TABC found 59 Texas bars violating pandemic order, suspended 7 that refused to close
Texas authorities have suspended seven bars across the state for failing to comply with Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order to close at noon Friday to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission suspended the alcohol permits for 30 days for five bars on Monday after suspending two on Friday.
The closest establishment to Dallas-Fort Worth is The Venue Private Club in Wills Point, which is about 50 miles east of Dallas. Bars in Longview and Abilene were also suspended on Friday.
Abbott’s order requires all bars earning at least 51% of their revenue from sales of alcohol to suspend operations.
Restaurants earning less than 51% of their revenue from alcohol sales may continue to operate at 50% of their indoor seating capacity.
A second violation could mean a 60-day suspension. Continued violations may result in additional penalties, including canceling the businesses’ alcohol license or permit, according to a TABC release.
TABC agents visited almost 1,500 businesses around the state June 26-28 and found 59 in violation of the order. Of those, 52 agreed to immediately cease operations. Seven businesses did not agree and the permit was suspended.
Texans can report a potential violation by emailing complaints@tabc.texas.gov, calling 888-843-8222, or using the free TABC mobile app for Apple and Android devices.
Suspended June 29:
Black Stone USA, Fredericksburg
Bokeeters Cocktail Bar, New Caney
Prospect Park, Houston
The Park at The Domain, Austin
The Venue Private Club, Wills Point
Suspended June 26:
Whiskey Girl, Abilene
Outlaws Longview, Longview
This story was originally published June 29, 2020 at 5:32 PM.
