A step in the right direction

NBC10 Boston is reporting that Gov. Charlie Baker is expected to file legislation Tuesday to extend certain COVID-19 emergency measures that are set to expire on June 15 when the State of Emergency ends. One of those measure is outdoor dining! Also included are open meeting law requirements and billing protections for coronavirus patients.

Special permits for expanded outdoor dining

The bill will grant municipalities authority to extend special permits for restaurants offering outdoor dining issued under the State of Emergency through Nov. 29, 2021. Under an Executive Order issued in 2020, municipalities were permitted to use an expedited process to approve temporary permits for new or expanded outdoor dining and alcohol service. Without a legislative extension, special permits granted under the Governor’s Order will expire 60 days after the end of the State of Emergency.

How do you feel about outdoor dining becoming permanent? Take our survey! 

Also read: 5 Reasons Outdoor Dining Should Stick Around Permanently in the Neighborhood

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