New COVID-19 Restrictions In Minnesota. Could They Be Coming Here?

According to an article on US News, Governor Tim Walz announced new restrictions for the state of Minnesota to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the state.  Governor Walz has ordered Minnesota bars and restaurants to stop serving at 10 p.m.  There will also be limits on attending weddings, funerals and social gatherings under new restrictions aimed at slowing the accelerating spread of the coronavirus.

These new rules, will go into effect this Friday, November 13th and are aimed at young adults 18 to 35, who often carry of the virus, but are asymptomatic.  This age group is the primary spreaders in the state.  These new limits are designed to keep college kids returning home for Thanksgiving from mingling to long at local bars.  Otherwise known as "Thanksdrinking" to many on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.  I know when I attended the University of North Dakota, "Thanksdrinking" was one of the biggest parties of the year.  Grand Forks by the way has issued a similar order that closes the bars down at 11 p.m. for the rest of November.

Other restrictions at bars are as follows:  The bar can only operate at 50% capacity, with no more than 150 people total.  Counters are to be closed for seating and service, unless counter-only service establishment.  Patrons must be seated at tables and no bar games.  (pool, darts, etc)

If you're thinking about traveling to Minnesota over Thanksgiving, like I am.  I have family, and I have not seen my Mother in over a year.  She's been in lockdown in an assisted living home facility.  The new order by Governor Walz has limits on Social Gatherings as well.  There's a limit of 10 people for indoor and outdoor gathering, 3 households or less, including the host.  This also goes into effect also at 10 p.m. on Friday, November 13th.

As North Dakota numbers continue to skyrocket like the rest of the country, you have to wonder if we will see restrictions like this at some point very soon.  Either ordered by the Governor or the Mayors.  By the way, the city of Mandan passed a mask ordinance last night.  Times are changing fast.