EAST GRAND FORKS, MINN. – A Polk County Judge has ordered the Boardwalk Bar and Grill in East Grand Forks to remain closed to indoor dining under the governor’s Executive Order.
The ruling released Tuesday converts a temporary restraining order previously granted into a temporary injunction that will remain in effect for the duration of the state’s lawsuit.
The legal challenge was filed by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison on December 11th – two days after owners of the Boardwalk opened their doors in defiance of Order 20-99 designed to slow the spread of COVID. That prompted the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to suspend the Boardwalk’s liquor license for 60 days.
In issuing the ruling Judge Anne Rasmusson acknowledged the emotional and financial toll imposed by the order. At the same time, Minnesota law provides the Governor broad authority during peacetime emergencies. Rasmusson goes on to say the Legislature has the authority to terminate the peacetime emergency and has not done so.
In response to the court’s action, Ellison says his office continues to seek voluntary compliance with all establishments and enforcement action is a last resort.
Comments