such as weddings, funerals, services in houses of worship, performances, political gatherings, and events in public spaces, like fire halls.
Restaurants are capped at 30% fire capacity for indoor dining. They can serve additional people outside.
People are asked to wear masks inside Delaware restaurants until the food is served, rather than take them off when they sit down at a table.
Outdoor public gatherings are capped at 50 people unless the Division of Public Health approves more.
The restrictions take effect at 8 a.m. on Nov. 23.
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Carney’s order also prohibits youth sports from hosting or participating in tournaments with out-of-state teams, effective at 8 a.m. on Dec. 1. Masks will be required while doing cardio at gyms, too.
Public schools can continue to operate in a hybrid model.
Carney admitted cutting indoor dining in half was the hardest mandate to order.
“The restriction most difficult for me,” he said, “particularly given our ongoing conversations with the bars and restaurants to do things in a safe way, is to reduce their indoor operating capacity.”
He said the overall indoor restrictions are especially important with Thanksgiving approaching.
“It only takes one person to be positive for that exposure to result in a transmission,” he said. “And that’s kind of the point … to try to minimize the exposure one group has with another.”
He reiterated that he acknowledges the difficulties many are facing in this crisis.
“I know this is difficult,” he said. “And it’s difficult for me as governor to have to decide to put these restrictions in place. I can tell you, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t think it was the right thing to do for the health and economic welfare of our state.
“Let’s all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask. Celebrate the holidays with immediate family only. Stay vigilant.”