Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has issued a new order (Executive Order 20-103 Extending and Modifying Executive Order 20-99) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to extend the four-week dial-back period on certain activities under Executive Order 20-99 through 11:59 p.m. on January 10, 2021, with some modifications. The new order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. on December 18, 2020.

For more information on Executive Order 20-99, see our article, Minnesota Limitations on Certain Gatherings, Activities, Establishments Beginning November 21.

Social Gatherings

Indoor social gatherings are strongly discouraged. However, they are permitted if they are limited to not more than two households, up to a maximum of 10 individuals.

Outdoor social gatherings are permitted if they are limited to not more than three households, up to a maximum of 15 individuals.

For both indoor and outdoor gatherings, members of the different households must maintain a social distance from each other of six feet and follow the additional precautions for social gatherings outlined on the Stay Safe Minnesota website.

Restaurants and Bars

Restaurants and bars are permitted to open for outdoor service up to 50% of capacity, with a maximum of 100 people, if they ensure physical distancing of at least six feet between parties at different tables. Additionally, no more than four customers are permitted to be seated at one table.

All establishments must close for outdoor on-premises consumption from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. Indoor dine-in service is still prohibited.

Gyms and Fitness Centers

Gyms and fitness centers may reopen at 25% of capacity, not to exceed 100 people in the entire facility.

In all areas with one or more persons exercising, physical distancing of at least 12 feet must be maintained. For all other situations, physical distancing of six feet must be maintained.

Face coverings are required to be worn by all individuals at all times, including when exercising.

Outdoor Events and Entertainment Venues

Outdoor venues may reopen at 25% of capacity, subject to a maximum of 100 people, if physical distancing of at least six feet between members of different households is maintained and on-premise consumption of food or beverages is not offered. Such events and venues must be closed from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.

Organized Sports

From 11:59 p.m. on December 18, 2020, through 11:59 p.m. on January 3, 2021, adult and youth sports are permitted to hold outdoor workouts and practices if the activity:

• Does not involved spectators;

• Is limited to individuals from no more than three households and only one coach or instructor;

• Physical distancing of at least six feet is maintained between members of different households; and

• All groups of up to three households and a coach must maintain at least 12 feet of physical distance from other groups.

After 11:59 p.m. on January 3, 2021, adult and youth sports organizations are permitted to resume in-person activities if they implement and adhere to their COVID-19 preparedness plans and other related guidance.

Employers should be sure to review their relevant industry guidance and update their COVID-19 preparedness plans in light of Governor Walz’s new order.