Bryan eased some COVID-19 restrictions in U.S. Virgin Islands

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said during a COVID-19 press briefing on October 13, 2020, that the U.S. Virgin Islands would ease several restrictions after the territory's virus positivity rate declined.

Effective October 13, churches and other houses of worship were allowed to operate at 50% of capacity or 100 people, whichever was less. The government also suspended the requirement that disposable dishes, utensils, napkins and drink containers be used.

Effective November 9, 2020, mass gatherings were set to increase to no more than 100 people for indoor and outdoor activities, or 50% of capacity. Bars that could not provide seated service were to remain closed, while bars and nightclubs were allowed to reopen for seated service only. Standing around bar counters was barred, and seated patrons were required to be spaced in accordance with Health Department guidelines.

Also beginning November 9, live music and disc jockey entertainment were to be allowed in licensed establishments, but not after midnight.

Bryan also called on residents to report and oppose illegal activity that he said contributed to violent crime in the community.

The government said the Virgin Islands Department of Labor had issued 41,545 unemployment insurance checks totaling more than $31.9 million, along with 27,657 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation checks totaling about $42.4 million. It also said $4.49 million in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and $1.57 million in Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation had been issued.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue extended the deadline to file a return to receive a stimulus check from October 15 to November 21, 2020.

Government House reported 16 active COVID-19 cases in the territory as of October 13, with 21,964 people tested, 1,325 positive cases, 1,289 recoveries and 20 deaths. It said no COVID-19 patients were hospitalized at Juan F. Luis Hospital on St. Croix and four were hospitalized at Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-eases-some-covid-19-restrictions/