After Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order on Oct. 7, Lamar County Judge Brandon Bell has OK’d local bars in Lamar County to reopen.
“I’m not holding them back,” Bell said. “It’s now up to them whether they want to reopen or not. I don’t want to do anything to keep them shut down.”
Abbott’s executive order allowed bars and similar establishments to open up to 50% capacity in conjunction with county officials. County Judges were able to opt their county into opening bars beginning Oct. 14.
“Of course, I think they should be careful just like every other business,” Bell said.
According to the governor’s executive order, for Trauma Service Areas where COVID-19 hospitalizations are less than 15% of hospital capacity, a County Judge may authorize the opening of bars and similar establishments at 50% occupancy.
“Opening bars does not mean that COVID-19 is no longer a threat, and most Texans are still susceptible to the virus,” Abbott said. “As bars and similar businesses begin to open, we all must remain vigilant and show personal responsibility to protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
Requirements
As recommended by trade associations representing bars, dance floors at bars and similar establishments must remain closed.
Consistent with protocols for restaurants, all patrons must be seated while eating or drinking (with limited exceptions for sampling at breweries, distilleries, and wineries), and must wear masks when they are not seated at a table.
Additionally, tables must be limited to six individuals or less and all establishments must follow specific curfew guidelines.
For a list of other protocols, click here.
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