ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Tim Walz loosened his executive restrictions on bar and restaurant operations but only for 50% capacity or 100 people. His ban on indoor service remains in place. In announcing the changes, the governor noted that the state was moving past a November peak of COVID infections. He warned, however, that another surge could be coming. He encouraged continued attention to masking, social distancing, and hand-washing hands. At special risk to the often-mortal disease are not only great masses of people but also care-givers and other essential workers, he said: “You can’t replace the nurse or the doctor who’s out. You can’t replace the workforce because of community spread.”

Other provisions:

Governor.  Most provisions effective through January 18.

Grade schools

Schools can resume in-person learning for elementary students by January 18 unless they’ve already set an earlier return date. Staff members will be required to wear face masks and shields at all times. Students will also have to wear masks. No cafeteria congregations. Students will lunch only in classrooms or outside if weather permits.

Hybrid instruction

Schools returning to hybrid or in-person models are required to do what state officials call a “rolling start,” which slows only three grades to return to a school building at one time. Schools must wait two weeks before allowing remaining elementary grades to return to in-person instruction.

Upper-grade schools

To return to in-person learning, middle and high school must meet earlier state guidelines. School districts will ultimately decide if they will resume in-person learning. This, said the governor, will need close collaboration with local school boards,  teachers and parents making these decisions.

School testing

The state will train teachers to self-conduct COVID saliva tests they can take every other week if they choose. The increased testing would begin January 4.

Separators

Schools are expected to install glass barriers where students and staff cannot maintain six feet of distance.

Indoor gatherings

Indoor gathering limits were modified to allow a second household but with a maximum of 10 people. Three households are allowed outdoors with a limit of 15 people.

Gyms

Fitness centers can reopen at 25% capacity and can offer classes starting January 4. Patrons must wear masks for the entirety of their visit and stay 12 feet apart.

Entertainment venues

Entertainment venues can also reopen with a cap of 25% or 100 people.

Youth sports

Youth sports will be allowed to practice starting January 4 but not allowed to play games.