FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — During Gov. Andy Beshear's Monday press conference, Gov. Beshear and Chief of Staff La Tasha Buckner announced that restaurants and bars in Kentucky can be open at 50% capacity. The announcement comes two weeks after Gov. Beshear ordered bars to close and for restaurants to only allow 25% capacity.
"If we don't, people are pushed towards more house parties that we've seen in other states where no rules are followed," Gov. Beshear said. "Our goal is to have a right structure of rules where people can have that outlet if they're looking for it, but to do it in a safe place and to do it in a safe manner."
Chief of Staff Dixon emphasized that restaurants and bars should still maximize outdoor seating.
"We want to promote people using that outdoor space and maximizing that outdoor space because in the end, everyone is a little better outside when doing this," Buckner said.
While bars can reopen, congregating at the bar will be prohibited. The same rule applies to restaurants with a bar area. Masks will also be required in bars and restaurants unless you are seated at the table. This means that any individual entering a bar or restaurant, leaving a bar or restaurant or going to the bathroom in a bar or restaurant should be wearing a mask.
All food and drink service must stop at 10 pm and every bar and restaurant must close by 11 pm.
"By following this, we hope that everyone can stay open and we can enjoy these great restaurants and bars that we have in Kentucky," Buckner finalized.
