Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey lifted capacity restrictions on gyms, restaurants and other businesses Friday.
Ducey cites declining COVID-19 cases and the deployment of the vaccine as it alleviates pandemic restrictions that have increased life for nearly a year.
The lifting of capacity restrictions applies to gyms, restaurants, theaters, water parks, bowling alleys and bars offering dinner services.
Arizona has not had a state mask mandate. But most local governments enforced them and are not affected by Ducey’s latest order.
While they are legally allowed to resume operations at 100% capacity, two restaurants are being cautious when it comes to allowing more customers due to health issues and other state guidelines that slow down a full restaurant.
Governor Ducey said that even without capacity limitations, restaurants and businesses still have to meet the six-meter social distance guidelines.
“You still need that extra space to make sure you do the social distancing you need,” said Summer Anesin, owner of Little O’s Restaurants. “With the 6-foot distance restrictions, there won’t be many opportunities to get 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 like security, we didn’t want to say,‘ Bam! Free for all, “Anesin said.
“There’s no way to do it 100%,” said Silvana Esparza, owner of the Barrio Cafe. “Even if I could I wouldn’t. Wouldn’t it be ethically right, right to put people in danger?”
The Arizona Restaurant Association is ecstatic about the governor’s decision.
“Restaurants across Arizona have done an incredible job of implementing mitigation measures, protecting landlords and staff, and staying flexible,” said Steve Chucri, president and CEO of the Restaurant Association. of Arizona. “For many months now, there have been limited employment and mitigation measures: our restaurants know what to do. Today’s order to remove employment restrictions will help Arizona’s restaurant industry thrive, all maintaining community safety through mitigation measures.Thanks to Governor Ducey for working to protect Arizonans and our economy. “