(WTXL) — Gov. Ron DeSantis is suspending all bars and nightclubs in Florida for the next 30 days starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday night.
DeSantis made the announcement during a press conference Tuesday morning, where he also announced that Florida's coronavirus cases have climbed to 192. He also announced the state's 6th death from the coronavirus as a nursing home patient in Broward County.
The governor says "reducing density" is the best thing the state of Florida can do to prevent community spread of COVID-19 and suspended all bars and nightclubs from operating in Florida for the next 30 days.
Emergency Management Director Jared Moskowitz further clarified DeSantis' directive, saying that all the bars in clubs in the state will be shut down at 5 p.m. on Tuesday and will stay closed for the next 30 days as the state works to limit community spread of the coronavirus.
Restaurant must also limit their seating capacity to 50 percent. Seating must be staggered and limited to ensure seated parties are separated by a distance of at least six feet, in accordance with CDC guidelines.
All restaurant employees must also be screened for the virus. State officials are encouraging people to utilize takeout and delivery at local restaurants in lieu of dining in.
DeSantis also banned gatherings of more than 10 people on Florida's beaches in compliance with the White House's recommendations.
Schools across the state have already shut down for the next few weeks an many workers are being asked to work from home.
You can watch the full press conference below:
