Governor Chris Sununu announced Thursday that the state was easing some of its business restrictions as COVID-19 cases and deaths across the country fell.
During a press conference, Sununu said some requirements for travel, retail, restaurants, cosmetics companies, and camps have been lifted. However, the governor stressed that the nationwide mask mandate would remain in place.
“As our numbers in both hospital admissions and deaths and vaccinations are falling … we want to provide additional flexibility based on the data we see here,” he said during the press conference.
The state quarantine requirement for individuals traveling to New Hampshire from outside New England is now only a recommendation. However, the change only applies to domestic travelers, not to travelers from other countries.
He said 2020 was an especially tough year for the tourism industry and he wants these companies to be ready for the busy season ahead.
“You took the brunt of the hit last year,” said Sununu. “And we just want to make sure we prepare somehow. We’re staying a little ahead of the game in terms of chances for the coming summer. So we see this as just a sensible move.”
In addition, bars and restaurants can again allow karaoke, billiards, darts and other activities. The shops can be fully utilized again, while hairdressers and salons can reopen their waiting rooms and accept accessible customers again.
You can find the latest instructions for companies at nh.gov/covid19/resources-guidance/businesses.htm.
