KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Jackson County bars and restaurants will now be allowed to serve food and alcohol until midnight under a new health order.
The new order goes into effect Thursday.
While food and drink can be served until midnight, all patrons must leave the facility by 12:30 a.m.
The order only applies to Jackson County jurisdictions outside of Kansas City and Independence. Guidelines within those cities have not changed.
Jackson County bars and restaurants were previously ordered to close by 10 p.m. due to rising COVID-19 cases.
“Let me be clear — our situation has not improved over the past two months. COVID-19 cases are up, our 14-day percent positive remains high as well as hospital capacity,” Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. said in a release. “However, to remain consistent with neighboring jurisdictions, lessen confusion among residents and create fairness for Eastern Jackson County businesses, we have decided to move forward in this manner. It is still dangerous to gather in large groups, so I urge residents to remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent the spread of the virus.”
The Jackson County Health Department still recommends delivery or carryout over dining indoors.
Wyandotte County similarly relaxed restrictions on bars and restaurants there earlier in the week.
Kansas City, Missouri, is expected to announce updated guidelines at noon Wednesday.
