Ron DeSantis signs strict COVID-19 executive order for Broward and Palm Beach

With the spread of the Coronavirus having a significant impact in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has signed an Executive Order (20-17) that mandates “all movie theatres, concert houses, auditoriums, playhouses, bowling alleys, arcades, gymnasiums, fitness studios, and beaches to close in Broward County and Palm Beach County.”

DeSantis’ office has stated that the closures will expire on March 31, 2020d, but could be “renewed” upon the written requests of the County Administrator of both counties.

DeSantis’ order also forces all bars, night clubs, banquet halls, cafeterias, restaurants, and “ any other alcohol and/or food service business establishments” with seating capacities of 10 people or more within these two counties to “close on-premises service of customers.

Local restaurants in Broward County like Starbuck’s have already pulled their tables and chairs earlier this week. Fast food restaurants like McDonald’s and Wendy’s still have their dining rooms open, but all that is about to change.

There is no need to read between the lines. The DeSantis administration is at the very least, preparing for a huge outbreak in two of Florida’s most populous counties.

According to the Florida Dept. of Health, Miami-Dade County has just surpassed Broward County with the most infections and deaths related to the virus. There are currently 52o reported cases of COVID-19 in Florida. This is rising rapidly.

Here is the latest update: