State House Will Reopen To Visitors, Masks Won't Be Required

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Maryland State House in Annapolis will reopen to visitors Friday. Gov. Larry Hogan, Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Adrienne Jones announced the news at a Tuesday bill signing.

"The State House is one of the great and enduring symbols of our democracy," the leaders said in a joint press release. "Throughout the crises of the last year, the work that goes on inside the building has continued, and the fundamental values of freedom and equality that it honors have become even more important to preserve."

The state house will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Groups may not exceed 25 people, not counting tour guides.

Guests must answer health questions and undergo a thermal scanning upon arrival. Information on coronavirus vaccines will be available.

Masks are not required. Maryland encouraged unvaccinated visitors to continue wearing face coverings in state-operated buildings.

The Maryland State House is the country's oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use. It is also the only state house to ever house the nation's capitol.

More information on the Annapolis landmark and its coronavirus protocols is posted here.

All other state office buildings are open by appointment only.

Coronavirus Vaccine Resources

Anybody 12 or older can now get the coronavirus vaccine at providers across the state. Check out our how-to guide to learn how to sign up for the shot.

Catch up on the infection and inoculation metrics in Anne Arundel County with our most recent numbers update. Head to Patch's immunization page to keep up with Maryland's latest vaccine news.

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RELATED:

• Vaccine Benchmark Nears; Anne Arundel Expands Eligibility
• How To Get COVID-19 Vaccine In Anne Arundel County
• Masks No Longer Required For Most Anne Arundel Residents
• Masks In Maryland: 'No More Restrictions,' Governor Says
• Maryland Will Open Vaccination To Residents 12 And Older Starting Thursday

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