GOV. ABBOTT ANNOUNCES LIMITED REOPENING OF BARS OCTOBER 14TH
COUNTY JUDGES WILL DECIDE WHETHER TO "OPT IN" TO REOPENING OF BARS
Bars in Texas will soon be able to reopen for the first time in months, but with certain conditions.
Governor Greg Abbott announced this (Wednesday) afternoon that starting Wednesday, October 14th, bars will be allowed to open up to 50 percent inside capacity.
County judges in hospital regions with COVID-19 hospitalization rates lower than 15 percent will be given authority to opt their counties into opening bars, so long as they assist in enforcing health protocols.
Abbott’s order also raises the occupancy limit to 75 percent for all businesses, other than bars.
The order requires customers at bars or similar establishments to be seated while eating or drinking. Patrons are required to wear masks when they are not seated. Tables will allow no more than six people.
There is no occupancy limit outdoors. Dance floors will be kept closed, as recommended by the bar and nightclub industry.
KWHI reached out this afternoon to Washington County Judge John Durrenberger, who said he will further read up on the announcement before deciding whether the county will opt in to the re-opening.