North Dakota’s Republican Governor Doug Burgum has enacted a statewide mask mandate and occupancy limits on businesses in a surprising move by the state that has been fighting calls for more mandates over the last several months.
North Dakota has one of the highest COVID-19 rates per capita in the country and it continues to climb at a record rate. In the last week, 1 in 83 people in North Dakota tested positive for COVID-19.
Residents must wear face coverings in businesses, indoor public places, and outdoor public settings where social distancing cannot be maintained. The order includes exemptions for children under five years of age, people attending religious services, and those with disabilities that make mask-wearing unreasonable.
The order goes into effect on Saturday, November 14, and will remain on the books through December 14.
Restaurants and bars will need to limit on-site service to 50% of their normal occupancy, and cap the number of patrons at 150. Event venues and ballrooms will be limited to 25% of normal maximum occupancy. Restaurants and bars will have a curfew from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., during which in-person service is prohibited. Burgum said carryout and delivery will still be permitted during the night hours.
The start of the winter high school sports season in North Dakota will be delayed until December 14.
