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AUSTIN, TX – Two Austin restaurants were forced to withdraw their policy of requiring proof of at least one round of COVID-19 vaccination after receiving a notice from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission on Wednesday.
Sister restaurants Launderette and Fresas Austin said they would no longer need proof of vaccination for indoor dining as of now, according to a Facebook post published Thursday.
“Yesterday we received a message from TABC that the law (Section 14 of the new Senate Act 968, introduced in June) does not allow us to request proof of vaccination while eating,” laundromat officials said. “We will continue to require that guests wear masks indoors when they are not at a table. No masks are required for outdoor meals. “
While the restaurant has been informed that it is violating Section 14 of SB 968, the real concern of the state is compliance with Section 9 (C).
According to Section 9 (C):
TABC told Launderette in the letter that the agency had received complaints about the restaurant’s new policy.
Patch reached out to TABC on Thursday for comment.
In both cases, the agency’s managers informed the agency that they were unaware of the full requirements of the law and immediately took steps to ensure compliance.
“Although the agency has not yet taken any formal action against companies, we have requested a meeting with representatives from companies that may have potential violations,” TABC officials said. “TABC strives to work with business owners to ensure they have the information necessary to comply with all state laws, including the provisions of Senate Act 968.
“Our goal is to educate and inform these companies instead of punishing them. TABC will continue to coordinate with business owners and trade groups across the state to ensure that the alcoholic beverage industry is fully aware of the new requirements. “
Both Launderette and Fresa took to Instagram on Monday, stating that they would provide evidence of at least an initial round of COVID-19 vaccination from anyone who wishes to dine indoors in their restaurants.
The posts shared on their pages state that guests are required to wear masks indoors when they are not at a table, and adds that outside guests do not need a vaccine certificate or wear masks.
The policy came in the wake of several musicians, such as Jason Isbell, A vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 test is required to attend their concerts in Austin.
Several people replied to the messages online, including Austin Mayor Steve Adler, saying the state of Texas has exceeded its privilege to operate.
“So now a private company can’t protect its employees and customers? Will this affect live music venues trying to accommodate the bands’ requests? Will artists like @JasonIsbell just skip Texas on their next tour?” Adler said in a tweet. “@GovAbbott, don’t mess with Texas companies.”
TABC officials said they couldn’t respond to requests from musicians because the state agency only regulates companies that make, distribute or sell alcoholic beverages.
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