Phase 2 in effect

Posted on June 5, 2020

Restrictions placed on local restaurants and bars will begin to relax Friday, June 5, following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ decision to implement “Phase Two” of his three-part plan to re-open Florida.

DeSantis rolled out the next step in Florida’s re-opening Wednesday during a 12 p.m. press conference in Orlando, stating that Florida will allow restaurants to allow bar-top seating and bars to operate at 50% indoor capacity.

“In our phase two, we will be going with bars being able to operate consistent with this guidance — diminished standing room occupancy – so basically outdoor seating with social distance, a certain amount indoors, but you’re seated to get served. I mean…go enjoy. Have a drink. It’s fine,” DeSantis said. “We want to kind of not have huge crowds piling in.”

Entertainment venues, such as movie theaters, playhouses and auditoriums may operate at 50% indoor capacity.

Additionally, retail shops and gyms may resume maximum capacity operations.

“Personal” services, including tattoo parlors, massage and tanning salons, may resume operation.

DeSantis’ “Phase Two” still prohibits visitation to long-term care facilities.

The order officially recommends individuals avoid gatherings larger than 50 people.

Individuals 65 and older, or those with underlying medical conditions, are strongly encouraged to avoid crowds and to continue taking measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

The order also mandates that Florida public universities present a re-opening strategy on June 23.

DeSantis ended the conference by hinting of an imminent announcement involving collegiate sports in the state of Florida.

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