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Marion County lifts all COVID capacity restrictions July 1

People who aren't vaccinated are no longer required to wear a mask indoors, but health leaders still recommend it.

INDIANAPOLIS — Marion County has lifted all of its capacity restrictions, effective Thursday, July 1.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Marion County Public Health Department Director Dr. Virginia Caine made the announcement Tuesday afternoon.

This includes allowing full capacity at restaurants, bars, sports venues, gyms and more. 

"Indianapolis is where we need to be to lift restrictions," Hogsett said in the news conference. "It was a long time coming, but Indy is ready."

People who aren't vaccinated are no longer required to wear a mask indoors. However, Hogsett and Caine said it is still highly recommended for unvaccinated individuals to wear a mask indoors.

Social distancing requirements are also no longer in effect.

"Today's announcement marks a milestone in the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the efforts of our residents and businesses, Indy is ready to reopen," Hogsett said on Tuesday. "However, our work is far from over, and we will continue to implement new strategies to ensure all residents have accurate information and access to the vaccine."

City leaders said the decision was based upon a sustained decline in the spread of the virus. The county tracked a positivity rate below 2 percent, in addition to recording fewer than 30 new cases per day.

"Looking at the totality of evidence, we are now in a position to further remove restrictions in Marion County," Caine said. "These changes are only possible because of the thousands of residents who have already received their vaccine. We continue to remind residents that the lifesaving vaccine is the best source of protection for yourself, your family, and your community."

Caine said businesses have the right to set their own rules, such as requiring masks or social distancing.

Federal regulations are still in effect, which includes wearing a mask at airports, while using public transportation or in health care settings.

According to Caine, Marion County has reached the 40 percent mark of fully vaccinated individuals in the entire county, which includes those who aren't yet eligible for the vaccine. Caine said 48 percent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated.

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