Business & Tech

MA Coronavirus Restrictions Extended At Least 2 More Weeks

The restrictions put in place Dec. 26 will continue through at least Jan. 22. They had been set to expire Friday.

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Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker speaks after touring the DCU Center on Dec. 3 as it gears up to be used as a coronavirus field hospital for the second time.
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker speaks after touring the DCU Center on Dec. 3 as it gears up to be used as a coronavirus field hospital for the second time. (Nancy Lane/The Boston Herald via AP, Pool, File)

BOSTON — Massachusetts is extending the latest round of coronavirus restrictions for at least two more weeks.

Gov. Charlie Baker said Thursday afternoon the restrictions put in place Dec. 26 will continue through at least Jan. 22. They had been set to expire Friday.

The restrictions include 25 percent capacity limits for most indoor businesses. Gathering limits of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors will remain in effect.

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"We know that extending those restrictions for many businesses, especially small business, is a lot to ask," he said.

Baker cited the continued strain on the state's health care system amid rising COVID-19 numbers.

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Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said the administration's goal is to keep the restrictions temporary.

The following businesses are included in the 25 percent capacity limit:

  • Restaurants
  • Close-contact personal services
  • Theatres and performance venues
  • Casinos
  • Office spaces
  • Places of worship
  • Retail businesses
  • Driving and flight schools
  • Golf facilities
  • Libraries
  • Lodging (for common areas)
  • Arcades and indoor recreation businesses
  • Fitness centers and health clubs
  • Museums, cultural facilities and guided tours

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