Governor DeSantis Announces Phase 2 Reopening; South Florida Excluded

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced plans for the state to move into phase 2 reopening beginning on Friday, June 5.

Phase two includes allowing movie theaters, bars, nightclubs and concert venues to reopen.

“In our phase two, we will be going with bars being able to operate consistent with this guidance diminished standing room occupancy so basically outdoor seating with social distance, a certain amount indoors, but you’re seated to get served. I mean … go enjoy. Have a drink. It’s fine," DeSantis said. “We want to kind of not have huge crowds piling in.”

Under phase two, bars and pubs may operate at 50% capacity inside and full capacity outside for dine-in service.

The governor will also allow movie theaters and entertainment venues to open with 50% capacity.

“Movie theaters, and bowling alleys, they have a 50% capacity appropriate social distancing and sanitation protocols. Those have not been operating up to this point, you know they now have a pathway to do that,” DeSantis said.

Pari-mutual facilities, which typically house events like slots, racing wagers and cardrooms, will also be able to reopen with strict health and safety guidelines under phase two.

Additionally, gymnasiums, restaurants and stores will be allowed to expand their capacity.

Similar to the announcement of the phase 1 reopening in May, DeSantis has excluded the South Florida counties, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, which is still ground zero.

“Today as we take another step, we’re applying this to the 64 counties, and obviously going to work with the three southeast Florida counties, as we go forward,” DeSantis said.

“Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach may seek approval to enter Phase 2 with a written request from the county mayor,” a post by DeSantis read.