Ducey allows restaurants & bars to return to 100% occupancy – if they can

Gov. Doug Ducey has announced a loosening of Arizona’s covid-19 restrictions to allow restaurants and bars to immediately return to 100% occupancy.

The catch? They still must maintain at least 6 feet between tables for social distancing, require customers to wear masks when not eating or drinking, and continue in-depth cleaning procedures.

‘‘We need to continue practicing personal responsibility,’’ Ducey said in a statement. ‘‘Wear a mask. Social distance.’’

Some restaurants and bars already have announced they will voluntarily continue to operate with reduced occupancy or offer only takeout.

For many, it’s a moot point.

‘‘The reason we are at 50% capacity is because that is what it takes to social distance at 6ft apart?!?!’’ Jolie’s Place in Chandler posted on social media. ‘‘So if you raise the capacity to 100%, yet keep the social distancing, no standing, no mingling in place, where is the change?’’

Ducey’s order also applies to gyms, movie theaters, bowling alleys, and water parks.