Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
New York Will Lift Most Restrictions On May 19 — Broadway Included
In a sweeping acceleration of efforts to reopen New York, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D) announced Monday the lifting of all of the state's capacity restrictions on May 19 in restaurants, concert halls, bars, museums and theaters — including Broadway. The swiftness of the governor’s timetable stunned the arts community, much of which had been operating under the assumption that controls would remain in effect for several more months. (Marks, 5/3)
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Monday announced that the state is preparing for a "major reopening" on May 19, with most coronavirus-induced capacity restrictions to be lifted at that time. "Beginning Wednesday, May 19 most capacity restrictions will end across the tri-state area," Cuomo said. "That includes retail stores, food service, gyms, fitness centers, amusement parks, and family entertainment centers, hair salons, barbershops, offices, museums, theaters, etc. No capacity restrictions on all of those activities." (Farber, 5/3)
New York City will resume its 24-hour subway service on May 17, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday, along with fast-tracking the city's plans to fully reopen businesses. The return is a key part of the tri-state area's efforts to increase economic activity and bring back crowds. (Fernandez, 5/3)
In updates from New Jersey —
New Jersey will lift many coronavirus restrictions later this month, Gov. Phil Murphy said Monday, removing limits on outdoor gatherings and allowing stores, restaurants, theaters, and other businesses to operate at full capacity as long as they keep patrons six feet apart. That requirement will continue to limit occupancy inside many restaurants, as well as places like salons and gyms. And masks are still required when distancing is not possible. (Steele and Rosenberg, 5/4)