virus worsens NC reluctant add restrictions

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has issued an executive order that will soon allow residents to go to gyms but keep them prohibited from entering bars.

The mass gathering limit will increase to 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors starting on Friday.

Republicans remain concerned businesses can’t survive further closure extensions.

The executive order will allow gyms and bowling alleys to open at 30% capacity. Bars, movie theaters, nightclubs, dance halls, amusement parks and indoor entertainment venues must remain closed.

Cooper said the mandate for face coverings will stay in place.

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