This is huge for businesses and restaurants in the state. Masks will still be required inside â but if youâre sitting outside on a patio â masks and social distancing wonât be mandatory. Since March 2020 â restaurants in the state have been navigating new territory - working to stay afloat during a global pandemic and keeping up with safety and health requirements. "This is toughest it's ben in 20 years," Tavern 42 owner Cheryl Moran said. "It's been a challenge," Phil Barnett of Wood 'N Tap said Monday. But today â the news businesses have been waiting for came from Governor Ned Lamont. "Weâre going to essentially end all remaining business restrictions," Lamont said during his Monday briefing.