Some of the restrictions that have been in place in Connecticut for more than a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic have now been eased or lifted.
Gov. Ned Lamont lifted all outdoor restrictions as of May 1, including for bars that have been closed since the early days of the pandemic.
All restrictions for Connecticut businesses will end on May 19.
Here is what you need to know about the changes.
Face Mask Requirement in CT
Indoor masking will continue, but it's not clear whether it will be a ârequirementâ or ârecommendationâ by May 19.
Get Tri-state area news delivered to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York's News Headlines newsletter.
Lamont said he is in talks with other officials and will make that announcement before the complete rollback for Connecticut businesses.
CT COVID-19 Restrictions Lifted Saturday
- Bars that do not serve food can open for service on an outdoor-only basis. The establishments will still be prohibited from serving only alcohol indoors.
- The eight-person per table limit will be lifted for outdoors only. This limit will remain in effect for indoor service.
- The curfew for restaurants, entertainment venues, recreation venues, and theaters will be moved back an hour to midnight.
CT COVID-19 Restriction Changes on May 19
- All remaining business restrictions will be lifted, contingent upon low rates of infections and increasing vaccination rates.
- These restrictions will include size limits and social distancing rules for businesses such as large event venues, bars and nightclubs.
Stories from NBCLX
LX, or Local X stands, for the exponential possibilities of storytelling in our communities.
What Comes Next
The Connecticut Department of Public Health will issue recommendations for indoor and other large outdoor events, such as concerts, as well as clarify where masking will continue after May 19, according to the governor.
