On Friday, June 26, Florida has reached almost 9,000 new COVID-19 cases in one day. As a response the Florida Department of Business and Professionals Regulation (DBPR) issued Emergency Order 2020-09 prohibiting bars from providing the consumption of alcohol on premises.
“Based on recent increases in COVID-19 cases and non-compliance with previous orders, DBPR has taken action to suspend on-premises alcohol sales at bars,” DBPR Secretary Halsey Beshears said in a statement the afternoon of June 26. “DBPR believes this is a necessary step to take to protect public health as we continue working in partnership with industry and health officials to combat COVID-19.”
There are still a few questions since the order was released. Here’s what we know:
- The order applies to establishments that derive more than 50% of gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages. These establishments can continue to sell alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for consumption off premises.
- An establishment must sell 49 percent or less of gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages
- Restaurants that have bar seating can continue to seat guests at the bar and serve them
- All patrons must be seated to receive service
- All patrons must be seated six feet away from each other
For more information, visit the City of Gulfport COVID-19 webpage or call 727-893-1000. All State of Florida Executive Orders can be found here.
