Wisconsin gatherings of 50+ people banned

Star Journal

Effective a 12:01 a.m., Tuesday, March 17, a statewide ban on gatherings of 50 or more people goes into effect. Gov. Tony Evers today issued the order in effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. It will be in effect for the duration of the public health emergency.

The order includes gatherings at:

• Public or private schools
• Theaters
• Museums
• Stadiums
• Conference rooms, meeting halls
• Taverns
• Health and fitness centers
• Places of worship
• Restaurants and bars are required to operate at less than 50% capacity or have fewer than 50 people, whichever is less.

According to a press release issued by the governor, "critical infrastructure and services" such as grocery stores, food pantries, childcare centers, pharmacies and hospitals are exempt from the order.

“While it was a difficult decision knowing the impacts on communities, families, workers, and businesses across our state, I believe limiting gatherings to less than 50 people is another critical step we can take in slowing and reducing the spread of COVID-19,” said  Evers. “Keeping folks safe and healthy has to be our top priority during this crisis.”

Evers signed an executive order March 12 that directs the Department of Health Services to "take all necessary and appropriate measures to prevent and respond to incidences of COVID-19." The order allows DHS to authorize state funds to support local health department with costs related to isolation and quarantine as well as the use of the Wisconsin National Guard.