Wednesday afternoon, Governor Abbott issued Executive Order
GA-32, giving county officials with COVID-19 hospitalizations of less than 15% hospital capacity, the authority to allow bars and similar establishments in their area to open at 50% capacity starting October 14. Capacity limits are for in-person service only, there are no outdoors capacity limits on bars or similar establishments. All businesses other than bars currently limited to 50% capacity are now allowed to operate at 75% capacity. Those businesses include:
- Movie theaters
- Bowling alleys
- Amusement parks
- Bingo halls
All County judges who choose to open bars in their region must assist in enforcing health and safety protocols. 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.
That evening, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff announced that he will
not open bars at this time but will consult with local public health officials and re-evaluate next week.
This is indeed great news, as it means we are making strides to re-open the Texas economy and get Texans back to work. But, to do this successfully, we need to continue to work together to ensure the safety of our employees and customers. Please do your part by wearing a mask, social distancing and washing your hands. Together we can help get San Antonio get back on its feet.
