Gov. Cooper eases COVID restrictions, allows some places to reopen at 100 percent capacity

NORTH CAROLINA (WWAY/WTVD) — Gov. Roy Cooper announced a further easing of COVID-19 restrictions in light of continued vaccination efforts and improving metrics.

The alcohol curfew will be eliminated beginning Friday, which will allow restaurants and bars to sell adult beverages any time they choose.

Moreover, business capacity limits will be reduced — with some businesses being allowed to reopen at 100 percent capacity.

Retail stores, salons, museums and aquariums are a few of the businesses that will be allowed to resume full capacity. However, physical distancing measures should remain in place inside those establishments.

“Masks and six-feet of social distancing will still be required,” Cooper said.

Other businesses will be allowed to open at 75 or 50 percent of capacity.

This includes restaurants, amusement parks, wineries, and other businesses.

Arenas and stadiums are going to be allowed to admit 50 percent of their capacity.

Cooper stressed that physical-distancing regulations must remain in place at all North Carolina buildings, no matter what capacity category the building falls under.

“This pandemic is not over yet, we’re only able to keep this virus in check while we ease restrictions if people act responsibly and follow safety protocol,” Gov. Cooper said. “That means continuing to wear a mask and social distancing. We want to strengthen our economy while keeping people safe.”

You can watch the governor’s full news conference here.