
All indoor bar areas in Minneapolis must close for regular service starting Aug. 1, according to an emergency regulation issued by Mayor Jacob Frey.
"The data has become clear that in both urban and rural areas, bars are very high-risk locations for Covid-19 outbreaks in Minneapolis," Frey said. "We know at least nine bars that have been tied to patron outbreaks. At least three bars have been tied to employee outbreaks."
Frey said that since bars and restaurants have been open, the city has seen its seven-day weekly average go up "pretty significantly."
"A night out at the bar is too often leading to nights in the hospital for family, for friends, and for neighbors," he added. "By focusing on bar areas, which are proven to be hotbeds for congregation and community spread, we can help keep both Minneapolis and Minnesotans safe and help keep trends stable."
The closure would also cover taprooms, distilleries, and nightclubs, Frey said. Restaurants with a bar area are also required to keep their bars closed for the duration of the emergency regulations.