By Paul Bois
Hours after the Wisconsin state Supreme Court struck down the governor’s extended stay-at-home order, patrons flooded the bars to celebrate in ways they have not celebrated in nearly two months.
According to Fox News, some bars, such as Nick’s Bar in Platteville, reported a full house within 45 minutes of the Supreme Court’s ruling; all young people, none of whom wore masks or practiced “social distancing.”
“Live video showed guests standing and sitting close to one another around the bar while dancing, drinking and singing to music. The establishment wrote that it was serving at least two dozen people within an hour of reopening,” reported Fox News.
“The Iron Hog Saloon in the Town of Port Washington had reopened its doors by 3 p.m. Wednesday, WISN reported,” the report later added. “Owner Chad Ardnt said he’s upped cleaning protocols and decided to reopen given his nine employees have not received a paycheck in months. Video filmed by the station from inside the bar showed customers were not wearing face masks.”
Immediately after the ruling, the Tavern League of Wisconsin, a trade organization of about 5,000 members, announced that establishments can immediately open while asking that businesses follow safety guidelines in accordance with the local municipalities.
“The Court’s decision takes effect immediately, meaning that – at the state level – Order #28 is unenforceable and there are no longer requirements that people remain in their homes, or restrictions on nonessential travel or business operations including restaurants and taverns,” the Tavern League said. “Our lawyers are reviewing the ability of local municipalities or counties to pass their own Safe at Home Orders. For the time being, Licensees should know they may face fines for opening in violation of a local order. For that reason, it is important to consider any local orders and consult with the municipality issuing their license. The following is from the Wisconsin Counties Association which states it is unclear whether locals have the authority to pass Safe at Home Orders.”
The court’s decision did allow room for local municipalities to institute their own ordinances that were immediately passed following the ruling.