In a typical summer, Rhode Island and Massachusetts are popular tourist destinations, and a big reason for that is their miles of beautiful coastline and beaches.<\/p>\n
But this year, due to the ongoing pandemic, both states have a number of restrictions in place in order to reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.<\/p>\n
Heres a breakdown of the rules and regulations currently in place in both states:<\/p>\n
Rhode Island<\/p>\n
When Phase 3 began at the end of June, Gov. Gina Raimondo put new travel restrictions in place, which included a mandatory 14-day quarantine for anyone coming into Rhode Island from a state with a positivity rate of 5% or higher. A running list of those states can be found here, which is updated weekly and currently consists of 32 states and Puerto Rico.<\/p>\n
Anyone who can show theyve tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours is exempt. Travelers, even if asymptomatic, can sign up for a free test here.<\/p>\n
If you get tested after entering Rhode Island, the state asks that you quarantine until you receive your results.<\/p>\n
The following people are also exempt from the restrictions, according to Raimondos office:<\/p>\n
Massachusetts<\/p>\n
Beginning August 1, anyone entering Massachusetts (visitors and returning residents alike) from a state considered high-risk for COVID-19 has to fill out a travel form and self-quarantine for 14 days or produce a negative test result.<\/p>\n
Those found to be in violation of the order could be fined $500 per day.<\/p>\n
There are exemptions, which include people traveling from one of eight lower-risk states all of New England, New York, New Jersey and Hawaii along with people commuting to work or school, people receiving specialized medical treatment, and military personnel.<\/p>\n
To be considered lower-risk, a states average daily cases must be below six per 100,000 people and the positive test rate has to be below 5%. The Mass. Department of Public Health will continue to update the list based on public health data.<\/p>\n
VisitMass.govor text MATraveler to 888-777 for more information.<\/p>\n
Rhode Island<\/p>\n
The parking lots at state beaches are currently limited to 75% capacity with the exception of Misquamicut and Scarborough, which are capped at 25% due to recurring reports of overcrowding.<\/p>\n
Real-time parking information is posted on RIParks.com.<\/p>\n
Related: Ocean, Bay & Beach Forecast and other Resources <\/p>\n
Beachgoers must maintain at least six feet of distance from other household groups, which should be limited to 15 people.<\/p>\n
Visitors should also have a face covering handy and wear it when in the vicinity of others, such as in the restrooms or at the snack bar.<\/p>\n
And if you feel sick stay home.<\/p>\n
Massachusetts<\/p>\n
All state beaches are open to the public but may have reduced parking areas to limit crowds.<\/p>\n
Beach blanket groups should be no larger than 10 people and spaced at least 12 feet apart, while visitors are required to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between other beachgoers.<\/p>\n
Picnic areas should be closed if adequate social distancing cannot be maintained, and shuttle services to the beach may operate at 50% capacity.<\/p>\n
Face coverings are required but should not be worn while swimming.<\/p>\n
Stay Informed | Coronavirus Updates<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Read the original here:<\/p>\n
Travel\/Beach Restrictions: Heres what you need to know in RI, Mass. - WPRI.com<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In a typical summer, Rhode Island and Massachusetts are popular tourist destinations, and a big reason for that is their miles of beautiful coastline and beaches. But this year, due to the ongoing pandemic, both states have a number of restrictions in place in order to reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Heres a breakdown of the rules and regulations currently in place in both states: Rhode Island When Phase 3 began at the end of June, Gov. Continue reading