Texas Restaurant Association Lobbies the State to Not Close Restaurants and Bars During Coronavirus Pandemic

As a number of states have moved to shut down their bars and restaurants during the global coronavirus pandemic, restricting service to delivery and takeout only, the Texas Restaurant Association is urging Texas to keep its restaurants, bars, and other food-related businesses open.

The TRA believes that restaurants are already taking the necessary precautions to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus through the implementation of takeout service, delivery options, and drive-thrus (as many Austin restaurants have been doing recently). The association believes that restaurants are crucial right now, as grocery stores, such as H-E-B, are regularly out of stock because of panic shopping, and a wave of students have returned home as schools close.

As of this time, Governor Greg Abbott hasn’t issued mandates to shut down the state’s restaurants and bars. Austin restaurant Olamaie and cocktail bar Small Victory, among others, have or will close temporarily in order to help mitigate the spread of the virus.

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