On Thursday evening, Halsey Beshears, Secretary of the DBPR, announced via Twitter that all Florida bars can be reopened at 50% occupancy beginning Monday, September 14th.

In the Twitter post the Secretary wrote:

“We are rescinding amended EO 20-09 from DBPR as of Monday. Starting Monday, all bars will be reopened at 50% occupancy.”

It’s important to note that while the tweet says one thing, the actual Executive Order says another. As Beverage Law Professional Gil Osterloh pointed out:

“The 50% occupancy limit referenced in DBPR Secretary Beshear’s tweet is a nod to Governor DeSantis’ EO 20-139 which stipulates 50% occupancy in bars and restaurants and which is still in effect. After the Governor’s round table discussion today, I expect to see the 50% occupancy limit go away for DBPR food service licensees within the next 7 to 14 days.”

Alcohol services at bars has been suspended since June 26th.