Governor Baker postpones step 2 phase 3 due to COVID-19 case uptick, reduces outdoor gathering count, creates task force

Governor Charlie Baker on Friday announced that he is reducing the limit of outdoor gatherings to 50 people from 100.

The move will be in effect on August 11th.

Baker, in a tone that made it clear he wasn’t happy, also indefinitely postponed level 2 of the phase 3 reopening plan.

Baker is revising the executive order in addition to creating a set of initiatives to help contain the virus.

Restaurant guidelines would be made clear that bars masquerading as restaurants need to be closed.

Baker reiterated his displeasure with those who are organizing big parties and those who are not wearing masks and following protocols.

The revised executive order will apply to both public and private property.

The governor is also authorizing all state and local police officers to enforce his COVID-19 orders and issue fines when necessary.

Baker is also creating a COVID-19 enforcement and intervention task force to increase enforcement in high-risk communities. Closing of parks and other venues could occur if communities are not adhering to the protocols.

In a related move, Baker stated that it is ok for Rhode Island residents to shop at a grocery store over the Massachusetts border as long as a face mask is worn.