New York To Reopen Casinos And Malls Next Week With Coronavirus Restrictions

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday that casinos and malls could reopen in the state with a series of restrictions.

In his announcement, Cuomo said that both casinos and video lottery terminal facilities could reopen their doors on Wednesday.

The facilities would have to limit their capacity to 25% and would need to enforce a face mask requirement except when customers were eating and drinking. Social distancing would also have to be observed in addition to staff monitoring occupancy, traffic flow, and seating to avoid overcrowding.

Enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures would also have to be implemented, and properties would need to follow filtration, ventilation, and purification standards in order to reopen. In addition, no beverages or food will be allowed on the gaming floor.

Casino customers would also need to have six feet of distance between gambling machines, and table games will not be allowed unless physical barriers are placed between players. The Gaming Commission would also need to approve the barrier installation.

The New York Gaming Commission will be monitoring casinos to ensure the safety orders are followed and enforced, Cuomo said.

The governor also announced that New York City malls can reopen on Wednesday with a 50% capacity limit. Face masks will be required by employees and customers, and social distancing guidelines need to be followed.

Mall staff will need to control property occupancy, traffic flow, and seating. Cleaning and sanitation protocols will need to be implemented, and enhanced air filtration, ventilation, and purification systems are required to be in place before doors can be opened to the public.

Malls will also not be allowed to have dining, loitering, or unnecessary congregation, Cuomo said.

"While this pandemic is far from over, our numbers have remained steadily low, so we know our phased, data-driven approach to reopening is the right one," Cuomo said in a statement. “Thanks to the hard work of New Yorkers, we are at a point in our fight against this virus where we can safely reopen malls in New York City as long as they adhere to strict health and safety protocols.

New York, once an epicenter for the coronavirus, has reduced its average coronavirus positivity level to about 1%. The state has reported over 437,000 cases and over 32,900 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.