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Oct 7, 2020

TABC Will Work With County Governments, Alcoholic Beverage Industry To Ensure A Safe Reopening Of Bars Across Texas

AUSTIN – The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is working with county governments and alcoholic beverage industry members to ensure the safe reopening of thousands of Texas bars and clubs beginning Oct. 14.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday announced the reopening plan, which allows bars to reopen at 50% capacity once their county judge has certified that the county meets certain COVID-19 case or hospitalization standards set by state health officials. A certification form and instructions will be housed on the TABC website, along with information showing the counties that have allowed bars to reopen.

“We greatly appreciate the trust Governor Abbott has placed in the alcoholic beverage industry,” TABC Executive Director Bentley Nettles said. “The Governor’s plan offers a path for county judges to reopen multiple business types in their counties, including bars, breweries, distilleries and more. We’re grateful to all of the industry members who have put safety first since the pandemic began. I know countless Texans have eagerly awaited this day.”

TABC staff will work closely with county governments, alcoholic beverage industry members and the Office of the Governor to provide guidelines for local officials and businesses alike, Nettles said.

For the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the Texas alcoholic beverage industry, visit: tabc.texas.gov/coronavirus.

To read the Governor’s executive order, visit: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-issues-executive-order-to-open-bars-in-qualifying-counties  

Media Contact:

Chris Porter

Public Information Officer

chris.porter@tabc.texas.gov