Polito criticized for sending ‘mixed messages’ on outdoor gatherings in coronavirus era
After attending a graduation party over Memorial Day weekend, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito was pressed to clarify what kind of gatherings are permissible under current coronavirus-era restrictions around social distancing and gathering sizes — after sending what one official called “mixed messages.”
“They’re very confused, getting mixed messages,” Governor’s Councilor Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney said of her constituents who she said have been calling with questions.
Earlier this week, Polito denied rumors that she hosted a party at her lakeside Shrewsbury home after photos appeared to show multiple cars in her driveway. She admitted Tuesday to attending “a spread-apart, social distancing” graduation party for her brother’s children.
“Some families are choosing to have small, intimate family gatherings outdoors where they can be socially distant and use common sense and be respectful to each other — that is permissible under the governor’s order,” Polito said during this week’s Governor’s Council meeting.
Gov. Charlie Baker in March issued an executive order prohibiting gatherings of more than 10. Polito clarified that the order pertained to “indoor and confined spaces.”
The governor’s March 23 order states gatherings in an “unenclosed outdoor space such as a park, athletic field, or parking lot, while permissible … is not advised.” Individuals at gatherings in such venues must follow social distancing protocols and remain at least 6 feet apart, according to the order.
Devaney said the Baker administration needs to “practice what they preach” when it comes to abiding with coronavirus-era restrictions, and pressed for clear guidance for families dealing with the “heartbreak” of not being able to celebrate milestones like graduations and proms.
“I just want this to be the same for everyone — for every graduate to have the same right and to have a tribute,” Devaney said.
from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/2XDxl7P
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