The Government Relations (GR) Department has been providing advocacy and guidance on a number of issues impacting AKC and dog owners throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes: advocacy to ensure that dog owners continue to be able to access pet supplies and essential services; advocacy to ensure AKC could stay open during the pandemic; liability information related to the holding of events, and advocacy for targeted liability limits related to virus transmission for events in compliance with recognized health and safety guidelines.
The GR team has created two new key issues resources web pages focusing on these issues. The AKC Legislative Action Center’s COVID-19 resources page (www.akcgr.org/covid19) provides daily updates on state regulations impacting dog owners and businesses, events, and blogs on the latest information and how club members and dog owners can continue being effective advocates.
Additionally, GR is advocating for federal and state laws to limit liability for clubs and events related to COVID-19 transmission when events are held in compliance with CDC and other jurisdictional health and safety recommendations. Information about these efforts, the status of various proposals and how clubs/individuals can get involved is available on the COVID-19 Liability key issue page ( http://www.akcgr.org/covidliability).
The following state-by-state updates were provided to the AKC Delegates All Breed Committee on September 11, 2020. These highlights provide current ( as of September 10, 2020) information on status of legislation to limit legal liability for transmission of COVID-19 during the pandemic, and state rules for public gatherings or sporting/recreational events that could impact AKC events.
Every state, and some counties within states have different requirements. This information is designed to provide a general overview and information only. For questions about a specific event, we urge event organizers to contact local officials directly for details and to discuss their specific event. For specific information , visit Working With Public Officials When Planning An Event During COVID-19. For more information visit tools and blogs available at www.akcgr.org/covid19.
All information below and additional public policy information related to COVID-19 impacts on dog ownership and events can be found online at www.akcgr.org under the blue Key Issues tab.
ALABAMA
Gathering Sizes: A Safer At Home order is extended through October 2. Facial coverings are required in public when interacting within 6 feet of people of another household, subject to certain exceptions. Non-work gatherings require 6 feet between persons not from the same household. Indoor and enclosed entertainment venues are limited to 50% of normal occupancy load as determined by the fire marshal. County/Local Variation on Rules: Certain local governments have imposed additional restrictions.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Executive Order extends limited protections. Legislation pre-filed for 2021 session
Quarantine: None required
ALASKA
Began Phase 3 in May 2020
Gathering Sizes: The state has provided suggested guidelines for gatherings of over 250 people and for organized sports and recreation activities.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes – localities may enact stricter guidelines
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Yes (14 days) or proof of negative COVID test within last 72 hours (https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers)
Website: https://covid19.alaska.gov/reopen/
ARIZONA
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings over 50 people must receive local approval
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes for gatherings over 50 people
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: No, but it is recommended that travelers follow posted guidelines (https://www.visitarizona.com/covid-19/)
Website: https://azgovernor.gov/governor/reopening-guidance
ARKANSAS
Gathering Sizes: Outdoor venues for commercial, community and civic events and activities may reopen subject to capacity limitations, social distancing, and sanitation plans approved by the Secretary of Health. Businesses are subject to six-foot distancing and other requirements. Face coverings are required in indoor environments, excluding private residences, subject to certain exceptions. Group events at state parks are limited.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Executive Order
Quarantine: Requirements for travelers are rescinded.
CALIFORNIA
The state is currently in what is being termed as “early Stage 2”. This means that some businesses may reopen if following specific guidelines and protocols. Residents should still only limit time away from the home for essential travel such as shopping and healthcare and outdoor recreation (and recreation only among members of the same household)
Gathering Sizes: Not permitted
County/Local Variation on Rules: Restrictions and guidelines vary by county, depending on the rate of positive tests and new cases. Visit https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy for the latest information on each county.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: AB 1035 passed Assembly, held in the Senate. It currently only applies to businesses and GR is monitoring for amendments. The legislature is adjourned until December
Quarantine: International travel only (https://www.visitcalifornia.com/latest-covid-19-coronavirus)
Website: http://covid19.ca.gov
COLORADO
The state is currently in what is known as “Level 2- Safer at Home and in the Vast, Great Outdoors”.
Gathering Sizes: Use the state’s social distancing calculator to ensure compliance
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes – communities must apply for a variance that will allow for fewer restrictions.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: No, but check local communities for restrictions (https://covid19.colorado.gov/prepare-protect-yourself/prevent-the-spread/travel)
Website: https://covid19.colorado.gov
CONNECTICUT
The state is at Phase II of reopening and under an extended state of emergency until February 9, 2021. Indoor recreation businesses may open at up to 50% capacity; but should ensure compliance with rules for mask wearing, social distancing, and cleaning/disinfecting of equipment and common areas. Businesses for which no maximum capacity is on record may determine maximum Phase II capacity as 1 person (including employees) per 150 square feet. Outdoor gatherings are permitted provided they comply with these outdoor event rules and all executive orders. The current rules for gatherings are as follows: Indoor private gatherings – 25 people; Outdoor private gatherings – 100 people; Outdoor organized gatherings (e.g. fireworks, concerts in municipal parks) – 15 feet of space blanket to blanket, cap of 500 people with event organizer responsible for compliance with guidance. Outdoor event venues (e.g. amphitheaters, racetracks) – 25% of fire capacity and distancing; and Fairs, festivals, and carnivals – up to 25% of last year’s attendance
Connecticut has a travel advisory in effect that requires 14-day quarantining for anyone entering Connecticut from states with high community spread of COVID-19. The list of identified states is updated weekly at https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/travel.
The state legislature adjourned in May without considering any COVID-19 liability legislation.
DELAWARE
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings of less than 250 permitted while gatherings of more than 250 people, approval is needed by the Division of Small Business – if indoor 60% rated capacity or 30 sq. ft. per person
Indoor gatherings allowed at 60% of fire occupancy or allowance of 30 square feet per person.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Executive order limited to health care employees and facilities. Legislature adjourned to call of each chambers chair.
Quarantine: None
For more information click here.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings of more than 50 people prohibited
County/Local Variation on Rules: N/A
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Enacted limited to health care employees and facilities additional legislation under consideration to extend to other entities
Quarantine: Multiple states including a requirement for residents who have traveled to the listed states.
For more information click here.
FLORIDA
Gathering Sizes: Phase 2 reopening continues, except for Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Retail establishments, gyms and fitness centers may operate at full capacity subject to CDC guidance. Restaurants and certain entertainment venues may operate at 50% capacity subject to social distancing and sanitation requirements. People are encouraged to avoid congregating in groups of 50 or more.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Additional restrictions mandated at state level for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Additional local restriction may apply.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: None required
GEORGIA
Gathering Sizes: Effective through October 10, 2020, gatherings of up to 50 people are permitted provided six-foot distancing between each person can be maintained. Businesses not designated as critical infrastructure, companies, organizations, live performance venues, restaurants, etc. shall implement specified measures to mitigate the spread and exposure of COVID-19. Shelter-in-place requirements continue for vulnerable individuals. Local governments may impose certain additional restrictions. See Executive Order for information on requirements for different categories of businesses.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Local governments may impose certain additional restrictions.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Enacted as Georgia COVID-19 Pandemic Business Safety Act
Quarantine: None required
HAWAII
A mandatory 14-day interisland self-quarantine was reinstated on August 11 and is expected to be in place through September 30. This applies to any person arriving to Kauai, Hawaii Island or Maui County (Maui, Molokai, Lanai), and traveling between these islands. It does not include interisland travelers arriving on Oahu. The period of self-quarantine will begin immediately upon arrival, and last 14 days or the duration of the person’s stay on the island, whichever is shorter. For travelers from the mainland and international points of origin, a 14-day mandatory self-quarantine applies, including by private and commercial aircraft. The implementation of the state’s pre-travel testing program—which would require all passengers arriving from out-of-state to get valid COVID-19 NAAT test within 72 hours of boarding their flight to Hawaii, and show proof of negative result upon arrival at the airport, to avoid a 14-day quarantine—has been delayed at least until October 1. For more information, go to https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/news/alerts/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/ and https://health.hawaii.gov/coronavirusdisease2019/travel/travel-advisories/.
On Oahu, no indoor or outdoor gatherings have been permitted since August 18 and is expected to last at least through mid-September. Additionally, no parties larger than five people are permitted to gather; no groups larger than five at restaurants are permitted; no groups larger than five people are permitted to participate in outdoor, recreational, commercial boating activities; no social gatherings are permitted in businesses; and beaches and parks remained closed.
IDAHO
Idaho is now in Stage 4, meaning gatherings of all sizes are allowed and all businesses open so long as certain protocols are in place
Gathering Sizes: There is no limit on gathering sizes, so long as protocols in place (https://rebound.idaho.gov/stage-4-stay-healthy-guidelines/)
County/Local Variation on Rules: Some counties/cities have restrictions, and it is recommended that clubs check with local officials.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Yes, HB 6 was signed by the governor, and is in effect until July 2021
Quarantine: Yes in certain counties/cities. Visit https://visitidaho.org/covid-19-travel-alert/ for more information.
Website: https://rebound.idaho.gov
ILLINOIS
The state is now in Phase 4 of recovery and is reopening by region.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people, but subject to change based on data and testing.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Opening/phases determined by region – check the Regional Dashboard for more information.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Not statewide, but certain cities, such as Chicago have restrictions. Check with local officials for the latest information.
Website: https://coronavirus.illinois.gov
INDIANA
The state is in “Phase 4.5” until at least September 25.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 250 people following certain guidelines. Over 250 must be approved. Further event guidelines may be found on the “Back on Track Indiana” website.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Local health officials must approve events over 250 people
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: None, but events with travelers from outside the state are considered higher risk
Website: https://backontrack.in.gov
IOWA
Current restrictions are in place until September 20, unless extended.
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings of more than 10 permitted if reasonable measures are taken
County/Local Variation on Rules: Some restrictions in certain cities/counties
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: None, but the state reminds travelers that individual venues may have travel restrictions
Website: https://coronavirus.iowa.gov
KANSAS
The state continues to remain in an extended Phase 3
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings over 45 people “not recommended”
County/Local Variation on Rules: Localities may enact further restrictions.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Vetoed
Quarantine: Yes for international travel, travel out of state to gatherings of more than 500 people
Website: https://covid.ks.gov/
KENTUCKY
Gathering Sizes: Face coverings are required in public through October 6, subject to certain exceptions. Mass gatherings are reduced to 10 people or fewer effective 7/20/20 and continuing until rescinded. Minimum requirements and “Healthy at Work” guidance for various businesses, event venues, pet grooming and boarding, attractions, gatherings, and other categories can be viewed at https://healthyatwork.ky.gov.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Additional local restrictions may apply.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: As currently enacted, only applies to health care providers and certain manufacturers/ suppliers of specified medical equipment.
Quarantine: Recommended, not required, that visitors from states with a coronavirus testing positivity rate of 15% or more should quarantine for 14 days.
LOUISIANA
Gathering Sizes: Phase 2 reopening continues. The Governor’s decision regarding moving to Phase 3 is pending. Certain businesses may operate under 50% occupancy limits, sanitation guidelines, and social distancing requirements. Social distancing shall be practiced in groups of any size, and large indoor gatherings are limited to 250 people in a single indoor space. Crowd sizes are limited to 50 people in any single outdoor space where individuals will be in proximity and unable to maintain strict social distancing. Crowd size limitations shall not apply to essential businesses or any business or organization operating at 50% capacity. Information on “Can This Business Open” and FAQ.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Two Acts grant certain liability protections
Quarantine: None required
MAINE
Maine has extended its state of emergency through October 1, 2020. The number of individuals that can gather in a shared space must not exceed the limit established by the Governor’s Executive Order, currently set at 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors. The state provides guidance on planning large gatherings and highlights features to consider at https://www.maine.gov/decd/checklists/large-social-gatherings. Under the state’s travel advisory, adults who obtain and receive a negative COVID-19 test from a specimen taken no longer than 72 hours prior to arrival can forgo the 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Maine so long as they complete a Certificate of Compliance form. Residents from the following states are exempt from the testing and 14-day quarantine requirement: Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey.
The state legislature adjourned in March without considering any COVID-19 liability legislation.
MARYLAND
Gathering Sizes: Large mass gatherings are not allowed. Permitted events may be allowed depending on jurisdiction.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes, for permitted gatherings depending on factors that include the size and nature of the event.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None – Legislative session ended
Quarantine: None
For more information click here.
MASSACHUSETTS
Governor Baker signed an updated gatherings order, effective Tuesday, August 11, reducing the limit on outdoor gatherings from 100 to 50 people on both public and private property. The indoor gatherings limit remains at 25 people. Both types require face coverings where more than 10 people from different households will be mixing. Due to the recent increase in positive cases, step two of phase III of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan has been postponed indefinitely.
Visitors to Massachusetts, including returning residents, who do not meet an exemption, are required to complete the Massachusetts Travel Form prior to arrival, unless you are visiting from a lower-risk state designated by the Department of Public Health, quarantine for 14 days or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72-hours prior to your arrival in Massachusetts. Details can be found here https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-travel-order .
A few COVID-19 liability bills have been filed in Massachusetts, which has extended its formal session, but none have been enacted.
MICHIGAN
Gathering Sizes: Varies based on region, but approximately 10 indoors and 100 outdoors
County/Local Variation on Rules: Reopening by region, check with local health department for guidelines
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: HB 6030 in House Judiciary Committee, hearing on 9/9
Quarantine: Local restrictions may apply: https://www.michigan.org/guidelinesfortravelers
Website: www.michigan.gov/coronavirus
MINNESOTA
Minnesota remains in Phase III of its Stay Safe Plan. A state-wide executive order requiring individuals to wear face masks while in indoor public settings went into effect on July 25. For more information, go to https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/stay-safe-mn/stay-safe-plan.jsp. Travelers to the state are encouraged to seek guidance from the CDC and the Minnesota Department of Health in order to make fact-based travel decisions. Outdoor gatherings of 25 or less and indoor gatherings of 10 or less people are permitted. Outdoor events and entertainment are permitted if attendees maintain six feet of social distance and gatherings must not exceed 250 people.
MISSISSIPPI
Gathering Sizes: As extended through September 14, businesses and non-profits may reopen subject to Executive Orders and CDC and Mississippi State Department of Health guidelines. Retail businesses are limited to 50% of capacity. Social gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 20 people outdoors, subject to social distancing, with certain exceptions for classrooms and religious entities. A distance of six feet or more must be maintained at all public events, indoors and out, or else face coverings must be worn. Arena attendance is limited to 25% of full capacity.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Enhanced safety protocols have been required in 37 counties.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Senate Bill 3049 enacted
Quarantine: None required
MISSOURI
The state is in Phase 2 of recovery, meaning there is no longer a statewide order, but local governments may enact their own regulations
Gathering Sizes: No statewide limit
County/Local Variation on Rules: Localities may enact own regulations
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Localities may enact regulations
Website: https://governor.mo.gov/show-me-strong-recovery-plan-guidance-and-frequently-asked-questions
MONTANA
The state is in Phase 2 of reopening.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people (More than 50 must be pre-approved)
County/Local Variation on Rules: Local public health officer approves events over 50 people
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Quarantine has been lifted.
Website: https://covid19.mt.gov
NEBRASKA
The entire state is in either Phase 3 or 4 of reopening. Those in Phase 3 will remain so until at least September 13, and those in Phase 4 until at least September 30.
Gathering Sizes: For counties in Phase 4- Indoor may be at 75% capacity, outdoor at 100% with social distancing. For counties in Phase 3 – Indoor may be 50% capacity, outdoor at 75%.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Gatherings over 500 (or over 1000 in counties with a population over 500,000) must be approved by local health department for both phases. County Health Directives are in place for each county.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Yes – All international travel. Also, if in state less than 14 days, visitors should self-monitor and self-quarantine
NEVADA
Nevada remains in phase 2 of reopening, but residents are still encouraged to stay home and limit travel to the extent possible.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people (View more guidelines for events online at this link, beginning at page 13)
County/Local Variation on Rules: The state’s Mitigation Task Force develops further guidelines for counties deemed to be of concern
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: No entering state if exhibiting symptoms, mandatory quarantine for international travel (https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/info/travelers-visitors/)
Website: https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/
NEW HAMPSHIRE
The state is operating under a plan of “Safer at Home” with universal minimum guidelines that can be enforced with civil penalties outlined in Executive Order # 65. Instead of gathering limits, the state has posted guidance based on social distancing requirements for a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, which can be viewed here. In addition to many towns and cities that have initiated their own individual ordinances, the state now requires face coverings for certain scheduled gatherings of 100 or more individuals, as part of the state’s response to COVID-19.
If visiting New Hampshire from out of state (excluding New England) for an overnight trip at a lodging property, you’re required to provide signed documentation stating you remained at home for at least a 14-day quarantine period prior to arriving in the state. This documentation will be provided at your lodging destination. A complete lodging guidance can be viewed here.
The state legislature considered one bill relative to the liability of directors and officers of New Hampshire nonprofit corporations, but narrowly voted it down.
NEW JERSEY
In partnership with New York and Connecticut, all individuals entering New Jersey from states with a significant spread of COVID-19 will be required to quarantine for 14-days. Effective June 25, the quarantine applies to any person, including New Jersey residents, arriving from a state with a positive COVID-19 test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents over a 7-day rolling average or a state with a 10% or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average. Currently (9/8), the states and territories that meet the criteria for quarantine are AL, AK, AR, CA, DE, FL, GA, GU, HI, ID, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NC, ND, OH, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, and WI. For more information, go to https://covid19.nj.gov/index.html. Governor Murphy has issued executive orders that require face coverings in outdoor public spaces when physical distancing is not possible and limited most indoor gatherings to a maximum of 25 people. Indoor gatherings must be limited to 25 people or 25% of a room's capacity -- whichever number is lower. All attendees at indoor gatherings must wear face coverings and stay six feet apart. Outdoor gatherings must be limited to 500 people and social distancing must be practiced. Legislation has also been introduced in New Jersey that would limit business’ liability exposure due to illness or death caused by COVID-19. They include A3951, A4189, A4377, A4388, A4440, A4497, S2634, and S2703. More information on COVID-19 liability limitation information is available at https://akcgr.org/akc/covid19.
NEW MEXICO
The governor has extended the state of emergency orders through September 18
Gathering Sizes: Up to 10 people
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None. Bill failed in special session.
Quarantine: All traveling from out of state must quarantine for 14 days if the state has a higher than 5% positive rate, unless you can show a negative COVID test taken within the last 72 hours.
Website: https://cv.nmhealth.org
NEW YORK
All regions are in Phase 4 of recovery
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people, but there are guidelines for recreation events, etc. “Low-risk” indoor and outdoor “arts and entertainment” are permitted (view links for more information).
County/Local Variation on Rules: Reopened by region
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None currently, except for bills relating solely to employers. AKC GR is monitoring. The General Assembly is not currently in session.
Quarantine: A 14-day quarantine is mandatory for all those entering New York from states with a higher than 10 percent COVID-19 test positivity rate over the last seven days.
Website: https://forward.ny.gov/
NORTH CAROLINA
The state is in “Phase 2.5” as of September 4, 2020.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people outdoors, 25 indoors. Additional guidelines have been published for larger venues.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes, localities may have additional regulations, with certain restrictions.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Yes. Signed into law in July 2020
Quarantine: None statewide, but travelers encouraged to check with local governments
Website: www.nc.gov/covid19
NORTH DAKOTA
Most counties in North Dakota have remained at a low (aka, green) or “new normal” (i.e., lowest) COVID-19 risk level; however, Barnes, Benson, Burleigh, Grand Forks, McLean, Morton, Stark, and Williams counties are at moderate risk level. The state’s Smart Restart Protocols provides detailed guidance for business operations under each prescribed risk level, and may be viewed at https://ndresponse.gov/covid-19-resources/covid-19-business-and-employer-resources/nd-smart-restart/nd-smart-restart-protocols. Standards for large gatherings are dependent upon risk level determination, and may be viewed at https://ndresponse.gov/sites/www/files/documents/covid-19/ND%20Smart%20Restart/Large%20Gatherings/SmartRestart_Gatherings.pdf. The state does not have any travel restrictions in place for domestic visitors.
OHIO
Gathering Sizes: Up to 10 people, but exceptions for non-contact sporting events
County/Local Variation on Rules: Event permits reviewed by state and local health department
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Yes if traveling to/from a state with higher than 15% positive rate
Website: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov
OKLAHOMA
The state is in Phase 3 of reopening
Gathering Sizes: No restrictions, but people are encouraged to “limit time spent in crowded environments” and practice social distancing.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Local governments may enact own restrictions based on what is deemed best for the community
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Yes. Governor signed in May 2020
Quarantine: Those traveling from areas with “substantial community spread” should limit participating in indoor gatherings for 10-14 days, in accordance with CDC guidelines.
Website: https://www.governor.ok.gov/
OREGON
Gathering Sizes: Indoor social gatherings up to 10 people. Indoor venues up to 100 people. County variances also in effect (https://govstatus.egov.com/reopening-oregon)
County/Local Variation on Rules: Reopening varies by county
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: Check local county for restrictions
Website: https://govstatus.egov.com/reopening-oregon
PENNSYLVANIA
Gathering Sizes: Indoor events with gatherings of more than 25 persons are prohibited; Outdoor events with gatherings of more than 250 persons are prohibited.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Executive order applying to health care workers and facilities. Numerous bills have been introduced with limited action. Legislature in session until November 30.
Quarantine: Multiple states including residents who have traveled to state on list
For more information click here.
RHODE ISLAND
Under Phase III, Rhode Island allows outdoor and indoor event venues to open at 66%
capacity, as long as social distancing and other public health measures can be maintained. However, the indoor and outdoor social gathering limit was lowered to 15 people as social gatherings have been the source of many positive cases. Those coming to Rhode Island from one of the states listed on their website with a positivity rate of COVID-19 greater than 5%, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days while in Rhode Island. As an exception, you may provide proof of a negative test for COVID-19 that was taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Rhode Island.
No COVID-19 liability legislation has been filed in Rhode Island.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Gathering Sizes: Capacity, social distancing, and masking guidelines for establishments that attract large groups remain in effect. Attendance may not exceed 50% of the certificate of occupancy or 250 persons, whichever is less. Guidelines for businesses and organizations can be viewed here.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: None
SOUTH DAKOTA
The state’s Department of Health provides detailed COVID-19 updates and information at https://doh.sd.gov/news/coronavirus.aspx. The state does not have any travel restrictions in place for visitors.
TENNESSEE
Gathering Sizes: Executive orders pertaining to COVID-19 are extended through September 30. The state’s economic recovery group issued updated guidelines for businesses. Retail stores should limit customers, and gyms, hair salons, spas and similar close-contact businesses should implement social distancing and sanitation practices. Social and recreational gatherings should maintain social distancing. Guidance is provided for attractions, large venues, and large community events.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Certain counties and cities have imposed additional restrictions. 89 counties may impose certain local restrictions. Six county health departments have authority and are not subject to the Governor's reopening plan: Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, Madison, Shelby, and Sullivan.
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Enacted as Tennessee COVID-19 Recovery Act
Quarantine: None required
TEXAS
On July 2, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed additional executive orders. One requires all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions. Following a verbal or written warning for a first-time violator of Gov. Abbott’s face-covering requirement, a person’s second violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $250. Each subsequent violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $250 per violation. The governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than ten and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others. For more information, go to https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/coronavirus/opentexas.aspx.
The state has issued operational guidance for Adult Recreational Sports Operators and Outdoor Sports Participants.
UTAH
The majority of the state is in either the “yellow” or “green” phase of reopening.
Gathering Sizes: Yellow phase – Up to 50 people w/ social distancing, Green phase – No restrictions with protocols in place
County/Local Variation on Rules: Counties in various stages of reopening with different guidelines
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Yes. Governor signed in June 2020
Quarantine: No restrictions
Website: https://coronavirus.utah.gov
VERMONT
All Vermonters are required to wear masks or cloth facial coverings any time it is not possible to maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from others from outside their household. Under the Governor’s last order viewed here, each city and town is allowed to enact local requirements regarding gathering size limitations that are more restrictive than those established by the State.
For sporting events, beginning September 8, cloth face coverings must be worn by all players, coaches, officials, staff and spectators at all times when physical distance of six feet cannot be consistently maintained, including during practices, scrimmages, games, meets and competitions for sports that involve contact or close proximity. Indoor sporting activities should only be considered when there is no viable outdoor alternative. The total number of people present at any meet or competition may not exceed current limits on indoor event size – currently 75. Details for all sporting activities can be viewed here.
Visitors to Vermont must quarantine for 14 days but, have the option to get a PCR test on or after day 7 of quarantine and end the quarantine with a negative test result. Exceptions to this requirement include travelers from certain counties with low rates of active cases; people traveling for essential purposes and people who live near the Vermont border and regularly travel to and from a neighboring state. No COVID-19 liability legislation has been filed in Vermont.
VIRGINIA
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings should be limited to 50% occupancy of the event space, if applicable, or 250 participants, whichever is less.
County/Local Variation on Rules: Yes – communities must apply for it
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Executive order applying to health care workers and facilities. HB 5074 and SB 5067 currently under consideration during special session scheduled to end September 18.
Quarantine: None
For more information click here.
WASHINGTON
Gathering Sizes: This varies based on the phase of reopening in the county where the gathering will be held. There are additional guidelines for outdoor recreational activities.
County/Local Variation on Rules: The state is reopening by county
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: No statewide quarantine, but check with localities for any local restrictions. Limit travel between counties. Full guidance may be found at: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/travelers-commuters
Website: https://coronavirus.wa.gov
WEST VIRGINIA
Gathering Sizes: Gatherings limited to 25 individuals. The limitation does not apply to any activity, business, or entity that has been deemed essential.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None – Legislative session ended.
Quarantine: None
For more information click here.
WISCONSIN
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has struck down the governor’s previous orders, so the safer at home and “Badger Bounce Back” regulations are not currently in effect.
Gathering Sizes: No restrictions
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: None
Quarantine: No restrictions
Website: https://govstatus.egov.com/wi-covid-19
WYOMING
Current restrictions are in place until at least September 15.
Gathering Sizes: Up to 50 people, but up to 250 for events with COVID screening and other protocols. An additional 250 attendees may be present in addition to participants (depending on the size of the venue), so long as no more than 6 people sit together, and social distancing and other protocols are in place.
County/Local Variation on Rules: None
COVID-19 Liability Limitation Law: Yes. Signed in May 2020
Quarantine: No travel restrictions.
Website: https://health.wyo.gov
