Indiana’s new restrictions on gatherings officially take effect Sunday morning at 12:01. An executive order outlining the new county-based measures and restrictions was signed by Governor Eric Holcomb Friday.
Under the order, any social gathering or event with more than a certain number of people would require permission from the local health department. The highest cutoff is 250 people. That’s in counties in the blue zone of the state’s map of COVID-19 spread.
The number gets more restrictive the more spread a county has, with a limit of 100 people for yellow counties, 50 for orange, and 25 for red. Orange and red counties will have additional restrictions, including attendance limitations for K-through-12 sports and extracurricular activities. A county won’t be allowed to ease its restrictions until it’s been in a lower category for two weeks.
Those limits don’t apply to religious services, but they’re still subject to social distancing and sanitation requirements. The state encourages faith communities to offer virtual or drive-in services when possible.
Additionally, the state’s face mask order remains in effect. Businesses continue to be required to have a COVID-response plan and should only admit customers who are wearing a face covering. Restaurants must keep parties at least six feet apart, and customers must remain seated while eating or drinking.
The new executive order remains in effect through at least December 12.
