New Jersey will loosen up its strict measures and expand its indoor capacity by 50% on March 19, including gyms, restaurants, casinos, and personal care places.
New Jersey Loosens up Measures in Public Places
On Wednesday, Gov. Phil Murphy announced that New Jersey would increase the capacity from 35% to 50% for restaurants, casinos, gyms, personal care places as of March 19. Seating at bars will not be allowed. Indoor private gatherings will also increase to 25 people and outdoor ones up to 50 people.
The number of COVID-19 patients has fallen and has remained low, according to data from the past five weeks. He said that on February 5, after the last capacity change, there were less than 2900 patients, and that number has lowered by 1000 since then. According to him, this would lead to further loosening of the restrictions.
The indoor venues reopened at 25% before Labor Day weekend. Last month the governor increased the capacity to 35%. The state’s health officials reported 3047 cases on Wednesday, and a total of 729 403 overall confirmed cases. The state’s population is around 9 million people.
Requirements at New Jersey Casinos
Casinos and sports wagering venues have to comply with the requirements and promote social distancing and hygiene. Some of the reopening protocols at casinos include guests and employees wearing a mask in all public areas.
They will have to lower their masks for transactions or surveillance purposes. Employees for symptoms or fever at the beginning of their shift will receive a screening. Guests will also receive a screening by employees through questions about symptoms and possible exposure to COVID-19.
It is advisable for employees who can work from home to continue to do so. Casinos in New Jersey work hard to ensure the safety of customers and staff members. Although recovering in New Jersey is an ongoing process, the numbers show that there is room for optimism.
Online Gaming Is a Welcomed Aid in New Jersey
In the first month of the year, casinos in New Jersey announced 295.7 million in revenue combining online and sports gambling. Atlantic City’s 9 casinos reported a 9.3% increase thanks to growing interest in online gambling and betting, along with higher Super Bowl activity. Ocean Casino recorded a 31.6%, or $26 million increase, and Hard Rock was the only casino that recorded growth for 4 months in a roll. Borgata posted a 10.5% growth with 75.4 million in revenue.
Meanwhile, PlayStar’s online casino will launch in the 4th quarter of 2021 in New Jersey with GiG as its official technology partner, and it will be a debut for PlayStar Casino on the US market. The company has chosen New Jersey due to its significant growth and development in the industry since legalization.