Georgia to lift all remaining COVID-19 restrictions

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) announced on Wednesday that all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in the state will be lifted starting Thursday. 

“We know hard-working Georgians cannot endure another year like that last. That is why beginning tomorrow we are loosening the remaining restrictions on our economy here in Georgia,” Kemp said in a video statement Wednesday.

That means Georgia businesses will no longer be required to enforce social distancing, the ban on gatherings will be eliminated and the ability for authorities to shut down businesses that violate restrictions will be taken away. 

“As our COVID-19 numbers continue to trend in the right direction, and with all Georgians age 16 or over now eligible to receive the vaccine, Dr. Toomey and I are now encouraging everyone to roll up their sleeve and get their shot so we can continue making steady progress to return to our way of life in the Peach State,” Kemp said. 

The shelter-in-place requirement is also being lifted in the state, and all suggested measures for businesses will be compiled in one main list.

A host of other states are moving to eliminate COVID-19 requirements as well.

Restrictions are being lifted around the country as millions of Americans are getting vaccinated against the coronavirus.

However, health officials are cautioning against a quick reopening, saying that the pandemic is not over.