Tulsa Mayor Cancels Permitted Gatherings Of 250 People Or More

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum is directing the postponement of all gatherings of 250 people or more at City of Tulsa properties as well as events permitted by the city.

The ban begins Saturday at 5 p.m. and will be in place until April 15, when it will be reevaluated. In a statement, Mayor Bynum addressed the ban saying the decision was influenced by two factors.

"1. While we do not have any evidence of community spread in Tulsa, I am mindful that so little is known about how COVID-19 is spread - in particular: if it can be spread by those not yet showing symptoms.

2. Because COVID-19 is a new virus, tests are not available at every drug store and doctor’s office for anyone who wants to make sure they are in the clear. This inherently reduces our ability to effectively track community spread.

Limiting event sizes will not entirely prevent contagion in Tulsa - but it can slow it, allowing our health care system to better assist those who need help. Prevention starts with each of us: washing our hands and staying away from others when sick."