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Temporary restraining order issued to prevent Oklahoma bars closing at 11 p.m.

Posted at 8:09 PM, Dec 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-18 23:57:25-05

TULSA, Okla. — An Oklahoma County judge issued a temporary restraining order on Gov. Kevin Stitt’s executive order to prevent bars from closing at 11 p.m.

Oklahoma bars can stay open until 2 a.m. through Dec. 30, 2020, according to court documents.

In November, Gov. Stitt announced new protocols to help limit the spread of COVID-19, which included all bars and restaurants closing at 11 p.m., except for curbside and drive through windows.

READ MORE: Gov. Stitt announces new actions to help limit the spread of COVID-19 in the state

Stitt released a statement expressing his dismay with the ruling:

I am disappointed in today's ruling, because my first priority as governor is to protect the health and lives of all Oklahomans. Many other states have closed bars completely and banned indoor dining while my Executive Order maintains the right balance between protecting public health and keeping businesses open safely. We look forward to making our case at the hearing on Dec. 30.

A hearing on the executive order is set to take place Dec. 30 at 9 a.m.

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