(Camden, NJ) – With the rate of new COVID-19 cases continuing to fall throughout New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy announced the easing of restrictions on both indoor and outdoor gatherings yesterday, April 26.
As of May 10, the limit on outdoor events will rise from 200 persons to 500 persons, and large venues that hold 1,000 persons or more will be able to host events at 50 percent capacity – an increase from the current limit of 30 percent capacity for venues with at least 2,500 seats.
For private indoor events, including high school proms, the allowed capacity will increase to 50 percent of the room’s capacity with a cap at 250 persons – an increase from the current 35 percent and 150 persons. Dance floors are also being allowed to open at private, catered events with masking and social distancing requirements still in place.
Other indoor events such as weddings, funerals and theater/music performances will be allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity with a maximum of 250 individuals. Religious services that are indoors will continue to be allowed at 50 percent capacity with no cap on the maximum number of persons.
The state Department of Education is expected to soon issue specific guidelines on how these changes will allow for schools and colleges to expand special end-of-year events such as proms and graduation ceremonies.
“That we are able to safely increase these capacity limits for events is a testament to the positive impact vaccinations are having in our community. We continue to stress the importance of everyone who is 16 or older getting vaccinated so that we can eventually reach herd immunity and fully lift these restrictions,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr.