BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker signed an executive order on Friday, May 28, that rescinds most COVID-19 restrictions on May 29 and lifts the State of Emergency across Massachusetts effective June 15.
Over 3.5 million Massachusetts residents received full vaccination for COVID-19 as of this week.
The executive order lifts industry restrictions, including gathering limits, effective Saturday, May 29. Face covering requirements remain in place for public and private transportation systems, hospitals and other facilities housing vulnerable populations.
Baker also issued a modified declaration of a public health emergency that allows the continuation of those exceptions. Under that order, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Public Health will propose to the Public Health Council the continuation of some public health orders in the coming weeks to maintain flexibilities and policies for vaccination, testing and other critical operations.
Baker also filed legislation earlier this week to extend certain emergency measures currently in place via executive orders due to expire on June 15 with the end of the State of Emergency. The bill, if passed by the legislature, extends measures for suspension of certain open meeting law requirements, special permits for expanded outside dining at restaurants, and surprise billing protections for COVID-19 patients.
