Governor Larry Hogan announced that due to improvements in statewide health metrics, more restrictions will be lifted to help Maryland small businesses continue their economic recoveries.
Effective April 28, the outdoor mask mandate has been repealed. Masks and face coverings will no longer be required outdoors, except for large ticketed venues. Masks will still be required at all public and private indoor spaces.
Effective May 1, all restrictions related to outdoor dining capacity and distancing have been lifted. Standing service can now resume at outdoor bars and restaurants. Note that physical distancing requirements are still in effect for all indoor spaces.
You can read the full text of the governor’s order here.
State Director for NFIB in Maryland, Mike O’Halloran, had the following to say about the Governor’s announcements:
“This is another step in the right direction for Maryland’s economy. Small businesses have borne the brunt of this economic crisis. Our state’s continued economic recovery is exciting news for these business owners.
“Many obstacles remain but we are hopeful that this announcement will be warmly welcomed by small businesses across the state.”
Over the last two weeks, cases of COVID-19 have dropped 38% across Maryland. According to a recent national study of NFIB members, just 15% of entrepreneurs report that business conditions are now back to normal. 37% anticipate economic conditions will return to pre-crisis levels before the end of year’s end.
