Officials in Montgomery County, Maryland have approved a new Board of Health regulation that states that vaccinated individuals may forgo wearing a mask both outside and indoors amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The only exceptions are in schools, public transportation and healthcare facilities, where masks are still required indoors.
In addition, establishments may increase their capacity to up to 75%.
"60 percent of residents have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine which automatically started phase two of reopening where businesses, restaurants and houses of worship could immediately return to 75-percent capacity," the regulation says. "Dr. Gayles also certified that 50 percent of Montgomery County residents have received all required doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. This is a major milestone because it triggers full reopening in line with the State of Maryland and will lift all capacity and distancing restrictions for indoor and outdoor businesses and venues in Montgomery County on May 28 at 6 a.m."
Residents who are not vaccinated are still required to wear masks inside until May 28.
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