State issues guidance for weddings, movie theaters in NYC and billiard halls

Posted 22 February 2021 at 7:45 pm

Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Gallagher barn in Medina hosts a wedding outside in this photo from July 2, 2016. It was the first wedding at the venue on North Gravel Road. The barn which is used for receptions has room for 250 people.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that as New York’s hospitalization and Covid-19 infection rates continue to decline, New York is issuing guidance to begin re-opening additional sectors of the economy.

Specifically, billiard halls statewide and movie theaters in New York City are now permitted to re-open. Additionally, guidance is also being released for weddings and catered events which are scheduled to resume on March 15.

“As our infection rate continues to fall, and the vaccination rate continues to climb, we will keep reopening different sectors of our state’s economy and focus our efforts on building our state back better than it was before,” Cuomo said.

In addition, movie theaters that have been closed in any remaining parts of the state may also open in accordance with the guidance.

Specific summary guidelines for each industry are as follows:

OPENING MARCH 5

Movie Theaters in New York City

  • Venues are restricted to 25 percent capacity, with no more than 50 people per screen at a time.
  • Masks will be required at all times except when seated and eating or drinking.
  • Assigned seating will be required in all theaters.
  • Social distancing between parties will be required at all times.
  • Additional staffing will be required to control occupancy, traffic and seating to ensure compliance.
  • Enhanced air filtration, ventilation and purification standards must be met by theaters.
  • This action brings New York City movie theaters in line with movie theaters throughout the rest of the state.

Billiard/Pool Halls

  • Halls are restricted to 50 percent capacity outside of New York City; 35 percent capacity in New York City
  • Masks will be required at all times except when seated and eating or drinking.
  • Mandatory social distancing must be enforced, or physical barriers between parties of patrons/players must be installed.
  • Each party must be assigned to a table to avoid comingling.
  • Staff must rigorously clean and disinfect any rented or shared equipment between use.

BEGINNING MARCH 15

Weddings and Catered Events

  • Venues are restricted to 50 capacity, with no more than 150 people per event.
  • All patrons must be tested prior to the event.
  • Sign-in with contact information required to assist with potential contact tracing.
  • Venues must notify local health departments of large events, above the social gathering limit, in advance.
  • Masks will be required at all times except when seated and eating or drinking.
  • Ceremonial and socially-distanced dancing allowed under strict guidelines.