Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey lifted capacity restrictions on gyms, restaurants and other companies on Friday.
Ducey mentions the decrease in COVID-19 cases and the launch of the vaccine, as it eases the pandemic restrictions that have raised life for almost a year.
Lifting capacity restrictions applies to gyms, restaurants, theaters, water parks, bowling alleys and bars that offer dining services.
Arizona did not have a statewide mask mandate. But most local governments have implemented them and are not affected by Ducey’s latest order.
Despite being legally allowed to resume operations at 100% capacity, two restaurants are cautious about allowing more customers due to health issues and other state guidelines that pump the brakes of a full restaurant.
Governor Ducey said that even without capacity constraints, restaurants and companies must continue to follow the six-foot social distance guidelines.
“You still need that extra space to make sure you make the social distance you need,” said Summer Anesin, owner of Little O’s restaurants. “With the 6-foot distance restrictions, there won’t be many opportunities for 100% capacity.”
The need for social distance, in most cases, naturally denies the ability to return to full capacity.
“Even as the fear factor that people have and they like safety, we didn’t want to be like ‘Bam! Bam!’ Free for everyone “, said Anesin.
“I can’t do 100%,” said Silvana Esparza, owner of Barrio Cafe. “Even if I could, I wouldn’t do it. Wouldn’t it be ethically correct what needs to be done to endanger people?”
The Arizona Restaurant Association is ecstatic about the governor’s decision.
“Arizona restaurants have done an incredible job of implementing mitigation measures, protecting customers and staff, and staying flexible,” said Arizona Restaurant Association President and CEO Steve Chucri. “Limited occupancy and mitigation measures have been in place for several months – our restaurants know what to do. Today’s order to lift occupancy restrictions will help Arizona’s restaurant industry thrive, while maintaining community safety through mitigation measures. We thank Governor Ducey for working to protect Arizonans and our economy. ”