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Walz approves more reopenings

Outdoor dining, salons, barbershops can open on June 1 following safety guidelines

Posted 5/20/20

REGIONAL— Beginning June 1, restaurants and bars in Minnesota will be able to serve patrons outdoors, campgrounds can reopen, and we’ll all finally be able to get a haircut— that …

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Walz approves more reopenings

Outdoor dining, salons, barbershops can open on June 1 following safety guidelines

Posted

REGIONAL— Beginning June 1, restaurants and bars in Minnesota will be able to serve patrons outdoors, campgrounds can reopen, and we’ll all finally be able to get a haircut— that is, if you can get an appointment. Those are some of the changes announced Wednesday by Gov. Tim Walz as he gradually loosens restrictions that have been in place since March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our restaurants and bars are an integral part of the social fabric of Minnesota, and it has been heartbreaking to see this pandemic wreak havoc on our hospitality industry,” said Governor Walz. “While the virus won’t yet allow for business as usual, let’s do what we do best after winter in Minnesota and head outside.”
Under the plan announced by the governor, outdoor dining will be limited to no more than 50 patrons at a time. Restaurants and bars will continue to be allowed to offer takeout and delivery services.
The governor is continuing to strongly recommend that restaurant and bar workers, hair stylists, and their customers, wear masks and maintain social distancing as much as possible. Barbershops and salons will be allowed to operate only at 25 percent of capacity.
The latest move by the governor will also allow all campgrounds and other recreational activities to resume on June 1.
“This is a measured approach that matches the thoughtfulness and generosity of our restaurateurs, who have found creative ways to safely feed their neighbors throughout this pandemic – but making this work relies on all of us,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan.
 “It’s important for all Minnesotans to remember that they have a big role to play in making this reopening process successful,” said Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm. “By continuing to follow social distancing guidelines, wearing masks, washing hands, and staying home when sick, we can limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable friends and family members.”
Gov. Walz has stressed the importance of reopening cautiously and strategically, which is why salons and barbershops will be allowed to reopen on June 1 with only 25 percent occupancy and additional safety measures in place.
 “While all Minnesotans are eager to get a haircut, we owe an enormous debt of gratitude to our salons and barbershops that put their businesses on hold in order to allow the state time to prepare for COVID-19,” Gov. Walz continued. “With the addition of safety measures like personal protective equipment and a limited number of people inside, it’s safe to say we’re not going back to normal. But we can cautiously turn the dial back as Minnesotans continue to do their part to stay safe. Make a reservation, wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay home if you’re feeling sick.”