For a fourth time, an Austin bar has had its license suspended by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission over claims it has not followed social distancing rules and guidelines. On Monday, the Soho Lounge on East 6th Street was cited by the TABC for issues related to overcapacity.
Over the weekend, three other local establishments also had their licenses suspended, including Unbarlievable, Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, and the Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Icehouse. On Monday, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot released a statement in response to its suspension.
“Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Icehouse reopened for business in compliance with the guidelines of the Governor’s Executive Order,” the statement says in part. “Subsequently, the State has shut us down claiming the continuation of our operations would constitute a threat to the public welfare. However, on the evening of June 19, 2020, during an inspection of the premises, the State officials did not advise, warn or express any concern of an alleged “threat to the public welfare”. On the contrary, the State officials expressed their satisfaction with Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Icehouse’s compliance and action, and allowed us to continue operating without any changes or concerns.
The TABC has been patrolling bars across the state to ensure compliance with COVID-19 regulations. In total, 17 Texas bars have so far had their license suspended.
