Miami Beach City Manager Jimmy Morales will be suspending enforcement of the countywide curfew in Miami Beach.
“In light of the court ruling enjoining the county from enforcing the curfew and after consulting our city attorney, I have directed city staff to suspend enforcement of the curfew in Miami Beach, including the 8 pm closure of liquor stores outside the MXE, pending appeal of the court order,” Morale said.
Miami Beach clubs can stay open past midnight and serve alcohol past 8 p.m.
The curfew, which was put in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, affected many businesses, including bars, restaurants, and night clubs.
A court victory by Tootsies strip Club is what sparked the shut down of Miami-Dade’s curfew for the nightlife industry. Miami and Miami Beach will not enforce curfew after judge Beatrice Butchko found the county’s curfew in conflict with Gov. Ron DeSantis’ emergency orders.
Most clubs, will now be able to keep their doors open until 5 a.m.
“Miami-Dade County has filed an appeal. As of right now, the County cannot enforce the curfew at businesses until resolution of the appeal. From a practical matter, the curfew is unenforceable until the appeal is settled by the courts. However, we can and will continue to enforce the County’s orders on facial coverings, distancing and important rules governing public health protocols for businesses.”
“I want to reiterate that if everyone wears masks in public places and stays away from large social gatherings, which can trigger dangerous super-spreader events, we can continue to keep the COVID-19 positivity rate low and not overwhelm our hospitals with very sick patients.”
“Our public health experts are predicting a rise in cases and a potential spike by mid-November, which is why everyone must take special care to follow the safety rules. I am asking our residents and business owners to keep your guard up and diligently follow the County’s safety rules to protect our community during this pandemic. Please, continue to do your part to save lives.” said the office of Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez in a statement.
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