On May 17, Governor Baker announced that, due to positive health metrics and the wide availability of vaccines, all remaining COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted effective May 29.
Later that day, Acting Mayor Janey announced that the City of Boston will align with the state's reopening timeline.
Saturday, May 29
Effective May 29, all industries will be permitted to open. With the exception of remaining face-covering requirements for public and private transportation systems and facilities housing vulnerable populations, all industry restrictions will be lifted, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries. The gathering limit will be rescinded at that time.
All industries are encouraged to follow CDC guidance for cleaning and hygiene protocols.
Face Covering Guidance
The Baker-Polito Administration has announced that the current face covering order will be rescinded and a new face covering advisory will be put in place, effective May 29.
Non-vaccinated individuals are advised to continue wearing face masks and to continue distancing in most settings. The advisory will also recommend fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear a face covering or social distance indoors or outdoors except for in certain situations.
Face coverings will still be required for all individuals on public and private transportation (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations), healthcare facilities and providers, congregate care settings and health and rehabilitative day services.
You can find a complete description of mask requirements here.
State of Emergency
Governor Baker will end the State of Emergency on June 15, and the Administration will work with legislative and municipal partners during this period in order to manage an orderly transition from emergency measures adopted by executive order and special legislation during the period of the State of Emergency.
NAIOP's Advocacy Team has been preparing for an end to the State of Emergency and will be working with the Administration, Legislature, and other organizations to address issues affecting the industry. NAIOP continues to focus our advocacy on policies, Executive Orders, dockets and legislation that have the potential to impact real estate and overall economic development here in the Commonwealth.