Gov. Tim Walz on Friday will announce a major turn of the dial in Minnesota's COVID-19 response, reopening the economy to a level unseen since the pandemic forced a near total shutdown a year ago, according to WCCO radio political insider Blois Olson.
Social distancing rules would remain in effect for restaurants, and indoor event venues for weddings, spring proms, and graduation parties.
Businesses are advised that employees can begin to work in-person again, as Walz is lifting the “work from home” recommendation.
Olson, appearing with Dave Lee on the WCCO Morning News, revealed the following expected details on the governor's announcement.
>No limits on places of worship with social distancing and masking.
>Restaurants can expand capacity to 75 percent, bar seating allowed for groups of 4.
>Household gatherings allowed 50 people outdoors, 15 people indoors. No limit on number of households.
>Gyms allowed to expand to 50 percent capacity.
>Salons and personal services can expand capacity.
>Large indoor venues can have up to 3,000 fans on April 1st.
>Outdoor events and venues are allowed.
>Twins games will be allowed 10,000 fans starting on Opening Day.
According to a press release from the Walz administration, the adjustments take effect on Monday, March 15.
Walz has been facing increasing pressure to further open the state's economy as new coronavirus cases are low and hospitalizations remain flat, along with a robust vaccination distribution that moved into its second phase weeks ahead of time.
The governor can make this call because the state remains in a peacetime emergency, which gives him executive powers to protect the safety and well-being of all Minnesotans.
Republicans applauded the dial-back, but also say the Governor can do more to help small businesses.
Representative Dave Baker (R-Willmar) says because of the six foot social distance mandate, many smaller restaurants don't have the ability to increase capacity to 75%.
The announcement is expected to be made at 11:00 a.m., and will be broadcast live on WCCO radio as well as live-streamed on all WCCO digital platforms.