New York to Release Plans for Large Venues to Reopen

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It looks like we are getting one-step closer to reopening large venues here in New York. According to WIVB, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today, that the State would soon be releasing guidelines. During a COVID-19 update today, Tuesday, February 9, 2021, the Governor spoke about plans to reopen large venues. He said the State is using the Buffalo Bills playoff games as models. The plan is to have attendees of sporting or other events with large crowds get tested prior to entering the venues. The large venue reopening guidelines should be available next week.

The state has already released guidance for wedding receptions. They will be allowed again, starting March 15. The venue can only allow half of their capacity, up to 150 people. Everyone must get tested and the event must be pre-approved by the health department.

Additionally, everyone who attends must get tested for COVID-19 beforehand and the local health department must approve the event itself.

Curfew Lifted for Buffalo Bars and Restaurants

Meanwhile, the 91 bars and restaurants that sued New York State and Governor Cuomo to stay open later than 10 pm, have won, at least temporarily. According to WIVB, they are able to remain open, past the State-imposed curfew. The judge in the case issued a temporary restraining order on behalf of the plaintiffs. This move buys them time to stay open later while they await a final decision. Governor Andrew Cuomo, the New York State Department of Health, and the New York State Liquor Authority are named in the lawsuit.

Attorney Steve Cohen, who is from the law firm HoganWillig Attorneys at Law, which is representing the clients said,

We are pleased Judge Timothy Walker lifted the 10:00 PM curfew for our clients (91 clubs, restaurants and bars) in Erie County and Monroe County. We are pleased to be working with Paul Cambria, Esq. from Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria on this case. We have different clients who are united in interest.