July 22, 2020 11:30 a.m. (Updated at 1:30 p.m.)

Saying further actions are needed to stem the spread of COVID-19 in Oregon, on Wednesday Governor Kate Brown tightened the limits for the size of indoor gatherings and venues and lowered the age requirement for wearing a mask in indoor public spaces and outdoors where social distancing cannot be maintained.

Citing an increase in COVID-19 cases in the state, Brown said, “Oregon, we ventured out onto the ice together and the ice has begun to crack. Before we fall through the ice, we need to take steps to protect ourselves and our communities”.

Brown’s new requirements go into effect this Friday. Masks will be required for all residents age five and older. Face coverings will also be required in cases of physical exertion indoors, such as at gyms.

The maximum size of all indoor gatherings will be reduced to 100 in Phase 2 counties, down from the current 250. This includes restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and churches. The limit for private social gatherings, remains at 10.

Restaurant and bar service will end at 10:00 p.m. in all Phase 2 Reopening counties. Previously they had been allowed to remain open until 12:00 a.m.

Brown said the county watch list – those county’s with larger spikes in COVID-19 cases, will be updated in the next few days. She said tourism restrictions could soon prevent travel from state’s with higher case counts except for work purposes. Brown said state officials are in conversations with their counterparts in other states.

Brown said “I don’t make these decisions lightly and there are no easy choices”.

A link to a recording of the Governor’s press conference is posted with this story at www.541radio.com: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lh_wFeZQRxs&feature=youtu.be

Updated guidance will be posted to https://govstatus.egov.com/OR-OHA-COVID-19