TABC is Enforcing The Governor’s Protocols in Bars

Yesterday, June 17th, In an industry notice to all TABC-Licensed bars and restaurants in Texas, the agency made it clear to follow the Governor’s Open Texas Order or Face License Suspension.

All bars and restaurants operating in Texas have a duty to follow the checklists developed by the Governor’s Strike Force to Open Texas or face suspension by the TABC.

The reason the protocols were put in place is so that the Texas economy can function without a significant increase in COVID-19 cases and establishments can open and owners and employees can move forward with their livelihood.

The checklists are available at open.texas.gov. Protocols include social distancing of at least 6 feet between groups of customers, indoor customer capacity limits of 50% for bars and 75% for restaurants, plus other safety requirements.

TABC is strictly monitoring bar and restaurant activity to ensure compliance with the checklists. Following these protects the business, customers and community. If the TABC sees that a business is clearly disregarding the checklist protocols, the agency will suspend that business’s license for up to 30 days for the first infraction and up to 60 days for the second.

TABC has inspected thousands of businesses this year and say that most are operating responsibly and following the rules. But if TABC discovers a violation or confirms a complaint about a compliance issue, the agency will take action resulting in just consequences.

The agency says they don’t want to shut any businesses down and understands this is a difficult time for the Texas economy. They encourage bars and restaurants to follow the rules, operate responsibly, and protect the welfare of Texans and Texas in spite of COVID-19.

TABC is ready to help its license and permit holders impacted by the coronavirus when and where they can.

Find TABC’s resources for businesses affected by the pandemic at tabc.texas.gov/coronavirus/. For additional assistance, contact your local TABC regional office or the Austin headquarters at 512-206-3333.