Governor Ron DeSantis is signing an executive order today closing all bars and nightclubs for the next 30 days. He also suggests beach groups of no more than 10 people.
Restaurants can remain open for now but must maintain a 6-foot distance between people and stay under 50% capacity.
"I want to commend Governor DeSantis for his extraordinary leadership in keeping Floridians safe during this unprecedented time," said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. "We appreciated the thoughtful and measured approach to this historic emergency event. Permitting them [restaurants] to remain open will allow local businesses to continue to operate and provide employment while also providing an additional resource for consumer demand."
It's unclear how the state defines what a bar is. Many restaurants have bars, and many bars also serve food. WFSU reached out to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for clarification The agency says its, "currently working on the order and more information will be available soon."
