9.3 SR 04-19-2021Request for Action
To
Item Number
Mayor and City Council
9.3
Agenda Section
Meeting Date
Prepared by
Work Session
April 19, 2021
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Item Description
Reviewed by
Mask Mandate for Outdoor Youth Sports
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discuss and provide staff direction.
Background/Discussion
At the Regular Meeting Open Forum on April 5, 2021, City of Ramsey resident Eric Nelson asked the Council to
add a discussion regarding the State of Minnesota mask mandate for outdoor youth sports, the use of city
resources to enforce the mandate outdoors and they city's right to levy penalties and restrict field access.
Financial Impact
N/A
Mission/Policy/Goal
The Elk River mission and vision
Attachments
• MDH Sports Guidelines
• MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires pi ospei ly.
M
TUREJ
Updated.• August 2020
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
COVID-19 Organized Sports
Practice and Games Guidance for
Youth and Adults
3/14/2021
Executive Order 21-11 will begin Monday, March 15, 2021, at 12 p.m. (noon) and does not have an
end date. Effective Wednesday, March 31, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., larger venues, restaurants, gyms, and
pools will be able to expand their occupancy per the Stay Safe Guidance. Effective Wednesday, April
14, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., the requirement to work from home shifts to a strong recommendation.
The Stay Safe MN website may be updated with Frequently Asked Questions about the Governor's
Executive Orders and related industry guidance. These Frequently Asked Questions may also include
clarifications to the requirements and recommendations in Executive Orders and guidance. Frequently
Asked Questions about Stay Safe MN (mn.gov/covidl9/stay-safe/fag/index.osp) or Stay Safe Guidance
for Businesses and Organizations (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/index.0sp) may have additional
clarifications about requirements and recommendations.
Face coverings must be worn by all people at all times, including practices and games, with only a few
exceptions (see "Follow Face Covering Requirements" section, below).
Please note: Counties experiencing increased activity or clusters of B117 should consider pausing
sports for two weeks. If pausing sports isn't possible, then entire teams should be tested on at least a
weekly basis, especially 72 hours prior to a game and then again the week after a game.
Updates to this document include:
✓ The definition of organized sports (page 2)
✓ A link to a report on masking in youth sports (page 7)
✓ Guidance for athletes on how to acclimate to wearing a face covering during practices and
competitions (pages 7, 8)
✓ Promoting testing both for those athletes in K-12 and those participating in wrestling (page 8)
✓ Increased pod size for outdoors from 25 to 50 (page 9)
✓ Clarification of concession requirements (page 11)
✓ Guidance around contact tracing on buses and vans (page 15)
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Organized adult and youth sports are any sports activity where participants are organized by entities,
associations, clubs, or organizations providing for registration of participants and oversight on a regular
basis for a defined period of time. This guidance does not apply to teams or athletes participating in
professional or intercollegiate sports activities. Intercollegiate sports teams and athletes must follow the
guidance for sports activities in Recommendations for Different Levels of COVID-19 Transmission Among
Higher Education Institutions, available at Institutes of Higher Education: COVID-19
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/ihe.html).
Decisions regarding sports and other activities in COVID-related Executive Orders and guidance take into
account multiple considerations. These considerations include but are not limited to the factors that
make an activity risky in terms of exposure to and spread of COVID-19; COVID-19 data and trends in
Minnesota, surrounding states, and nationwide; and the well-being and economic health of
Minnesotans.
The decision to participate in sports does not mean engaging in sports is without risk. Any time you
gather with other people, you are putting yourself and others at risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the
virus that causes COVID-19. COVID-19 can lead to serious medical conditions and even death for people
of all ages. We cannot predict who will become severely ill, although we know that older people and
people with underlying health conditions are at higher risk. We do not yet know what the long-term
effects of COVID-19 are; even people with mild cases may experience long-term complications. People
with symptoms and without symptoms can spread COVID-19. The masking, distancing, and other
guidance provided here is intended to reduce the risk of transmission but does not eliminate it.
This guidance document outlines requirements and prevention strategies to reduce the spread of
COVID-19 during sports activities. This document is intended for organizers and participants of all ages,
in sports activities organized by entities, associations, clubs, or organizations providing for registration of
participants and oversight on a regular basis for a defined period of time.
Setting expectations
Compliance with this guidance is necessary to prevent transmission of COVID-19 in sports practices
and games.
It is important to communicate to parents and players that face coverings will be required for all
practices and games. For further information about face coverings and youth, see the below face
covering requirements and the American Academy of Pediatrics COVID-19 Interim Guidance: Return
to Sports (services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-
guidance/covid-19-interim-guidance-return-to-sports/).
✓ Players, parents, and coaches should understand that social activities outside of practices and games
are sources of transmission among teams. Social gatherings indoors should be discouraged.
Permitted social gatherings must follow the Stay Safe in Social Gatherings
(staysafe.mn.gov/individuals-families/social-gatherings.*sp) guidance, including the requirement to
maintain social distance between members of other households.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Requirements for holding athletic events
Create a preparedness plan
✓ Adopt and implement a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan as required by Executive Orders issued by
Governor Tim Walz (mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.osp). An organization's COVID-19
Preparedness Plan must address the requirements listed below and should consider the
recommendations in this document. The plan should be updated when there are changes to public
health official guidelines regarding group gatherings or sports activities.
All businesses (sports facilities, gyms, associations, sports clubs/teams, etc.) are required to
develop a program -specific plan. Templates for developing a program -specific plan can be found
at Stay Safe MN (staysafe.mn.gov).
All youth sports programs must also develop a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan and follow the
parameters outlined in the COVID-19 Prevention Guidance for Youth and Student Programs
found at Stay Safe Guidance for Schools, Colleges, and Universities (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
fuidance/schools.isp). "Youth programs" are programs providing care or enrichment to children
or adolescents such as day camps, summer activities, and recreational or educational classes
that require registration and have on -site supervision. "Youth programs" does not include
licensed child care facilities or school district summer learning programs.
The COVID-19 Preparedness Plan must be available and accessible to participants, volunteers,
and employees.
✓ Identify a plan administrator for your organization's COVID-19 plan.
Communicate your COVID-19 plan to officials, umpires, and trainers.
This should include expectations around screening, face coverings, and other prevention efforts.
Plan templates are available at Stay Safe Guidance for All Business Entities
(staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/all-businesses.*sp).
Whenever possible, identify a COVID-19 Coordinator (which can also be the COVID-19 Preparedness
Plan administrator).
This person will be the point person for any cases or outbreaks in the team/association.
This person will report COVID-19 cases to MDH, and work with LPH, MDH, and school health
professionals to ensure close contacts are quickly identified and that isolation and quarantine
are followed, as well as prompt communication with parents and athletes.
V Create protocols that are considerate of coaches, staff, players, volunteers, and participants at
highest risk of complications from COVID-19.
CDC: People at Increased Risk (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-
precautions/index.html)
Executive Order 20-55, Protecting the Rights and Health of At -Risk Populations during the
COVID-19 Peacetime Emergency (www.Ieg.state.mn.us/archive/execorders/20-55.pdf)
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Follow physical distancing
✓ Maintain at least 6 feet between participants when they are not playing (on the bench, in the
dugout, on the sideline, etc.).
✓ Maintain 6 feet between spectators or household groups.
✓ It is strongly recommended that spectators remain at least 12 feet away from the closest
participant —meaning, at least 12 feet from the field, the bench, or the court, whichever is closest.
Follow guidance for the venue/event setting (e.g., gymnasium, rinks)
Do not exceed the number of people allowed in the venue/event setting.
Facility and venue guidance is available at Stay Safe Guidance for Businesses & Organizations
(staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/index•isp). Guidance that may apply includes the following:
Stay Safe Guidance for Outdoor Recreation Entities (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
guidance/outdoor-recreation.isp)
Stay Safe Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting Venues (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
Suidance/entertainment.isp)
2020-21 Planning Guidance for Minnesota Public Schools
(education.mn.gov/mdeprod/idcplg?ldcService=GET FILE&dDocName=MDE032934&Revisio
nSelectionMethod=latestReleased&Rendition=primary) — Updated 1/8/21
An overview of occupancy limits can be found at Minnesota's Stay Safe Plan
(m n.gov/covi d l9/for-m i n n esota ns/stay-safe-m n/stay-safe-p la n. j s p).
The following requirements apply to games:
For competitions held indoor, if 12 feet can't be maintained between the participants in the
game (athletes, coaches, student managers, time keepers) and the spectators, participants
must be included in the total occupancy count.
If spectators and participants can be clearly separated by at least 12 feet, then
participants do not need to be included in the total occupancy count.
For practices, spectators and participants all contribute to the total occupancy limit of the event
space, regardless of spacing between spectators and participants.
Additionally, follow guidance outlined in sections below for spectators at practices and games.
Stagger game and practice times to avoid crowding and congestion when participants are arriving,
playing, and leaving.
Post instructions for patrons throughout the venue/event setting and at entrances that inform
patrons of the following:
Not to enter if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
The venue's attendance limits.
That they are required to adhere to hygiene and social distancing instructions, should not cluster
at entry/exit points, observe signage and markings that promote social distancing.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
That they are required to follow the venue's requirements for wearing face coverings.
Encourage patrons to review a COVID-19 self -screening survey that asks about close contacts with
confirmed cases and quarantined cases and out-of-state travel before entering venue. See the
Visitor and Employee Health Screening Checklist on Businesses and Employers: COVID-19
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/businesses.html).
v' Consider limiting or not allowing concessions to minimize opportunities for crowding.
Consider limiting the size of or not allowing bands, cheer squads, and other entertainment groups at
the competition.
It is strongly recommended that any bands, cheer squads, or other entertainment groups
present at a competition remain at least 12 feet away from the spectators and participants in
the game.
If bands, cheer squads or other entertainment groups cannot maintain 12 feet of distance from
spectators and participants in the game, then members of the band, cheer squads, and other
entertainment groups must be included in the total spectator count.
Follow face covering requirements
✓ Face coverings must be worn by all people at all times, including practices and games, with only the
following exceptions.
During wrestling contact, a cloth face covering could become a choking or visual hazard and is
discouraged. For gymnastics and cheerleading, if there are concerns about safety in regards to
choking or the face covering getting caught on objects, athletes may temporarily remove the
face covering during activities such as tumbling/stunting/flying or on certain apparatuses.
However, athletes must wear face coverings for all other practices and routines.
People who swim/dive/participate in water sports should not wear a cloth face covering while
they are in the water.
Individual sports performed outside that allow people to maintain distance from others are
lower risk for transmission of SARS-CoV-2. A cloth face covering is not necessary for athletes
participating in outdoor individual sports if the athletes can stay at least 6 feet away from
others. However, if social distancing cannot be maintained, athletes must wear face coverings.
Note that even outdoor individual sports often involve occasional close contact with others,
so teams and athletes will often need to modify the activity to ensure that 6 feet of social
distance can be maintained. In addition, individual outdoor athletes are still required to
wear a face covering when they are around teammates, coaches, or others, and not actively
participating in the distanced individual activity.
For example, at a track and field event, an athlete may remove their face covering for the
duration of the competition if the competition is organized in a way that guarantees the
athlete will not come within 6 feet of others on the course, including when starting and
finishing. The athlete would still need to wear face coverings before and after the
competition.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
If a sport requires a helmet that interferes with wearing a face covering safely or effectively),
athletes may consider alternatives to face coverings that are specifically designed by helmet
manufacturers to provide protection against the splashes, sprays, and aerosols that can lead to
COVID-19 transmission (i.e., a full face shield).
A face covering is still the most protective option and should be used to the extent possible,
but a full face shield may provide some protection.
Any face shield used as a face covering alternative must cover the entire face, extend to the
ears and below the chin, and must not have exposed gaps or vents near the eyes, mouth, or
nose.
For more information, please see Frequently Asked Questions About the Requirement to
Wear Face Coverings (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfaa.htm1).
For further information on wearing face coverings during sports activities please see the
following guidance: American Academy of Pediatrics COVID-19 Interim Guidance: Return to
Sports (services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-
guidance/covid-19-interim-guidance-return-to-sports/).
Face coverings must be worn in accordance with MDH guidance and Executive Order 20-81.
For the best protection against COVID-19, a face covering must have at least two layers of
tightly -woven fabric, cover the nose and mouth completely and fit snugly against the face
without gaps.
Types of face coverings can include a cloth mask, a neck gaiter, a scarf, a bandanna, or a
religious face covering. CDC recommends using two layers of fabric when making a cloth face
covering. Face coverings that are made of thinner single -layer fabric such as certain types of
masks, scarves, neck gaiters, or bandannas may not be as effective for blocking droplets that
come out when speaking, coughing, or sneezing and should not be used unless there are no
alternatives.
Any masks that incorporate a valve that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, or
masks with openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents are not sufficient face
coverings because they allow droplets to be released from the mask.
Face Covering Requirements and Recommendations
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecover.htm1)
People are not permitted to remove their face coverings during activities that involve a high level of
exertion. For guidance on when a person refuses to wear a face covering, or is unable to wear a face
covering due to a disability, medical, or mental health condition, please see Frequently Asked
Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfag.html).
The following people are exempt from the face covering requirement:
Children under age 2 years must not wear face coverings. Children between the ages of 2 and 5
years old are not required to wear face coverings but are encouraged to wear a face covering
when in public if they can do so reliably in compliance with CDC guidance (i.e., without
frequently touching or removing the face covering). See CDC: How to Wear Masks
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
(www.cdc.gov/coronavi rus/2019-ncov/prevent-getti ng-sick/how-to-wear-cloth-face-
coveri ngs. htm I).
People who have medical or other health conditions, disabilities, or mental health,
developmental, or behavioral needs that make it difficult to tolerate wearing a face covering.
✓ For further information and background regarding the decision to require face coverings for most
sports, please see Face Coverings in Organized Sports During COVID-19 (Face Coverings in Organized
Sports During COVID-19 (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/sportsmask.pdf).
MDH recognizes that it takes time for people to acclimate to face coverings. There are some key
considerations to help athletes effectively wear face coverings during any sport:
Wear a face covering that fits snugly against the sides of the face. This will prevent it from
slipping and interfering with vision. Athletes may have to try a variety of face coverings to find
one that fits properly.
Before using a face covering in competition, athletes should acclimate to wearing a face
covering during practices by starting out with less intense workouts and building intensity as
they become comfortable wearing the face covering.
Bring extra face coverings to practice so athletes can replace wet or soiled face coverings.
Face -covering guidance does allow for people to remove their face covering if they are having
trouble breathing. If an athlete needs to take their mask off, they should take a break from play,
and find an area where they can sit down and be physically distanced before removing the face
covering.
Athletes should stop activity if they are feeling overly fatigued, dizziness, headache, muscular
weakness, or drowsiness.
Promote testing
Those participating in sports programs and activities should consider routine testing, especially
those in K-12. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Department of
Education recommend that participants in extracurricular activities get tested for COVID-19 every
other week for the remainder of the 2020-21 school year.
MDH also strongly recommends that those who participate in wrestling get tested prior to each
competition.
Wrestling is a sport that confers high risk for transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19
because of close proximity and contact with another person. In addition, it is difficult for masks
to be worn without getting pulled off and tangled.
Minnesota and other states have identified multiple outbreaks associated with wrestling.
Because the virus that causes COVID-19 can be transmitted by asymptomatic people, MDH
strongly recommends that wrestlers test for COVID frequently, including 48 — 72 hours prior to a
meet.
When planning, it is important to take into account the time needed for test results to be
available prior to the match.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Promote a culture of honesty and health
✓ Create protocols to maintain health checks and screening of participants and staff/volunteers.
Any staff, volunteers, or participants who are sick must stay home.
Have policies in place outlining the process for those who become sick while participating in a
sport.
Be aware that people can get a positive COVID-19 test even if they do not have symptoms.
° Recommend routine testing of athletes, coaches, and other participants, especially 72 hours prior to
a game.
Requirements for holding practices
Follow the "Requirements for holding athletic events" in addition to the following:
Spectator requirements
If necessary for spectators to be at practices, ensure that spectators maintain at least 6 feet of social
distancing between households and that spectators are complying with venue/facility guidance —
including applicable capacity limits.
Practice requirements
Participants must maintain 6 feet of social distancing when not actively playing (team meetings, side
lines, waiting for a turn).
Keep practices small in size. For youth and adult organized sport practices or training (non -game or
competition activities), create pods. Pod sizes cannot exceed 25 people indoors or 50 people
outdoors per pod.
A "pod" is a group of people that only practice or play with members of their own pod, which
limits the potential for transmission in the event of an exposure or outbreak. Teams and
organizations are responsible for ensuring that members of different pods do not practice
together, interact, or otherwise come into close contact while organized sports are occurring.
Pods must either practice in physically separate rooms, facilities, or areas, or steps must be
taken to ensure that pods are kept separated by a distance of no less than 12 feet at all times.
Teams must also avoid reassigning athletes to different pods to the maximum extent possible.
The smaller the pod size, the more the team can minimize broader transmission of COVID-19
among teammates.
Additional practice recommendations
✓ Spectators at practices are strongly discouraged. If spectators must attend practices, consider
limiting to one per participant.
✓ Host practices outdoors if possible.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Outdoors is safer than indoors.
If indoors, minimize the time spent indoors, as risk of transmission increases with the more time
spent indoors. Consider keeping indoor practices to 30 minutes or less.
Avoid using locker rooms and facility showers.
Carpooling should be discouraged as much as possible.
Requirements for holding games, scrimmages, and
competitions
Spectator requirements
V The total number of spectators at games must comply with the appropriate venue guidance and
capacity limits (see "Follow guidance for the event setting" section above).
Strongly consider limiting spectators to one to two people per participant to minimize
transmission and to comply with applicable venue guidance and capacity limits.
Require reservations and/or ticketing (e.g., online, app-based, email, will -call) according to the
requirements applicable to entertainment venues (https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
guidance/entertainment.isp).
Names, phone number, and/or email should be collected as part of the reservations so that
quick notification can be done if an individual develops COVID-19.
Spectator recommendations
✓ Schedule arrival times for longer than their typical duration to minimize the congregation of patrons
waiting. Establish staggered admission or entry times and durations to minimize overlap and
congregating of patrons at choke points (e.g., access points, security check points, admission areas,
concession areas).
Number of participants allowed
V During a game, scrimmages, or competitions (played indoors or outdoors):
The number of participants allowed can include all of the people needed to make up the team.
A team is defined as the total number of players/athletes, coaches, referees, umpires, etc.
needed to hold the game or competition as long as the total number of people does not exceed
the total number allowed by the venue or facility (check capacity limits). This includes cross
country and track teams.
v During a cross country or track event:
The "course maximum" —meaning the number of people allowed on the course at one time is
the total square footage of the course divided by 113.
Participants must be divided into completely separated participant groups to ensure that the
number of participants on the course at one time never exceeds the course maximum.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Event participants must be further divided into "pods" and physically distanced (meaning 6 feet
of distance is maintained between people from different households) within the pods.
Pod sizes cannot exceed 25 people indoors or 50 people outdoors per pod.
Multi -team (more than two teams) events and
tournaments
MDH strongly recommends against holding tournaments or sporting events that will bring teams
together from different states or from outside your local area. If teams choose to host multi -team
events, the following guidelines apply.
Requirements
v' The occupancy requirements that apply to the venue/event setting must be followed (refer to the
"Follow guidance for the event setting" section above).
People who are spectators can get food and eat either in designated food areas or at their seats, if
allowed by the venue/event setting.
v Allow only one team in a locker room at any one time and limit the amount of time each team
spends in the locker room.
..r Teams must minimize the time they spend in the venue/event setting.
Teams should only arrive early enough to warm up before their competition, and teams should
leave as soon as their game is over.
If athletes linger after a game to eat or watch games, they are considered spectators and must
be counted toward the overall occupancy of the venue. They must also follow guidance
requirements that apply to the venue/event (e.g., they must eat in designated seating areas,
wear face coverings, be in an assigned seat as a spectator or some similar accommodation, etc.).
The other option would be for the participants to get their food to -go.
Recommendations
V' Consider limiting or not allowing entertainment (including bands, cheer squads, or dance teams) at
this time.
Strongly consider limiting spectators to one to two people per participant to minimize transmission
and to comply with applicable venue guidance and capacity limits.
Limit the number of participants as much as possible, as well as minimize the number of
parents/chaperones that travel with the team.
Remember that if a person tests positive for COVID-19 and was traveling with others in a vehicle
for greater than 30 minutes, it could result in quarantine of everyone who traveled with that
person in the same vehicle (bus, van, SUV, etc.).
Avoid overnight stays as much as possible. Consider hosting events at a central location that does
not require teams to stay overnight.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Remember that staying at hotels can create another environment where teammates gather in
close proximity, which increases risk of transmission.
Requirements for outdoor recreational race events
Key information
✓ The guidance in this section is for outdoor organized recreational races or non-competitive similar
events (e.g., running races, "fun runs"/walks, triathlons, bicycle races/rides, charity walks, or cross-
country skiing events).
This guidance is not applicable to motorized races. For these events, please use the Stay Safe
Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting Venues (https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
Ruidance/entertainment.isp).
Unless this section imposes a different or additional requirement, any organized race event
must also follow the requirements in other sections of this guidance document.
Spectators are allowed at race events that are held in a defined venue. Any such events must
follow the requirements of the Stay Safe Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting Venues
(https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/entertainment.usp) regarding limits on the number
of spectators allowed and the steps that must be taken to protect the health and safety of
spectators and workers or volunteers. The person or entity responsible for organizing the race
must incorporate applicable requirements from both this guidance document and the Stay Safe
Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting Venues into the COVID-19 Preparedness Plan for the
event.
Key elements of an organized race plan
In order to prevent COVID-19 transmission at an organized race, to maintain control over the event, and
to facilitate social distancing between participants, volunteers, and employees, all organized races must
adhere to the following basic requirements:
Advance registration. Registration must occur prior to the race through online or other contact -less
methods. Any racing equipment, promotional products or handouts, bibs, etc. should be mailed to
participants prior to race day.
Participant, employee and volunteer attendance. The number of participants allowed on the race
course at any one time depends on the size and structure of the course:
The "course maximum" —meaning the number of people allowed on the course at any time is
250 participants or the total square footage of the course divided by 113, whichever is less.
Further, races that choose to exceed the course maximum must ensure an entire participant
group has completely finished the race and vacated the course before releasing a new group of
participants.
The design of the course must ensure that there is at least 113 square feet for each person on
the course (113 square feet is the U.S. Fire Administration's recommended space per person to
ensure safe social distancing).
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
• Example calculation for determining number of participants on a course:
• It takes 28,250 square feet of space to socially distance 250 people (250 x 113sq. ft).
• Using an 18 foot wide course it would take approximately 1600 feet of course to provide
enough space to socially distance 250 people (28, 250 sq. feet - 18 feet = 1569 feet :�1600
feet).
1 mile = 5280 feet (5280 - 1600 = 3.3 or :� 1/3)
1600 feet :� 1/3 of a mile
• It would take approximately 1/3rd of a mile to socially distance 250 people on an 18 foot
wide course.
• "Point to point" courses, where the start and finish areas are distinct from one another are
preferred to discourage crowds and naturally spread out potential spectators.
• Workers are not counted toward the "course maximum" for purposes of this guidance.
✓ Participant pods. Event participants must be further divided into "pods" of no more than 25 people
indoors or 50 outdoors, and socially distanced (meaning, 6 feet of distance is maintained between
people from different households) within the pods.
• Each pod must be released in a staggered manner to avoid clustering on the course and
intermixing of pods.
• As each pod is released, individual participants should also be released in a staggered manner or
positioned to allow for proper social distancing within the pod.
✓ Social distancing measures. Participants must maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing from other
participants, volunteers, and employees through the entire event, including at the starting line,
throughout the race, and at the finish line. Staff and volunteers must also maintain social distancing
from other staff, volunteers, and participants.
• Social distancing measures should take into account the size and structure of the venue. For
example, if the race takes place on a track, lanes should be designated according to pace (for
example, with slower participants in outside lanes, and faster participants in inside lanes).
• Markers such as tape, traffic cones, or stickers should be placed on the ground to aid
participants in maintaining social distancing.
• Participants should be given staggered arrival times, based on their pod's start time, to avoid
congregating at the starting line. Participants within the same pod should be spaced at the
starting line in a manner that allows them to maintain social distancing from each other.
• Participants must immediately leave the course after finishing the race, and employees and
volunteers must ensure that participants do not loiter or gather in groups at the finish area. Face
coverings. Face coverings must be worn by all people at all times in the start and finish line
areas, and while in their participant pod (if applicable). Face coverings may be removed by
participants while on the race course as long as social distancing can be maintained.
✓ Communication and signage. The event organizer should strongly promote the importance of social
distancing and personal responsibility to all participants, volunteers and staff as part of the event's
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regular communication strategy (both pre -event and during the event). In event venue areas
(particularly areas not enclosed), the event should post prominent signage throughout the area that
informs participants of the following:
Not to enter if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
Hygiene, face covering and social distancing requirements and instructions.
Applicable venue attendance limits and instruction to avoid clustering.
Spectators. Race courses should be designed to eliminate the potential of spectators if organizers
cannot ensure the venue requirements (including spectator capacity) will be followed at all times.
Secluded courses (roads or trails/parks in areas with low foot and road traffic congestion) are
preferred to discourage attracting crowds.
Social gathering limits for social distancing apply when races occur in public roadways, trails, and
other areas that are not a defined and controlled venue.
Organizers must take steps to discourage and limit spectator gatherings in key high traffic
areas (e.g., posting signage, monitoring and disbanding unauthorized spectator areas, etc.).
Organizers are responsible for unauthorized gathering of spectators around the race course
if they do not take reasonable steps to prevent these gatherings.
Organizers may not set up seating or gathering areas, or otherwise encourage the gathering
of spectators without following the Stay Safe Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting
Venues (https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/entertainment.usp).
If the race is held in a defined outdoor venue (for example, at a track at a public school or in a
stadium), spectators are permitted, but the venue must follow the occupancy limits and all
other requirements outlined in the Stay Safe Guidance for Entertainment and Meeting Venues
(https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/entertainment.*sp).
Vendors and attractions. If an event is not being held in a defined venue (for example, if a course is
located on a public roadway, trail, or other public right of way), vendors or
recreational/entertainment attractions coordinated by the event organizers are not permitted
because they encourage the congregation of spectators.
Transportation. If providing or organizing transportation associated with the race, race organizers
must also consider limitations and all other requirements outlined in COVID-19 Preparedness Plan
Guidance: Reauirements for PassenEer Transportation
(http://dli.mn.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/COVID 19 preparedness plan requirements guidelines
passenger transportation.pdf).
Event policies. The event may apply additional, lawful policies that are more stringent than required
by this or other guidance or executive orders at its discretion.
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Important risk considerations
Level of contact in a sport
Consider the risk associated with that sport in terms of COVID-19 being spread between players.
✓ The more physical or close contact that occurs the greater risk there is in spreading illness.
✓ A sport or training that takes place indoors is riskier than if the activity is done outdoors.
Resources for risk categorization of sports:
National Collegiate Athletic Association COVID-19 Coronavirus (www.ncaa.org/sport-science-
institute/coronavirus-covid-19)
United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee Coronavirus Updates
(www.teamusa.org/Coronavirus)
Under the "Return to Training and Sport Event Planning" tab, select Sport Event Planning.
National Federation of State High School Association's Guidance for Opening up High School
Athletics and Activities (nfhs.org/media/3812287/2020-nfhs-guidance-for-opening-up-high-
school-athletics-and-activities-nfhs-smac-may-15 2020-final.Ddf).
Know before you play
There may be an increased risk of COVID-19 when participating in sports, and COVID-19 activity may be
different in different regions of the state, also contributing to a possible increase in risk.
Traveling out of state or to different regions of the state to participate in sports activities is strongly
discouraged. However, if people or teams are considering traveling to other regions or states to
participate in sports, they should be aware of COVID-19 activity in that area to inform their decision.
Additionally, the Governor's Executive Order recommends people quarantine upon return from out of
state travel. Effective Feb. 2, 2021, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of
public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs
such as airports and stations. For more information see Requirement for Face Masks on Public
Transportation Conveyances and at Transportation Hubs (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/travelers/face-masks-public-transportation.html).
For Minnesota:
Situation Update for COVID-19 (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/situation.html)
Governor's COVID-19 Dashboard (mn.gov/covid19/data/covid-dashboard/index.*sp)
For the broader United States:
Johns Hopkins University of Medicine: COVID-19 United States Cases by County
(coronavirus.ihu.edu/us-map)
CDC: COVID Data Tracker (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/cases-in-
us.html
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Take precautions with shared transportation (e.g., buses or vans)
Those traveling on buses should have assigned and documented seating arrangements, remain at
least 6 feet from the driver and the riders, and wear face coverings at all times.
If the above precautions are followed:
Drivers would not be considered a close contact if they have been consistently spaced at least 6
feet away from all riders, including the ill person (with the exception of riders entering/exiting
the bus).
Close contacts will only include those who are in the same row, two rows ahead, or two rows
behind the positive person for 15 minutes or more over the course of the ride (or roundtrip, if
applicable).
If the above precautions are not followed, then the definition of close contacts is expanded to the
entire bus if any of the following are true:
Riders are not in their assigned seat (i.e., moving about the bus to socialize with others) for the
entire ride (or roundtrip, if applicable); or
There is no documentation or other ability to confirm seating assignments; or
Riders were engaged in activities that involved removal of face coverings (e.g., eating and
drinking).
Recommendations for slowing the spread of COVID-
19 during play
Consider whether contact in the sport can be modified. For example, can contact be reduced among
players during practice in order to limit close contact?
Consider whether practices can occur outside, as in general, being outside reduces the risk of
COVID-19 transmission.
Minimize sharing of objects.
Do not share individual water bottles, community snacks, or towels.
Encourage use of dedicated personal equipment such as bats, mitts, rackets, etc.
If a member of your team or organization has
COVID-19
✓ If a case of COVID-19 is reported to you, notify MDH by email at health.sports.covidl9@state.mn.us.
MDH will be available to answer questions you have and can provide guidance. MDH also has
template notification letters for close contacts or others on the team who may have questions about
their risk of COVID-19.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
Once you hear of a case on your team, the team or association COVID-19 contact and/or coach must
review whether or not the case was infectious while with their teammates and whether or not an
exposure occurred. The COVID-19 contact and/or coach can consult with MDH or their affiliated
association to discuss exposure assessment or any other concerns.
It is important to keep rosters of who was at practices and, when allowed, games each day so
contact tracing can be done quickly.
A 14-day quarantine is recommended for people who have been exposed to COVID-19. In some
circumstances, a shortened quarantine period may be possible.
If the exposure of the athlete occurs during sports and the athlete is unmasked, they are NOT
eligible for shortened quarantine for sports.
If the exposure of the athlete occurs during sports and the athlete is masked, they ARE eligible
for shortened quarantine for sports.
If the exposure of the athlete occurs during interactions/contact in non -sports settings (whether
person was masked during the exposure or not), it needs to be assessed as usual (i.e., transient
exposure vs. prolonged exposure).
You can find more information on what contacts need to do at What to Do if You Have Had
Close Contact With a Person With COVID-19
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/contact.pdf).
People who are sick with COVID-19 will need to stay out for 10 days from symptom onset. You can
find most up to date information on these recommendations at If You Are Sick
(www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/sick.html).
More information on what to do if you have a player who is symptomatic can be found at Stay
Safe Guidance for Schools, Colleges, and Universities (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-
Ruidance/schools.isp).
Team photography
Standing close together is a high -risk activity, even when it is a shorter period of time. Consider
taking individual photos and using editing software to combine them into a group photo.
Consider using a longer lens to increase distance between the photography staff and the people
being photographed.
Group photos should be taken outside if at all possible.
If indoors, use a space where people can be separated to allow for as much social distancing as
possible.
Prepare for the photos before people arrive. For example, identify the site (i.e., bleachers) and Pre-
mark the spots where people should stand for a group photo to minimize crowding together while
coming into the area.
People should face forward in the same direction.
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
✓ People should wear masks as they get into position and keep the mask on until the photographer
provides a command to remove masks and take the picture. Time without masks should be very
brief. People should replace their masks as soon as photos are done.
✓ When the photo has been taken, people should quickly separate from others.
Sport -specific resources for return to play
Note: MDH is not promoting any resources but is including links here for your reference.
✓ CDC guidance has considerations for youth sports. These principles can be applied to all ages:
Considerations for Youth Sports (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-
childcare/youth-sports.html)
✓ Strategies provided by the National Collegiate Athletics Association: Core Principles of
Resocialization of Collegiate Sport (www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/core-principles-
resocialization-collegiate-sport)
✓ Guidance and support at the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (www.mnsports.org/)
✓ Minnesota State High School League (www.mshsl.org)
✓ USA Wrestling COVID-19 Update (www.teamusa.org/USA-
Wrestling/Features/2020/March/14/COVID-19-Special-Section)
✓ USA Wrestling Return to the Mat Guidelines (content.themat.com/covid-19/USAW-Return-to-the-
Mat-Guidelines.pdf)
✓ USA Hockey Player Safety & Health (www.usahockey.com/plaversafety)
✓ Minnesota Ice Arena Managers Association COVID-19 Reference Page
(miama.org/members/covid-19-reference-page/)
✓ Minnesota Hockey (www.minnesotahockey.org)
✓ US Lacrosse: Return -to -Play Recommendations for Lacrosse
(www.uslacrosse.org/sites/default/files/public/documents/safety/return-to-play-final-1.pdf)
✓ USATF Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Information Page (www.usatf.org/covidl9)
✓ USA Volleyball Return to Play Guidelines (www.teamusa.org/usa-volleyball/features/-
/media/A455B89BE0094BDC96EFEC89BFD324D6.ashx)
✓ USA Ultimate Return to Play Guidance (usaultimate.org/wp-
content/u ploads/2020/10/ReturnToPlayGuidance-June2020.pdf)
✓ USA Swimming Coronavirus Resources (www.usaswimming.org/utility/landing-pages/coronavirus)
✓ USTA Tennis Playing Tennis Safely (www.usta.com/en/home/stay-current/national/usta-
statement-on-safety-of-playing-tennis-during-the-covid-l9-v.htm1)
✓ USA Soccer Recommendations Guides (www.ussoccer.com/pIavon/guides/phase-l-grassroots)
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COVID-19 SPORTS PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS
✓ USGA Guidance in Applying Golfs Rules and Posting Scores (www.usga.org/content/usga/home-
page/rules-hub/rulesarticles/covid-19-rules-and-handicapping-fags.html)
m MINNeSOTA
Minnesota Department of Health I health.mn.gov 1 651-201-5000
625 Robert Street North PO Box 64975, St. Paul, MN 55164-0975
Contact.health.communications@state.mn.us to request an alternate format.
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Bozo-zozs
MINNESOTA STATE HIGH SCHOOL LEAGUE
Event and Facility Management
Guidance and Information
This Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information document
communicates the specific requirements and guidance established by the Minnesota
Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Education.
Documents used in the creation of this Guidance and Information:
• Executive Order 21-11 (3/12/21)
• Minnesota's Stay Safe Plan (Updated 3/12/21)
• COVID-19 Sports Practice Guidance for Youth and Adults (Updated 3/14/21)
• Safe Learning Plan for the 2020-21 School Year (Updated 3/14/21)
• 2020-21 Planning Guidance for Minnesota Public Schools (Updated 3/14/21)
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Guidance: Requirements for Outdoor Venues (3/31/21)
• COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Guidance: Requirements for Indoor Venues (3/31/21)
Member Schools have the right to enact more restrictive limitations for their events and
venues.
Definitions used in this document:
• Participants include athletes, performers, competitors, student workers, and coaches/advisors.
• Spectators include anyone present who is not a participant.
• Event includes all indoor sports, concerts, plays, competitions, performances and any other
similar events that have spectators.
Spectator • Spectators must be separated from the competition by a
minimum of 12 feet.
Management • Spectators must be separated by at least 6 feet between
households/spectator groups.
• For +ePIeer events where 12 feet can't be maintained
between participants and spectators, participants must be
included in the total capacity count.
• If spectators and participants can be clearly separated by at
least 12 feet, then participants do not need to be included in
the total capacity count.
Page 2 of 6 MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information 4/7/2021
• Schools must extend arrival times for longer than their
typical duration to minimize the congregation of spectators
waiting. They must establish staggered admission -times,
entry -times and durations to minimize overlap and
congregating of spectators at choke -points (e.g. access
points, security check -points, admission areas, concession
areas).
Indoor Events:
• All spectators at all indoor events must wear a mask/face
covering.
Outdoor Events
• All spectators at all outdoor events must wear a mask/face
covering.
Spectator Requirements:
Capacity Indoor
• Venues with an occupant capacity of less than 500
o 50% of the venue capacity
• Venues with occupant capacity greater than 500 may
increase patron count as follows:
o For seated indoor venues: the venue may operate
with an additional 15% of the occupant capacity
above 500, with a maximum capacity not to exceed
3,000 for the entire venue (seated venues must have
assigned seating, and patrons must remain seated).
o For non -seated indoor venues: the venue may
operate with an additional 10% of the capacity above
500, with a maximum capacity not to exceed 1,500
for the entire venue.
• Use the Venue Occupancy Calculator to calculate reduced
capacity of your facility/venue after April 1.
Outdoor
• Venues with an occupant capacity of less than 500
o 50% of the venue capacity
• After April 1:
o For seated outdoor venues with capacity greater
than 500, the venue may operate with an additional
25% of the occupant capacity above 500, with a
maximum capacity not to exceed 10,000 for the
entire venue (seated venues must have assigned
seating, and patrons must remain seated).
Page 3 of 6 MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information 4/7/2021
o For non -seated outdoor venues with capacity greater
than 500, the venue may operate with an additional
15% of the capacity above 500, with a maximum
capacity not to exceed 10,000 for the entire venue.
Indoor and Outdoor Events:
• School districts and charter schools must require advanced
reservations and/or ticketing (i.e., on-line, app-based, email,
will -call). Walk-ins, impromptu purchases or admittance will
not be allowed.
• All attendees at an indoor and outdoors events must be
registered in advance with name, email and/or phone
number.
Concessions
' Concessions are not recommended at school events.
If concessions are to be offered, they must follow all
appropriate guidance.
o Eliminate gatherings.
o Have a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. Minnesota Food
Code Minnesota Food Rules 4626
Game/Event
• The MSHSL requires that any contest with four or more
Personnel
schools participating must have a COVID Site Supervisor. This
COVID Site Supervisor must not be a coach or official in the
event.
o This is in application of Bylaw 409 Responsibility for
Participating Teams, Students and Spectators.
o The COVID Site Supervisor is responsible for carrying
out all COVID-related plans that align with
requirements provided by the MSHSL, MDH, and
MDE as directed by the host school Activities Director
and the Head Coach.
o This would include, but is not limited to:
■ Managing occupant capacity,
■ Directing and managing traffic flow, access,
arrival and checkpoints,
■ Enforcing mask/face covering requirements
and social distancing,
■ Limiting gatherings,
■ Assuring appropriate sanitizing and cleaning
• Essential game/event personnel include: Team members,
game officials, and site staff (including ticket-takers/sellers,
administrative supervision from both schools, certified
medical personnel, announcer, official scorers, and score
Page 4 of 6 MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information 4/7/2021
board operators, etc.) do NOT count toward the maximum
number of occupants if they remain separate from the
spectator community. Game/event personnel must be
limited to the extent possible.
• Game/event personnel must wear masks and be socially
distanced.
See sport specific guidelines for additional information on
game/event personnel.
Officials
• Officials should bring their own equipment.
• Masks/face coverings are required the entire time the
official is in the facility.
• Home team must communicate with officials if locker rooms
will be available. Whenever possible it is recommended that
locker rooms not be used by officials.
• If locker rooms are to be used:
o Officials must maintain proper social distancing of 6
feet.
o Officials must wear an appropriate mask/face
covering.
o The locker room must be sanitized after the officials
exit.
o The host site shall provide an area for officials to
store their belongings.
• Officials must leave the venue as soon as possible following
the contest.
• Schools must have officials' information to do contact
tracing if necessary.
Band
• Bands within the spectator area/seating count toward the
250 maximum spectators. Social distancing guidelines must
be followed.
Non -Contest
Indoor Events
Exhibitions or
• Non -contest exhibitions or performances are not allowed.
Outdoor Events:
Performances
• Groups that perform during a break in the contest and are
not part of the contest do NOT count toward the maximum
number of spectators if they only enter the facility to
perform and then leave the facility.
• If group members are in the facility before or after their
performance, they DO count toward the maximum number
of spectators.
Cheer
Indoor and Outdoor Events:
• Cheer Teams are considered a separate competitive pod
and do not count toward the total allowable number of
Page 5 of 6 MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information 4/7/2021
spectators if the following is adhered to:
- They are in their own designated space that maintains
a 12' distance from spectator groups.
- They maintain a 12' distance from the competitive
area.
• If the above mentioned cannot be adhered to, cheer teams
do count as a part of the total number of allowable
spectators and must remain 12' from the competitive area.
Media -Regular
Indoor and Outdoor Events:
Season Contests
• Media members count toward spectator count.
• Interviews with coaches and participants must be done via a
virtual platform unless pre -approved by site administration.
Number of official media is determined by the host site.
Recommended:
• Up to one streaming provider with
essential personnel only.
• Two radio broadcast stations. (No more than one per
school/team.) (Preference given to registered MSHSL Radio
Partners and Community Media Systems)
• Two print media. (No more than one per school/team.) To
include no more than one reporter and one
photographer. (Preference given to those with longstanding
coverage of the school and team.)
Coaches
• Coaches must be under contract and have met hiring
requirements of the school (background check, etc.) and
have met all MSHSL Coaching Requirements.
Medical
• Certified medical personnel should be available.
• Schools should limit medical personnel whenever feasible.
• The number of medical personnel should not exceed the
number that has been used in past years.
• Certified medical personnel providing medical service for the
event do not count toward the spectator count.
Locker Rooms
• Whenever possible it is recommended that locker rooms not
be used.
• If locker rooms are to be used:
o Student -athletes must only enter the locker room
with their designated pod (Varsity, JV, B-Squad, etc.)
o The locker room must be completely empty prior to
it being utilized by a new pod.
Page 6 of 6 MSHSL Event and Facility Management Guidance and Information 4/7/2021
o Student -athletes must maintain social distancing of 6
feet.
o Student -athletes must wear an appropriate
mask/face covering.
o If the locker room is not large enough to provide
appropriate social distancing of 6 feet for the entire
pod, then the pod must be divided into smaller
groups that allow proper social distancing.
o The locker room must be sanitized after the
complete pod has exited.
• If student -athletes are in distance learning they should arrive
at the venue for practice dressed for practice.
• If student -athletes are in distance learning they should arrive
at the venue dressed in uniform ready for competition.
• It is recommended that student -athletes shower at home
after practice or competition. However, if school showers
are to be used:
o Student -athletes must maintain social distancing of 6
feet.
o If the locker room is not large enough to provide
appropriate social distancing of 6 feet for the entire
pod, then the pod must be divided into smaller
groups that allow proper social distancing.
Restrooms
outdoors:
• Teams should have their own porta-potties.
• Porta-potties should be distanced to avoid congregating.
April 14, 2021
The Honorable Tim Walz
Governor of Minnesota
130 State Capitol
St. Paul, MN 55155
Dear Governor Walz,
We write to you again today with an urgent request for you to reconsider your regulations in Executive Order 20-
99 requiring youth, aged eighteen and younger, td wear a face covering while participating in sporting events, particularly
outdoor sporting events and recreational activity. With warmer weather quickly approaching, many children will be
preparing to participate in outdoor sports and recreational activities. Extensive research and data demonstrate that there is
almost no transmission of COVID-19 outside and among children. What little transmission does occur in these
circumstances will only continue to steadily decrease as mass -vaccinations continue and precautions on the sidelines and
among spectators are followed. Furthermore, as cited in our previous letter to you on January 6, face coverings during youth
sporting events pose a potential health risk to participants.
Dr. Jill Foster of the University of Minnesota reported to MinnPost in March that aerosol droplets from a contagious
person may float around indoors and increase transmission. However, in outdoor settings, these droplets are immediately
diluted, blown away, and broken up by the rush of ever -circulating air.1
Multiple studies further support this notion. For example, professors from the United Kingdom "found very few
examples of outdoor transmission of COVID-19 in everyday life... suggesting a very low risk."2 Minnesota Department of
Health's own data shows very limited instances of transmission in connection to outdoor events as well. In fact, of the few
studies where cases had been linked to outdoor gatherings, all instances of transmission included circumstances where of
some of the time at the gathering had also been spent indoors, suggesting that transmission most likely occurred indoors.
The World Health Organization ("WHO") states "children should not wear a mask when playing sports or doing
physical activity, such as running, jumping or playing on the playground so that it doesn't compromise their breathing."3
Wearing a mask that covers a child's nose and mouth during high intensity exercise could lead to fainting, hyperventilation,
or vomiting. This potential risk will increase in warmer temperatures. Further, the general nature of outdoor sports and
recreation is fast paced, thus continuous movement by participants results in limited extended exposure to others. As
presented above, this guidance, along with multiple studies reflecting the lowlihood of outdoor transmission, demonstrates
that there is no sensible reason for our youth to wear masks when participating in outdoor activity.
You have cited the State's low rate of infection and high vaccinations as reason for relaxing occupancy limits on
restaurants, business, and entertainment venues. We ask you to use the same logic to withdraw guidelines requiring
Minnesota's youth to wearing face coverings while participating in outdoor sports and recreation.
We urge you to follow the guidance of leading Health organizations and remove the mask mandate for youth sports.
This regulation is not only unnecessarily burdensome for Minnesota's youth and their families, but also is ineffective against
the spread of COVID-19.
' https://www.minnpost.com/greater-minnesota/2021/03/Minnesotans-are-heading-outside-again-so-how-low-are-the-risks-for-
outdoor-transmission-of-covid-19/
2 https://www.medrxiv.org/content/medrxiv/early/2020/09/10/2020.09.04.20188417.1.full.pdf
s https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-children-and-masks-related-to-covid-19
225 State Office Building 100 Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 296-7806
Sincerely,
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Representative Kristin Robbins
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Representative Matt Grossell
Representative Brian Daniels
Representative Spencer Igo
Representative Mary Franson
Representative Chris Swedzinski
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Representative Dave Baker
Representative Shane Mekeland
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Representative Peggy Bennett
Representative Marion O'Neil
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Representative Debra Kiel
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Representative Brian Pfarr
Representative Sondra Erickson
Representative Tama Theis
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Representative Paul Novotny
Representative Donald Raleigh
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Representative Patricia Mueller
225 State Office Building 100 Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 296-7806