Governor Janet Mills says the state will put an end to the 9:00 p.m. curfew imposed on businesses, pointing to “improving public health metrics” amid the pandemic.

The governor’s office announced Thursday that the curfew will end effective Monday, February 1st. She says the state’s COVID-19 positivity rate and new cases per million are showing improvement.

Maine’s 7-day daily average of new cases fell to 404 on Thursday, compared to 626 two weeks ago. The 7-day PCR positivity rate also fell to 3.64%, down from 5.89% at the end of December.

Starting February 1st, those businesses will be allowed to resume evening operating hours while following all necessary public health protocols.

“We are beginning to round the corner on the post-holiday surge of COVID-19. With these improved public health metrics, and with the holidays behind us, it is appropriate to remove the early closing time requirement,” said Governor Mills.

“At the same time, this pandemic is far from over. As we continue to get shots into as many peoples’ arms as quickly and efficiently as possible, it is crucial that Maine people continue to wear masks, watch their distance, and avoid gatherings whenever possible. Doing these basic things will help us put a lid on this virus and get back to normal faster. That will be great for Maine people and great for Maine businesses.”