TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida businesses can now renew their liquor licenses through Dec. 31, 2020 thanks to an executive order from Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The governor said the executive order was a decision to support businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19.
Secretary of Department of Business and Professional Regulation Halsey Beshears commented on the extension Friday evening.
"Governor has extended the renewal fees for alcohol licenses through the end of the year. While they can’t be waived yet, this offers some relief till we get the bars open. This came as a result of our meetings. Thank u @GovRonDeSantis! thanks to all owners from our meetings."
In June, Florida banned alcohol consumption at bars in response to a rise in COVID-19 cases across the state. While the state has moved through phases of reopening, the decisions on opening bars to the public has stayed the same.
Beshears met with bar and brewery owners last month to look into how to safely reopen bars. No action on the topic has yet to be taken.
- Florida's largest teachers' union victory on reopening schools short-lived as judge reinstates emergency stay
- VERIFY: Fact-checking the final night of the Republican National Convention
- Deputies: Florida man arrested for robbery while out on bond
- Man serving life for murder cleared after 37 years thanks to DNA
- Archaeologists search for more graves at old Pinellas County school
- Lightning, Bruins Game 4 postponed in support of social justice
►Breaking news and weather alerts: Get the free 10 Tampa Bay app
►Stay In the Know! Sign up now for the Brightside Blend Newsletter