Governor DeSantis Announces Florida Counties May Enter Phase 2 of Florida’s Reopening Plan

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his plan to move Florida counties into Phase 2 of Florida’s three-phase plan to reopen the economy. Florida is to enter Phase 2 on Friday, June 5. Phase 2 will include all counties except Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties where the highest concentration of COVID-19 cases have been reported. The specifics of Phase 2 have been set forth in Executive Order 20-139.

Phase 2 includes the reopening of bars, movie theaters, concert halls and bowling alleys. Such establishments will be permitted to operate at 50% capacity with social distancing restrictions. 

The Order states that restaurants, bars and other vendors licensed to sell alcoholic beverages on premises may operate at 50% capacity. However, bar areas must be open with seated service. Additionally, restaurants and bars may utilize their outdoor seating provided there is appropriate social distancing. It should be noted that this section does not apply to nightclubs. 

Under Phase 2, retail businesses, gyms and fitness centers are authorized to operate at capacity but are encouraged to follow appropriate social distancing and safety protocols issued by the CDC and OSHA.

While Phase 2 will not apply to Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, DeSantis stated that those counties may seek approval to enter Phase 2 with a written request from the county mayor.