The Governor’s Office announced on Monday that weddings and indoor catered events may resume statewide, with a maximum of 50% capacity, or a total of 150 people, whichever is less. Health precautions are still required, including:
- Providing proof of a recent negative test result or proof of immunization prior to the event
- Providing guest contact information to the venue to assist with potential contact tracing
- Wearing a mask at all times unless eating or drinking while seated
Dancing must also be socially distanced, and only in designated areas. In addition, venues hosting any such event must notify local health departments at least five days in advance, and must include the following information:
- contact information for the responsible party at the venue
- event name or function
- event address, event date and time
- event duration (including loading and unloading times)
- expected number of event attendees
- expected number of event staff, and
- location on premises (e.g., indoor, outdoor) indicated by description and/or on event floor plan.
Workers should be distanced at six foot intervals, unless the job they are performing makes that impractical, in which case physical barriers may be erected. They must also wear a mask or appropriate face covering at all times.
Indoor tables must be separated by six feet in all directions. Events held outdoors may have as many tables as spacing permits, provided the tables are at least six feet apart in all directions. If that is not possible, physical barriers of at least five feet in height must be erected, being sure not to block fire exits. No more than ten people may sit at a table, whether indoors or outdoors. However, if the event is held in a designated “cluster zone,” no more than four people are allowed at a table.
If you have any questions about the latest reopening guidance, please contact Valerie K. Ferrier, Counsel in Kane Kessler’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, at vferrier@kanekessler.com or 212-519-5107.