Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey orders restaurant changes, more to stop coronavirus

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey orders restaurant changes, more to stop coronavirus

We begin with breaking news that will change life as many of us know it.

You're taking a look at downtown huntsville from our waay 31 skytracker.

You can expect to see fewer people after governor ivey issued a statewide public health order.

These are no longer "guidelines."

This has teeth.

The order prohibits gathering of 25 people or more where people can't stay 6 feet away from each other.

It also keeps restaurants and bars from serving food or drinks on property.

It closes all schools.

It closes all beaches!

All elective medical procedures - delayed!

And places strict limits on visitations at hospitals and nursing homes.

I'm dan shaffer.

And i'm najahe sherman.

Our coronavirus team coverage starts in huntsville.

Waay 31's sydney martin spoke with the owners of one huntsville bar minutes after the statewide order was issued.

This parking lot is pretty empty right now.

The owner of the sports page tells me business has been slow this week - ever since the first case of coronavirus was confirmed here in madison county.

As of 5 o'clock tonight - take out or delivery - will be your only options from local restaurants.

The governor's order said no on can consume food or drink on a restaurant's premise until midnight on april 5th.

Today - one of the owner's of sportspage told me he assumed it was only a matter of time before alabama followed other state's lead on not allowing people inside bars and restaurants he said it won't just impact the restaurant employees - but also the bands and performers that rely on area businesses to make money every day.

"we don't know what we're going to do.

We are all terrified.

I think musicians are terrified.

This is a big live music venue.

I think our employees are terrified.

My landlord just came in and said he's going to try to give us a break on our rent next month.

I'm getting all tore up.

Anyway we are going to do what we can.

You know we'll get through it."

Roberts told me he is working with his co-owner to determine take out and delivery services they can provide their customers to keep their business up and running.

Earlier today - local leaders encouraged people to pick a "take-out" day when planning your meals - to support local businesses.

The state health officer said if a business is found violating the health order it could be facing a misdemeanor charge.

I've reached out to local law enforcement agencies throughout madison county to find out how they plan on enforcing this statewide health order.

This afternoon - the madison county sheriff's office told me if it discovers a restaurant or bar is violating the state health order- deputies will contact the local health department.

Live in huntsville sm waay 31 news.

Thanks sydney.

Mayor tommy battle issued a statement following the announcement.

He said quote -- ""this is a challenging time for our communities.

I remain grateful for the way our residents and businesses have been working together to adhere to the public health guidelines and support each other in this time of