Photo credit: Governor Abbott Facebook
Bar owners in Texas have reason to rejoice. Yesterday, Governor Greg Abbott announced that they may now reopen at 50% capacity beginning October 14th in regions “with low COVID-19 hospitalizions.”
WATCH: Opening bars and similar establishments up to 50% capacity in regions with low #COVID19 hospitalizations.
Beginning October 14th, County Judges can opt their county into opening bars provided they assist in enforcing health protocols.#TexasBiz @TexasABC pic.twitter.com/HokCosVsEX
— Gov. Greg Abbott (@GovAbbott) October 7, 2020
“Even as more businesses have opened and students return to school, Texans have shown we can contain the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “Thanks to Texans following the best health practices, our state is prepared for additional openings, including bars.”
Governor Abbott said that he is working with leaders in the industry and a team of medical experts to develop strategies to open bars safely while following certain health protocols.
“To ensure bars open safely, these openings will be done in conjunction with county officials,” Abbott said. “County Judges will be able to opt their county into opening bars so long as they assist in enforcing the health protocols.”
The Governor wanted to make sure Texans under stand that opening bars doesn’t mean COVID-19 is no longer a threat. He warned that as bars begin to open, we need to show personal responsibility to protect ourselves and those around us.
The Governor also stated that amusement parks, movie theaters, zoos, aquariums, and bowling alleys can expand capacity to 75%.
You can view the entire order from the Governor here.
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