Mills lifts curfew on Maine nighttime business operations

Maine restaurants, bars, movie theaters and other businesses may get a boost beginning Monday, when they can again keep their doors open past 9 p.m.

Gov. Janet Mills said Thursday she is ending the state curfew on business operations because recent health measurements show improvement in Maine’s battle against COVID-19. The closing time requirement, which applies to most businesses that seat customers, went into effect Nov. 20 in an effort to curb spread of the disease.

On Thursday, Maine reported a seven-day COVID-19 positive testing rate of 3.64%, a decrease from 5.89% on Dec. 31, 2020. In addition, the state’s seven-day new case rate has declined by 35% in the last two weeks.

“We are beginning to round the corner on the post-holiday surge of COVID-19,” Mills said in a news release. “With these improved public health metrics, and with the holidays behind us, it is appropriate to remove the early closing time requirement.”

While they will be free as of Monday to seat customers after 9 p.m., businesses must continue to follow Maine’s COVID-19 Prevention Checklists and should heed other precautions, she added.

“This pandemic is far from over. As we continue to get shots into as many peoples’ arms as quickly and efficiently as possible, it is crucial that Maine people continue to wear masks, watch their distance, and avoid gatherings whenever possible. Doing these basic things will help us put a lid on this virus and get back to normal faster. That will be great for Maine people and great for Maine businesses.”

The early business closure addressed the higher risk of COVID-19 transmission during late evening hours, when people are less likely to adhere to public health measures. The curfew — similar to ones in other Northeastern states — allowed businesses to continue curbside pick-up and delivery service after 9 p.m. The requirement was extended on Dec. 30, 2020.