The state of Nevada will be under a “statewide pause” for the next three weeks, Fox News reports.
In an attempt to curb the number of rising coronavirus cases, Gov. Steve Sisolak announced new coronavirus restrictions, including an enhanced mask mandate and capacity limits, that will go into effect Tuesday.
Sisolak announced the changes during a Sunday press conference and tweeted out information about the soaring number of cases.
He noted that 13 of the state’s 17 counties were "flagged for elevated risk of transmission." Last month, he said only two counties were marked high risk.
"Our statewide positivity rate is at a record 16.5%, and as I mentioned, we’ve surpassed 2,000 deaths,” he said, noting the state’s growth in cases is outpacing other states at "wildfire levels."
"All available models indicate that Nevada is in a 'red zone' and our health experts anticipate continued case growth based on current trends," he said. "In fact, 10% of all COVID cases recorded in Nevada since the beginning of the pandemic were reported in the last seven days. Every minute, a Nevadan is diagnosed with COVID-19."
Under the new statewide pause, all residents and visitors must wear a mask at all times both indoors and outdoors when they are not in the presence of someone who is part of their household.
Restaurants and bars will have occupancy cut to 25%, no more than four people will be allowed at one table, and reservations will be required. Gyms, fitness centers, dance studios, and martial arts studios also must operate under 25% capacity. Masks must be worn at all times in these settings unless a patron is actively drinking.
Other businesses such as museums, art galleries, libraries, zoos and aquariums, arcades, racetracks, bowling alleys, mini golf, amusement, and theme parks will now operate from 50% to 25% capacity. All gaming operations will be limited to 25% occupancy as well.
Any public gathering must be under 50 people or 25% of the fire code capacity — whichever is less. Social distancing protocols must be followed.
Schools will remain open because of the negative impact closures had on students, Sisolak said.
"We have seen more deaths by suicide among students this fall than in years prior, and it breaks my heart to share that victims have included students as young as 8 years old," Sisolak said.
He said if cases don’t slow during the pause, he will take “stronger action.”
Marisa Herman ✉
Marisa Herman, a Newsmax senior reporter, focuses on major and investigative stories. A University of Florida graduate, she has more than a decade of experience as a reporter for newspapers, magazines, and websites.
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