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MERIDEN, CT (WFSB) – People in Connecticut can finally take off the masks if they’re fully vaccinated.
The state rolled back restrictions on Wednesday following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance that said those who have gotten COVID-19 shots can return to a more normal life.
In less than 24 hours, all COVID-19 business restrictions will be lifted in Connecticut.
The update arrives just in time for summer.
However, businesses and local government offices may still choose to require masks. In Meriden, everyone still must wear them inside city buildings.
“Ultimately, it’s really to kickstart the tourism economy, make sure there’s consumer confidence,” said Christine Castonguay, CT Office of Tourism interim director.
Hawk Ridge Winery in Watertown says vaccinated people won’t have to wear a mask and there’s no capacity limits in the building or their tent.
They’re relying on the honor code for unvaccinated people to keep wearing masks and encourage anyone to wear one if it makes them feel safer.
All COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted on Wednesday for businesses.
Over in Wethersfield, signs asking for all customers to wear masks are still up at Heirloom Market.
“I do have some younger staff members that are not fully vaccinated yet and they will be in the coming weeks, but right now we were trying to figure out what do to,” said Julia Koulouris, co-owner of Heirloom Market.
The tourism and hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit during the pandemic.
The CT Office of Tourism said last year, its lodging occupancy revenue was down 30 to 50 percent.
Now, it’s seeing more bookings and more attraction tickets being sold.
In Connecticut, officials said unvaccinated people should still wear a mask.
However, people no longer having to social distance and masks are no longer required for vaccinated people outside or inside.
“What I’m looking forward to though is the freedom to go more places,” said Lisa Mull of Wethersfield.
There are some exceptions to the rule.
People in Connecticut can finally take off the masks if they’re fully vaccinated.
Masks will still be required in certain settings, such as healthcare facilities and facilities housing vulnerable populations, public and private transit, correctional facilities, schools, and childcare facilities.
Also, unvaccinated people are still required to wear a mask indoors.
Stay with Channel 3 for more as Connecticut continues to reopen.
Copyright 2021 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
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