Cuomo: Most capacity restrictions to be lifted in New York on May 19
NEW YORK (WBEN) — Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced a major reopening of New York State on May 19. The reopening is in coordination with Connecticut and New Jersey and in New York keeps the six feet social distancing requirement.
"It's a smart reopening, it's a measured reopening, it's a phased reopening," Cuomo said during his briefing Monday. "We are at a point now when we are going to take a major step forward."
The states have agreed that starting May 19, most capacity restrictions will end across the Tri-State area, including retail stores, food services, gyms, hair salons, offices, museums, amusement and family entertainment.
However, there is a major caveat: the six-foot social distancing requirement will remain in place in New York. If the CDC changes its guidance the state will follow.
"The six-foot rule is a CDC rule, and we are adhering to that six-foot rule," said Cuomo. "So, it's capacity, subject to your ability to maintain the six-foot rule."
New York will lift its outdoor bar and restaurant curfew May 17, followed by indoor on May 31.
The gathering limit for indoor catered events increases to 250 or 500 with proof or vaccination or a negative COVID test on May 19. Residential gathering limits will also increase to 50.
Capacity at large outdoor stadiums goes up to 33% in New York.
Cuomo said New York is still working with New Jersey and Connecticut on a joint protocol for stadiums that would allow for a higher capacity with a testing or vaccination caveat.
For events that can require proof of vaccination or recent negative COVID tests the six-foot limit will not apply, Cuomo said.
