New COVID-19 restrictions and rules announced by Oklahoma Gov. Stitt

(photo courtesy of KOCO TV)

“A vaccine is on its way but we need to buckle down until then.” Gov. Kevin Stitt. Nov. 16, 2020.

 

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt on Monday announced new restrictions in wake of increased cases of COVID-19 in the state including some aimed at bars and restaurants. He also ordered masks to be worn by anyone visiting state buildings.

While the orders don’t directly affect the state’s energy industry, it certainly will affect those workers who visit bars and restaurants or the state capitol.

The governor ordered bars and restaurants to shut down their in-person business nightly at 11 o’clock, while allowing curbside and drive-through pickup to continue afterward.

As part of his order, tables in restaurants and bars must be six feet apart and if not able, then dividers can be used.

Beginning Tuesday, all state employees will be required to wear a face mask while at work, and visitors to any state building will have to wear one in order to be allowed inside.

The governor’s order came as more pressure was applied to him to order a statewide mandate for the wearing of masks.

While he didn’t go as far as Democrats in the House want, he hinted that more steps could be coming.

“These are our first actions but they will not be our last,” Stitt said.