The Louisiana State Fire Marshal updated on Friday Phase Two guidelines as they pertain to live entertainment in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
The guidelines now emphasize that indoor live entertainment, which includes but is not limited to bands and karaoke, is NOT ALLOWED in Phase Two. Indoor live entertainment will be permitted, subject to approval, in Phase Three.
In order to be considered to host live entertainment in Phase Three, businesses will have to submit a written request and be approved by the State Fire Marshal's Office.
Disc jockeys or music played via speaker system are permitted, according to the guidelines.
When Phase Two began in Louisiana on June 5, indoor live entertainment was not authorized. Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory sent a letter to AG Jeff Landry, asking for clarification on the guidelines regarding live music indoors.
"I believe the intent of the Governor's restriction on live music is to prohibit mass concerts in large arenas where social distancing cannot be observed. In order to restrict the freedom of individuals to assemble, said restrictions must be in the least restrictive manner and serve a compelling interest. It is my respectful position that prohibiting all live music indoors does not pass such strict scrutiny," Guillory said in his letter.
On June 12, the State Fire Marshal's Office released updated guidance, saying that indoor live entertainment could be considered, but only through a written request.
The update comes just hours after the Fire Marshal's Office said it was working on more aggressive enforcement measures for complaints it receives for businesses that violate Gov. Edwards' orders.
Gov. Edwards extended Phase Two for the state earlier this week, as cases of coronavirus continue to spike.
Read the full updated guidelines for restaurants and nightclubs in Phase Two below.
READ MORE: Mayor-President Guillory asks AG Landry to clarify indoor live music restrictions
Phase 2 guidance changes for live music at bars, restaurants, and other spaces
State Fire Marshal planning more aggressive enforcement for businesses with live entertainment
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