UPDATE: 4 Minnesota bar and grills have liquor licenses suspended for violating COVID restrictions

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division (DPS-AGED) said four bar and grills — one in Lakeville, one in Princeton, one in Merrifield and one in East Grand Forks— are having their liquor licenses suspended for violating COVID-19 restrictions.

Alibi Drinkery, Neighbors on the Rum, Mission Tavern and Boardwalk Bar & Grill intentionally opened and violated Gov. Tim Walz’s Executive Order 20-99, which prohibits on-premises dining, AGED said.

As a result, the businesses’ liquor licenses are being suspended for 60 days, pending a hearing before an administrative law judge. AGED said further violations by the businesses will lead to a five-year suspension of the licenses.

Ellison pledges to hold businesses that defy COVID-19 restrictions accountable

The four were among those named by a coalition, which recently claimed more than 150 businesses were opening in defiance of the governor’s order. However, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said 40% of those businesses listed can already operate legally and aren’t violating the order, and some are anonymous. About 20 others have contacted Ellison’s office to show they are still complying with the law and aren’t open for in-person services. Ellison said his office is still investigating the remaining businesses.

Additionally, AGED said local law enforcement visited several of the businesses on Wednesday and found them to be closed.

"Most bars and restaurants are playing by the rules and following the law. Those that have chosen not to comply are putting the health of the community at risk, and we will hold them accountable," DPS Commissioner John Harrington said.