On May 3, Governor Murphy announced he is taking a number of reopening steps.
Effective on Friday May 7th, the prohibition on indoor bar-side seating will be lifted, proper social distancing between patrons will be required. Also effective on May 7, buffets and other self service foods will be permitted.
On May 19th, in line with New York and Connecticut, Governor Murphy announced he anticipates completely removing the limit on outdoor gatherings. All attendees or groups of attendees will be required to keep social distances of at least six feet. Current mask requirements will remain in place.
Also effective May 19th, the 50 percent capacity indoor dining limit will be removed. Restaurants will be allowed to operate at whatever capacity allows them to continue to ensure a minimum six-foot distance between groups.
The general indoor social gathering limit will increase to 50 individuals and the 50 percent capacity limits for indoor and outdoor businesses currently governed by percentage-based cap will also be lifted on May 19th, with social distancing measures in place.
Indoor capacities for the following will be limited to a maximum of 250 people so long as social distances can be maintained, effective May 19:
- Catered events
- Funerals or memorial services
- Performances
- Political activities
- Commercial gatherings, such as conventions and trade shows
Additionally, indoor capacity for large venues (1,000 or more fixed seats) can increase to 30 percent – with six feet of distance between ticketed groups.
Governor Murphy announced that he is moving up from May 10 to May 7 the lifting of the general outdoor gathering limit to 500 individuals. Outdoor carnivals and fairs will be permitted to operate at 50 percent capacity on May 7 as well.
Should you have any questions, please contact Hilary Chebra, Manager of Government Affairs at hchebra@chambersnj.com.
