Arizona Governor Doug Ducey on Friday lifted capacity restrictions at gyms, restaurants and other businesses.
Ducey cites the declining COVID-19 cases and the introduction of the vaccine for easing the pandemic restrictions that have turned life upside down for nearly a year.
The lifting of capacity restrictions applies to gyms, restaurants, theaters, water parks, bowling alleys and bars that provide dining services.
Arizona has not had a statewide mask mandate. But most local governments have implemented them and they are not affected by Ducey’s latest order.
Despite being legally allowed to resume operations at 100% capacity, two restaurants are cautious about allowing more customers due to health concerns and other state guidelines that put the brakes on a full restaurant.
Governor Ducey’s said that even without capacity constraints, restaurants and businesses must still adhere to six-foot social distance guidelines.
“You still need that extra space to make sure you’re doing the necessary social distance,” said Summer Anesin, owner of Little O’s Restaurants. “With the distance limitations of 1.8 meters, there won’t be many options for 100% capacity.”
The need for social distance, of course, in most cases negates the ability to regain its full potential.
“We still love the fear factor people have and love security, we didn’t want to be like ‘Bam! Free for everyone,’” Anesin said.
“I can’t do it 100%,” said Silvana Esparza, owner of Barrio Cafe. ‘Even if I could, I wouldn’t. It wouldn’t be ethically right, the right thing to endanger people? ‘
The Arizona Restaurant Association is ecstatic about the governor’s decision.
“Restaurants across Arizona have done a great job implementing mitigation measures, protecting customers and staff, and staying agile,” said Steve Chucri, president and CEO of Arizona Restaurant Association. “Restricted occupancy and restrictive measures have been in place for many months – our restaurants know what to do. The current order to lift occupancy restrictions will help Arizona’s restaurant industry to thrive while maintaining community safety through mitigation measures. Thanks to Governor Ducey for working to protect Arizonans and our economy. “