Cooper Lifts All NC Gathering Limits and Most Mask Mandates
Governor Roy Cooper announced Friday that effective immediately, all capacity and NC gathering limits have been lifted, as well as most mandatory mask requirements.
“Today is a great day. But the work is not yet done and people getting vaccinated will get it done,” Cooper said at a news conference. “The CDC’s guidance affirms that getting vaccinated is the way through this. We can take this step today because the science shows our focus on getting people vaccinated is working.”
Today, Gov. Cooper announced a big step forward in our fight against the pandemic: pic.twitter.com/uuGXcwzXE5
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) May 14, 2021
There will still be some mask requirements in certain situations, like public transportation, schools, child care and in public health settings. But the requirement has been lifted elsewhere. Anyone who has not received their COVID-19 vaccination yet is strongly encouraged to wear a mask still. But all of the NC gathering limits have been lifted.
Masks are also strongly encouraged at large crowded indoor events, including sporting events and live shows. Social distancing requirements are also being removed.
“Throughout the pandemic, I’ve said we would listen to health experts and follow the science as we made decisions,” Cooper said. “We would listen to the CDC. Our focus would be on saving lives. We would use a dimmer-switch approach to easing restrictions. We’re continuing to do all these things.”
Effective immediately, we are lifting all mandatory capacity & gathering limits & social distancing requirements and most mandatory mask requirements. That means in most settings indoors or outdoors the state will no longer require you to wear a mask or be socially distant.
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) May 14, 2021
The Governor also strongly emphasized there was still work to be done on getting vaccinated.
“I have a message for people who have not been vaccinated, and especially those who will choose not to wear a mask. Get vaccinated now,” Cooper said. “If you don’t listen to me, ask your doctor and do what your doctor tells you.”
