Maryland is no longer under a Covid-19 state of emergency. On June 15, Governor Larry Hogan announced during his Covid-19 update that emergency mandates and restrictions will officially end on July 1 followed by a 45-day administrative grace period.
The order to end the state of emergency outlines two phases starting on July 1 and ending on August 15.
“Thanks in large part to the hard work, the sacrifices, and the vigilance of the people of Maryland, we have finally reached the light at the end of that long tunnel,” said Governor Hogan in a news release.
Emergency mandates and restrictions will end on July 1. Restrictions that will be lifted include:
- the statewide mask order
- the recommendation that travelers quarantine or get tested
- the order classifying child care workers as essential workers
While the statewide mask order is lifting, private businesses and local governments are able to set their own policies.
During the second phase, regulations that have been in place due to the pandemic will be relaxed and officially end on August 15. This includes:
- delaying expiration of motor vehicle licenses, permits, and IDs
- calling the Maryland National Guard into active duty
- authorizing licensed pharmacists to administer Covid-19 testing
There are regulations that will not be lifted on August 15, but reinstated such as the order temporarily prohibiting evictions of tenants that have suffered substantial loss of income due to Covid-19 and various healthcare matters.
Governor Hogan’s announcement ending the state of emergency followed a news release that stated over 6 million Marylanders have been vaccinated and the state's seven-day positivity rate continues to reach record lows.
“Each and every one of you—your actions—have made this day possible. I am so proud of our state, and I’m grateful to have had this honor to serve as your governor. Thank you all for being Maryland Strong,” said Governor Hogan.
The state of emergency ending has no impact on the ongoing vaccine campaign. Maryland residents will still have access to receiving the vaccine if they want one.