Liquor licenses in three Houston area clubs have been temporarily suspended after violating COVID-19 safety measures set by the governor’s executive orders.
Many of these clubs had already received several warnings from officials including the Houston Mayor.
The mayor said in a tweet he feels that “Only legitimate restaurants should be open at this time.”
The violations included in governor Gred Abbott’s executive order GA-32 have occurred several times in the past including major ones just days before.
Spire had exceeded occupancy on their premises which led to the evacuation of hundreds of people.
“Supposedly the club sold tickets in advanced and when people arrived here, they were upset because they couldn’t get in and they couldn’t get a refund on their tickets.” Said the Houston Police Department, Lt. Pavel.
These violations consist of the incompliance in social distancing, wearing masks, and exceeding capacity limits.
Houston Grooves LLC will be facing a 30-day liquor licence suspension.
For some clubs, this is not the first time their liquor licence has been suspended.
Clé was issued a 60-day suspension on January 19 and was previously suspended in September for three days.
Spire was issued a 90-day suspension on January 19 as well and was previously suspended twice. The first time was in July for 30 days and the second time was in October for 60 days.
According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, these businesses are entitled to a hearing before the state administrative judge.
These emergency orders will remain in effect until the end of the suspension or a judge’s ruling.
Produced by Shivani Parmar