CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Gov. Chris Sununu is allowing New Hampshire’s stay-at-home order during the coronavirus pandemic to expire on Monday, June 15, and transition to a “safer-at-home” advisory with no social gathering limitations or distinctions between essential and nonessential businesses.
“We feel very confident in taking some additional steps forward,” Sununu said at a news conference Thursday.
The stay-at-home order had limited gatherings to 10 and under. There is no longer a group limit, but people are still encouraged to practice social distancing and wear masks in public, Sununu said.
Sununu also said a number of businesses would be able to open or expand under strengthened guidance and capacity limitations as of Monday, such as gyms, bowling alleys, tourist trains, and racetracks. Also added to the list are charitable gaming facilities, museums, and libraries.
It’s an announcement David Hooper, the owner of Train 180 in Nashua, has eagerly been waiting for.
“It’s exciting to get moving into the next phase and get people in here safely,” he said.
But, it will be a while before Hooper’s gym can reopen at full capacity.
Members must stay 6 feet away and wear face coverings along with staff when not working out and shared equipment and areas must be frequently cleaned and disinfected.
“I am just going to have a lot more disinfectant, signs to let everyone know what is required,” Hooper explained.
Several businesses will be allowed to reopen June 29 with limitations: indoor movie theaters, performing arts centers, and amusement parks.
“I did not think we were going to be able to get here by June 29th but here we are, numbers continue to drop and that is a good sign,” Sununu said. “I think we want to keep encouraging masks when out in public and cannot socially distance.”
Sununu also announced the availability of the following coronavirus relief funds: $35 million for housing assistance; $50 million for broadband access; $15 million for homeless shelters; $10 million for private colleges and universities; and $2 million for partnerships with chambers of commerce.
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