Governor Holcomb’s Update on State COVID-19 Procedures: What You Need to Know

On Tuesday March 23, 2021, of this week, Governor Holcomb released an update on COVID-19 protocols aimed at reopening Indiana. This decision is partly based on the increased distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and the decrease in COVID-19 related deaths.

Due to the March Madness basketball tournament in Indianapolis, the current COVID-19 restrictions will continue through April 5, 2021. The influx of out-of-state people visiting Indianapolis to attend the Final Four may place Hoosiers at an increased risk for the spread of the virus. However, on April 6, 2021, after the tournament ends, COVID-19 restrictions will loosen.

Beginning on April 6, 2021, Indiana’s mask mandate will end and become a mask advisory. This means that wearing a mask is recommended but is no longer required. However, masks will still be required in all state buildings and COVID-19 testing sites, and K-12 schools will continue to follow the mask protocol through the end of the current school year. Local governments and other institutions may continue to require masks. Although the mask mandate will be a mask advisory, Governor Holcomb says he will still wear his mask while out in public.

On March 31, 2021, COVID-19 vaccines will be available to everyone over the age of 16 in Indiana. Also beginning on April 6, 2021, venues will have discretion in determining how many people can enter, and restaurants, bars, and clubs will no longer require people to be seated six feet apart, although social distancing is encouraged. Of course, local governments and private businesses around the state may have differing rules regarding COVID-19 related restrictions even after the statewide rules are softened.

To read Governor Holcomb’s full announcement, please click here. If you have any further questions, please call McNeelyLaw LLP at 317-825-5110.

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