Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards recently allowed the state to move into phase 3 of Covid-19 reopenings, meaning restaurants can open to 75 percent capacity. However, most bars will stay closed and casinos will remain at 50 percent capacity. Also, Edwards announced a new regulation cutting off liquor sales at 10 p.m.
Bars will be allowed to open only in parishes with a positive Covid-19 rate of 5 percent or less for two consecutive weeks. Most recently that included Bienville, Jefferson Davis, Orleans, Plaquemines and St. John the Baptist parishes, according to the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control.
Casino Association of Louisiana Executive Director Wade Duty expressed disappointment that the governor didn’t allow casinos to move up to 75 percent capacity. Duty blamed the “blind spots” caused by Hurricanes Marco and Laura, which disrupted testing throughout the state in late August.
Duty added he’s troubled that casinos will lose revenue due to Edwards’ ban on alcohol service after 10 p.m. “Any time you start subtracting amenities, it is a concern,” he said, noting properties will have to start promoting other amenities, such as their food service.
