Texas Bars, Wine Tasting Rooms, and Distilleries Left In The Dark

As of July 30, it's been 35 days since Governor Greg Abbott ordered all bars, wine tasting rooms, and distilleries to close. After the 10th day, you probably didn't hear much about the closures.

Bars were blamed for "young people" spreading coronavirus and Governor Abbott has said several times that bars and a pandemic just don't go together. I guess that's one argument, but isn't there another side of the story?

Why is it that bars can't be open at even 20% capacity or just allow patios to be open? Why can't wine tasting rooms or wine bars (not exactly the most crowded places ever) be open at a reduced occupancy? Same goes for distilleries. Sure, these places can operate on a to-go model, but that doesn't work long term.

The worst part? There has been little to no communication from the State of Texas for 35 days for these businesses. Real people. Real jobs. Some who have invested everything. And they hear nothing.

That seems wrong.

My thoughts above. The Chad Hasty Show airs 8:30-11am on News/Talk 95.1 FM and 790 AM KFYO in Lubbock, TX.