COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster says on Monday, March 1st alcohol sales will be allowed past the 11 p.m. curfew and restrictions on large gatherings will be lifted in South Carolina.
βWith the spread of the virus consistently decreasing across the country and more of the most vulnerable South Carolinians being vaccinated every day, I believe these targeted and limited safety measures are no longer necessary,β said Gov. Henry McMaster. βThe virus is still among us and we all must continue to make responsible decisions to take care of ourselves and our loved ones, but those decisions are for South Carolinians to make.β
Health officials say approval for large gatherings will be no longer required by the Department of Commerce, but it is recommended to follow these guidelines when gathering in the state;
- Limit attendance of large gatherings to either 50% of the event spaceβs posted occupancy limit or fewer than 250 people.
- All employees, customers, patrons, suppliers, vendors, visitors or other people in attendance at a large gathering should wear a face covering.
- Organizers, operators, owners, or hosts of a large gathering shall take reasonable steps to incorporate, implement, comply with, and adhere to any relevant sanitation, βsocial distancing,β and hygiene guidelines established by the CDC, DHEC, or any other state or federal public health officials.
Governor McMaster says residents are still strongly encouraged to continue wearing face masks and to practice social distancing.
βMany South Carolinians have done their part by practicing the prevention measures we know work,β said DHEC Director Dr. Edward Simmer. βWe are here today because of our citizensβ careful and ongoing efforts and we thank you for taking care of each other and putting your community and people first. I urge you to continue wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart, staying home and away from others if youβre sick and when itβs your time, get a safe and effective vaccine. Working together, we will defeat COVID-19.β
