New Jersey relaxing COVID-19 restrictions for catered events, outdoor gatherings

New Jersey will increase capacity for indoor weddings, proms and other catered events beginning May 10, along with outdoor capacities at large venues.
Gov. Phil Murphy unveiled the changes during a news conference Monday. Murphy said the two-week delay is aimed at giving schools and businesses time to plan.
“The only reason we are able to announce all these steps today is because of the tremendous work that millions of you are doing to help us crush the curves and end this pandemic,” Murphy said. “Keep getting vaccinated, and if you know someone who may be nervous, reach out to them and help them understand that our vaccines are safe and effective. Keep masking up. Keeping being smart and using common sense.”
Weddings, proms, funerals, political events and performances can begin hosting people up to 50% of their venue capacities, with a maximum of 250 people. That’s up from a limit of 35% capacity and 150 people.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.