South Carolina admits restaurant regulations to slow COVID-19 are not required
As coronavirus continues to spread in South Carolina communities, state health officials admit restaurant regulations are only guidelines, not requirements.
“These are recommendations,” South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control officials said in a statement to The Sun News.
DHEC provides dozens of pages of guidance — developed with the South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association — to restaurants on its website. Recommendations include screening employees before they start their shift, using a face covering to slow COVID-19’s spread and cleaning after an employee tests positive for coronavirus.
“Just like current recommendations for everyone to wear masks in public, avoid group gatherings, and social distance. DHEC’s regulatory authority in regard to retail food establishments is food safety,” DHEC officials stated, while noting the disease is not transmitted through food.
DHEC said last week that restaurants do not have to shut down after an employee tests positive, though some chose to do so.
Several Myrtle Beach area restaurants announced they were closing for cleaning after staff tested positive for coronavirus. Many have reopened since the cleanings. But, social media is filled with confusion on what is required at restaurants and diners to help slow the virus’ spread.
“Because each situation can be different, DHEC continues to be available to assist restaurant owners and workers by addressing their specific questions and concerns and offering guidance that protects both employees and customers,” DHEC officials stated.
Gov. Henry McMaster allowed restaurants to resume dining room service starting in May. In the order, he stated restaurants “should consider” adopting guidelines published by the lodging association.
A State of Emergency order remains in effect in South Carolina and part of that order limits gatherings of more than three people. The provision only applies to situations that impact public health.
At a March 23 news conference, McMaster noted that provision is designed for beach gatherings or spontaneous events. It was not intended for “law-abiding businesses or employers.” Then when speaking about what constitutes a violation, McMaster said, “We know it when we see it.”
The penalty for violating a State of Emergency order is a $100 fine and up to 30 days in jail.
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division spokesman Tommy Crosby said if the agency receives a complaint, agents will investigate. He noted there is officer discretion provided in the state’s law banning gatherings of three or more people.
He added the DHEC regulations are guidance that SLED encourages everyone to follow.
On Tuesday, McMaster and restaurant industry officials unveiled the “Palmetto Priority” sticker program. The voluntary initiative allows restaurants to complete a checklist and an online course to show they comply with guidelines to slow COVID-19’s spread.
If a business completes the program, it receives a sticker to show they are following the guidelines.
“This will be a program that will produce the desired result and it will work,” McMaster said.
This story was originally published June 24, 2020 at 3:36 PM.
