Hattiesburg, Mississippi – On Thursday, Feb. 4, the City of Hattiesburg continued its executive order, but with an update to allow for restaurants, bars and event venues to close in-house dining at 11 p.m. instead of 10 p.m.

This decision comes after local hospitalization numbers dropped below 70 for the first time since Nov. 22 and with a downward trend of positivity rates and new positives over the age of 70.

“Throughout this pandemic, we have made decisions based on local data and in consultation with our community’s health care leaders,” said Mayor Toby Barker. “There have been promising downward trends in overall hospitalizations, and we feel comfortable opening up in-house dining for restaurants and bars to 11 p.m.”

The closing only applies to in-house dining options. Businesses can continue take-out and delivery operations through traditional closing hours as needed.

Barker added, “The city and its health care partners will continue monitoring hospital capacity as well as state guidelines going forward. I appreciate the feedback and patience of our local bars and restaurants as we all work to find some functional normal during COVID-19.”

All other mandates – including masks and capacity limits – are also continued and match the statewide order that was continued by Governor Reeves on Wednesday, Feb. 3. It will run through Thursday, March 4.

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To view: Executive Order 2021-2