I'm calling on Quad Cities and State of Illinois elected officials to support COVID-19 mitigation efforts that allow bars and restaurants to serve indoor customers safely and responsibly. Please reverse the new restrictions limiting indoor dining.

The State of Illinois has placed additional restrictions on businesses starting Nov. 4th because of increased COVID-19 positivity rates across the state and region. While most businesses can continue to operate without further adjustments, bars and restaurants are being targeted with additional restrictions despite adapting their practices based on COVID-19 guidelines.

As colder weather approaches, outdoor dining will soon become impractical or impossible for most establishments; and without flexible mitigation efforts that allow for indoor service, some businesses could be forced to close. We do not want our vibrant restaurant community wiped out because the restrictions went too far.

Over the past year, restaurants and bars have implemented new and enhanced policies and procedures to protect the safety and health of employees and patrons alike. Restaurants and bars have invested significant time and money towards sanitation, PPE, social distancing, timed reservation blocks, face coverings, hand sanitizer stations, signage, and more. Despite all of this, restaurants continue to bear the brunt of COVID-19 restriction without the financial support needed to survive continued closures.

These latest mitigation efforts single out one industry that will spell devastation and permanent closure for many local bars and restaurants. Restaurants and bars can operate safely while serving customers indoors and should be allowed to do so while following COVID-19 health guidance. 

Please reconsider current mitigation efforts and allow businesses to remain open for indoor service.