Nebraska is relaxing its social distancing restrictions again because the number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus has continued to decline.
Gov. Pete Ricketts says the state is moving from the “yellow” phase of its COVID-19 response plan to the “blue” phase, effective tonight at midnight.
The change increases the limit for indoor gatherings to 75% of capacity and moves limitations such as no more than 8 people at a table or bar and restaurant patrons be seated unless ordering food, using the restroom, or playing games are now recommendations instead of requirements.
Ricketts had set as the trigger for moving back into the blue phase and less restrictive Directed Health Measures a 7-day rolling average of hospital beds occupied by COVID-19 patients of under 15%. Today was the 7th straight day at 14%