Health & Fitness
Governor Orders Florida Bars Closed Due To Coronavirus
The governor has ordered all bars, nightclubs and breweries that make more than half their revenue from the alcohol sales to close.
TALLAHASSEE, FL — Following the announcement that 192 people in the state have tested positive for coronavirus, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has ordered all restaurants, bars, nightclubs, breweries and other venues that make more than half their revenue from the sale of alcohol to close for the next 30 days.
Restaurants and bars that sell food can remain open, but will not be allowed to sell alcohol.
Additionally, DeSantis has mandated that all restaurants and bars be no more than half full (at 50 percent capacity) at any time.
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The order goes into effect at 5 p.m. Tuesday, a day when most bars would be packed with revelers celebrating St. Patrick's Day.
DeSantis said the restrictions are based on the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which said large gatherings of people can accelerate the spread of coronavirus.
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“We view that as something that could be problematic for the spread the virus. If they’re not meeting in these big groups, the chance that they will pass it on is less,” DeSantis said Tuesday. “I think the steps we’re taking will really reduce density, reduce crowds."
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Venues throughout the state have already canceled all concerts, festivals and events, while museums and attractions have closed for at least the next 30 days.
DeSantis' executive order ban gatherings at the beach of more than 10 people.
The governor said he was reluctant to impose these tough restrictions at the height of Florida's spring break tourism season, acknowledging that it will undoubtedly affect businesses and their employees.
To help businesses owners, DeSantis announced Monday that the state will provide business loans of up to $50,000 for small businesses affected by the outbreak. The program is open to businesses with two to 100 employees.
On Tuesday, DeSantis also ordered all Florida universities to close and provide online classes for the remainder of the semester. His decision came after four University of Florida students tested positive for coronavirus.
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