ALBANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — Restaurants and bars in New York State can now remain open until 11pm.
Governor Cuomo announced the change, which begins Sunday, February 14, during an update on Friday. The governor cited declining COVID-19 hospitalization and infection rates statewide, for the decision to extend closing times from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.
"Our decisions are based on science and data and we adjust as the virus adjusts. The infection rate and hospitalizations have continued to significantly decline," Governor Cuomo said. "Accordingly, we have adjusted with arena and catering hall openings with rigorous testing and limited capacity indoor dining openings in New York City. We will also move the restaurant and bar closing hour from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. statewide on Sunday. We will continue to follow the science and react accordingly. If we keep the infections down and vaccinations up, we will continue to stay ahead in the footrace against this invisible enemy."
This has been a back and forth battle for many restaurants across the state of New York. Earlier this month, more than 90 bars and restaurants in Western New York that sued New York State over the 10 p.m. indoor dining curfew were allowed to temporarily stay open after 10 p.m. following a judge's decision. However, that decision was reversed on Wednesday when a judge issued a "stay" on that previous decision.
