More Permanent Regulatory Flexibility Required to Revive Hospitality’s Long-Term Survival

Restaurants and hospitality venues remain closed throughout the U.S. with little guidance on anticipated timelines or re-opening strategies. Beyond the current operational and financial issues plaguing the hospitality industry lies a very difficult reality. There is no “on” switch that will bring our hospitality industry back to service. Long-term success will depend on re-envisioning traditional concepts and strategic development of new operational practices that integrate practical social distancing protocols with more permanent delivery/take-out platforms. However, our legislative system is not flexible enough to pivot with the changing times and needs of the hospitality industry. Any short-term progress must be supported by long-term regulatory changes with attention to a new normal that may mean reduced on-site capacity and stringent illness contamination control policies.

These heightened food safety standards and consumer expectations are sure to continue after reopening…