City of Lincoln
Mayor's Office
2020 Media Releases
- Date:
- October 23, 2020
- Media Contact:
- Diane Gonzolas, City Communications, 402-441-7831
- Patricia Lopez, RN, MSN, Health Director, 402-441-8000
New Directed Health Measure Will Take Effect November 1
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) today announced the changes to the Directed Health Measure (DHM) that will be in effect from November 1 through 30. The purpose of the DHM is to outline the preventive measures that must be taken in the community to stop the spread of COVID-19. The current DHM expires October 31.
The new DHM includes the following changes:
- Gathering limitations have changed to be in line with the current state DHM. Indoor gatherings are limited to 10 people or 50 percent of occupancy, whichever is greater. Outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people or 75 percent of occupancy, whichever is greater. Both indoor and outdoor events are not to exceed 10,000 people.
- For bars and restaurants, the local DHM has required that parties consist of eight or fewer individuals, and that individuals remain seated unless ordering, using the restroom, or playing games. The most recent state DHM now requires this as well. The local DHM continues to require that parties remain at least six feet apart.
- Any organization conducting youth sports must submit a Sport Activity Plan, and the Health Department must approve the plan before practices or events can occur. The owners of venues in which youth sports occur must limit spectators to 25 percent of capacity. Spectators also must be in groups no larger than eight people, and six feet of distance must be maintained between groups of spectators.
- Gyms, fitness and health centers, martial arts studios, and similar facilities are limited to 10 people or 50 percent of occupancy, whichever is greater. Individuals are also required to stay at least six feet apart. This was reduced from 75 percent to be consistent with the state DHM.
The new local DHM continues the mask mandate. An event plan must continue to be submitted to the Health Department and approved for any gathering that expects 500 or more patrons in attendance at one time. Religious gatherings, including weddings and funerals, continue to be governed by the current state DHM.
Businesses with questions on the DHM may call 402-441-6280. More information on the current DHM and COVID-19 in the community is available at COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov.
