NOLA Not Moving to Phase 3 With the Rest of Louisiana

When Governor John Bel Edwards announced yesterday that the state of Louisiana would be moving into Phase 3 of the coronavirus restrictions, there was celebration, as well as apprehension from citizens around the state. It is a sign that we are at least moving the needle in the right direction after a year of...well, hell. But with that news comes word from New Orleans that they will not be following the governor's new guidelines for Phase 3.

Administration officials with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said that their city would remain in a modified Phase 2 for the time being. The reason given was the recent loosening of restrictions in the city following Mardi Gras. LaTonya Norton, who is a spokesperson for the mayor's office told NOLA.com "Last week the New Orleans Health Department eased restrictions on gathering sizes and sporting events as a result of a sustained decrease in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Orleans Parish. It is important to monitor the effect those changes may have on transmission." She went on to say that the city would follow CDC guidelines against rolling back restrictions, and remain in modified Phase 2 for now.

As of now some of the restrictions include:

• Parties and events - 75 people indoors, 150 outdoors
• Restaurants, bars, breweries and other businesses - 15 people at a table
• Indoor sports stadiums - 15% capacity, outdoor stadiums - 25% capacity
• Bars in all parishes - 25% capacity, or 50% capacity in parishes below a 5% positivity rate
• Bars will not be allowed to serve alcohol after 11:00 pm

Here's hoping we continue to make progress to get us back to "normal" activities in the near future. Cheers, Louisiana!