Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey lifted capacity constraints at gyms, restaurants and other businesses Friday.
Ducey cites the declining COVID-19 cases and the introduction of the vaccine, as he eases the pandemic limitations that make life rise for nearly a year.
The lifting of capacity restrictions applies to gyms, restaurants, theaters, water parks, bowling alleys and bars that offer dinner.
Arizona does not have a mandate over the entire country. But most local governments have implemented it and they are not affected by Ducey’s latest assignment.
Despite the fact that they are legally allowed to continue with 100% capacity, two restaurants are wary of allowing more customers due to healthcare and other guidelines that allow the brakes to be pumped into a full restaurant.
Governor Ducey’s said that even restaurants and businesses, without capacity constraints, must still adhere to the social distance guidelines.
“You still need that extra space to make sure you take the social distance needed,” said Summer Anesin, owner of Little O’s Restaurants. “With the limitations of the distance, of 6 feet, there are not many opportunities for 100% capacity.”
The need for social distance mostly ignores the ability to return to full capacity.
“Still, like the fear factor people have, and like safety, we do not want to be like ‘Bam! Free for everyone’,” Anesin said.
“There’s no way I could do 100%,” said Barrio Cafe owner Silvana Esparza. “Even if I did not, I would not. That would not be ethically right, the right thing to do to endanger people? ‘
The Arizona Restaurant Association is ecstatic about the governor’s decision.
“Restaurants across Arizona have done an incredible job implementing mitigation measures, patrons and staff, and remain flexible,” said Steve Chucri, president and CEO of Arizona Restaurant Association. “There have been limited occupancy and mitigation measures for many months – our restaurants know what to do. Today’s mandate to lift occupancy restrictions will help Arizona’s restaurant industry thrive while maintaining community safety through mitigation measures. Thank you to Governor Ducey for working to protect Arizonans and our economy. ”