Movie Theaters, Bowling Alleys Expand Capacities In Anne Arundel

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — All Anne Arundel businesses are cleared to operate at half capacity, County Executive Steuart Pittman announced Thursday. Some establishments were still capped at 25 percent occupancy before the update, including:

• Indoor theaters
• Live call bingo halls
• Pool halls
• Outdoor sporting venues
• Cigar and hookah lounges
• Adult entertainment facilities

“Today’s loosening of restrictions are minor, but they simplify compliance and enforcement by aligning us with Maryland’s minimum standards,” Pittman said in a press release, noting that the changes take effect immediately.

The county executive last eased regulations on Jan. 27 when he bumped restaurants and bars to 50 percent capacity. Local coronavirus numbers have since fallen to their lowest levels since last fall.

Social gatherings are still limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. Pittman outlined all the regulations and explained every rule exception in his latest executive order.

"Please continue to limit social gatherings, wear your masks, and avoid high-risk contacts," the county executive said. "The end of this pandemic is hopefully drawing near, so let’s finish the good work we are doing."

To see when you'll be eligible for the coronavirus inoculation, read Patch's explainer. Check out our how-to guide to learn how to sign up for the shot. Catch up on the latest coronavirus infection and vaccination metrics in Anne Arundel County by heading to our latest numbers update.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story said bars and restaurants could increase to half capacity. They have been at 50 percent indoor occupancy since Jan. 27.

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