Louisiana Restaurant Association President Stan Harris applauded the state’s move into Phase Three but says the industry is still reeling.
Phase Three allows for restaurants to operate at 75 percent capacity. Harris said he hopes we can soon do away with any capacity limits, but maintain social distancing and other mitigation measures.
Texas recently did away with all capacity restrictions in-state businesses. It also did away with the mask mandate.
Harris said there’s a misconception that 75 percent capacity means 75 percent of their non-pandemic level seats. For example, he said a restaurant that was completely booked a week ago at 50 percent capacity really only had 30 percent of their pre-pandemic seats full. Harris also said about 20 percent of state bars and restaurants have been lost to the pandemic with about 15 to 20 percent in danger of closing imminently.
Harris asked for patience from customers are they experience the highly limited bar and music venue openings, he says standing room, dancing, and bar service are still no-goes.
“This is a start to get us back to what used to be normal and we have to take those smaller steps along the way,” said Harris.
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