Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in Louisiana, Governor John Bel Edwards announces a return to Phase 2 of pandemic restrictions.

According to the Governors website, hospitalizations have increased over 1,000 while the virus has killed over 6,000 citizens of Louisiana.

With the mandate set to last three more weeks, here are the details of the updated Phase 2 proclamation that took effect on November 25th.

• Statewide mask mandate remains in effect.
• Avoid gathering with people who do not reside in your home.
• Working remotely is suggested if possible.
• Bars inside a parish with 5% positivity will close inside areas and only serve outdoors with a 25% capacity and max of 50 people.
• Shops should have a 50% capacity, unless classified as an essential business.
• Gyms can open at only 50% capacity.
• Religious centers may gather with a capacity of 75% while socially distancing with members of their own home.
• Hair salons and barber shops may open with a capacity of 50%.
• Movie theaters can open with a capacity of 50%.
• Inside event and reception centers have a 25% capacity with up to 75 people allowed indoors.
• Outside event and reception centers have a 25% capacity with up to 150 people, with social distancing strongly encouraged.
• Sporting events of all types have a 25% capacity.

Governor Edwards expects the state to go back to Phase 3 in the next three weeks, if Louisianans do their part to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

For more information from the Governor, click here.