Florida’s Governor Lifts All COVID-19 Restrictions On Businesses Statewide

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, pictured during a news conference last month, says his state is ready to respond if a surge of coronavirus infections emerges.

Chris O'Meara / AP

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says he is lifting all restrictions on businesses statewide that were imposed to control the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Most significantly, that means restaurants and bars in the state can now operate at full capacity.

Up to now, restaurants and bars in Florida could serve customers indoors at just 50% of legal occupancy. DeSantis said his new executive order lifts that restriction statewide, though local governments can keep additional limits in place if they’re justified for health or economic reasons.

“Every business has the right to operate,” DeSantis said. “Some of the locals can do reasonable regulations. But you can’t just say no.”