Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
New Mexico’s governor announced in a news release Wednesday morning she would relax COVID-19 restrictions for restaurants, churches and breweries effective Saturday.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said she would announce during a briefing Thursday an amended emergency health order that would contain these changes:
— Houses of worship may operate at 40% of maximum occupancy of any enclosed building, an increase from 25%, in accordance with COVID-safe practices. Houses of worship may, as before, conduct services outdoors or provide services through audiovisual means.
— Food and drink establishments (including restaurants, breweries, wineries, distillers, cafes, coffee shops or other similar establishments) may provide indoor dining service at 25% of maximum occupancy, in accordance with COVID-safe practices.
— Food and drink establishments may continue to provide outdoor dining options, carryout and delivery services, in accordance with COVID-safe practices. Tables — inside or outside — must be spaced at least 6 feet apart, and no more than six patrons are permitted at a single table.
Lujan Grisham stated the amended health order would remain in effect through at least mid-September.
New Mexico’s daily coronavirus case counts and hospitalizations have dropped from earlier in the summer.