Three Downtown Bars Facing COVID Fines from Halloween

A previous version of this story was edited to clarify Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds new restrictions.

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Three downtown Des Moines bars are being fined for failing to comply with coronavirus guidelines on Halloween.

The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division says the Stuffed Olive, Voodoo Lounge, and Copper Cup are accused of failing to ensure six feet of social distance between customers.

The ABD says October 31st, the bars violated a mid-October disaster emergency proclamation from the state that requires six-feet of physical distance between groups or individuals dining or drinking.

They're also accused of failing to implement reasonable measures for increased hygiene practices.

All bars have the right to a hearing to dispute the claims against them.

A bar in Iowa City agreed to pay a one-thousand dollar fine to settle a similar violation.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds added new coronavirus restrictions, including limiting youth and high school sports to two spectators per athlete, and masks are required in groups of 25-or-more inside.

Bars and restaurants are still open, but customers must be spaced out six-feet and seated.

Employers are also urged to allow as many people to work from home as possible.


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