Despite push-back the Curfew remains in place

Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez reminds constituents of the severity of the virus and how the curfew plays an important role

To prevent further spread of Covid- 19, Miami- Dade had issued amendment 3 to Emergency Order 27-20, which installed a curfew in the County that would be effective every day. The curfew mandated that constituents should not use streets or sidewalks for any purpose between 12 am until 6 am. While some did not take offense to the new restrictions, Tootsie’s adult entertainment company challenged the amendment. This happened after the strip club received a citation for being in operation during the curfew hours. Tootsie’s proceeded with legal action that linked erotic dancing to the First Constitutional Amendment of Freedom of Speech. 

On Friday, October 16, 2020, Miami- Dade Circuit Court Judge Beatrice Butchko ruled in favor of a temporary injunction that would prevent Miami-Dade from enforcing the curfew. Miami- Dade responded with an appeal to this decision, hoping to regain the ability to enforce the curfew that they believe will slow the spread of Covid-19. 

Just three days after their initial decision, the court granted Miami- Dade’s motion for expedited review of their appeal to the injunction that prevented enforcement of the curfew. In doing so, the court reversed the previous ruling and gave Miami-Dade County the ability to enforce the controversial curfew as early as October 10. Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez has announced that he plans to discuss the matter with the White House medical experts and the County’s public health experts to get their input.  

Mayor Gimenez wants constituents to remain sensitive to the condition of the pandemic. Covid-19 is still relevant and continues to spread in South Florida. He urges individuals to avoid large social gatherings to prevent an increase in the rate that the virus is propagating. A peak in these numbers could highly overwhelm the capacity of hospitals to provide appropriate care and treatment to all patients. Gimenez also reminds constituents that “facial coverings, social distancing, and rules that govern public health protocols will continue to be enforced in the County.”

Health-care officials are predicting that cases will surge in the mid- November period. For this reason, Mayor Gimenez is asking constituents to remain especially alert and in compliance with the recommendations set in place. Now, the curfew running from 12 am until 6 am is included. 

“I am asking our residents and business owners to keep your guard up and diligently follow the County’s safety rules to protect our community during this pandemic. Please, continue to do your part to save lives.”

Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez