The Cincinnati County’s bar has been closed for virus violations and is allowed to reopen after signing a contract with the state

EL PASO, Texas – More than a month ago, the Rockin ‘Cigar Bar and Grill in El Paso’s Cincinnati Entertainment District was closed for violating Covid-19 occupancy regulations.

Rockin ‘Cigar owner Frank Ricci Jr. told ABC-7 that they are breaking the rules.

“We were out of bounds,” said Ricci. “There was really no excuse for it at the time, but we took full responsibility.”

After serving half of the two-month suspension, they have signed a contract with the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission that will allow them to reopen.

TABC spokesman Chris Porter said they had reached an agreement.

“Since they agreed to the terms of our settlement, we have decided to essentially suspend the remainder of their suspension and allow them to resume operations,” Porter said.

Rockin ‘Cigar has to close at midnight for 30 days, they have to clear the tables 6 feet apart and add a hand sanitizer station near the front door.

“One thing we are telling them is that we will obviously keep an eye on them and further violations will result in the entire lockdown being returned,” Porter said.

TABC is ready to work with any company to make sure the doors stay open.

“We want bars to be able to resume operations and generate income as long as the conditions set by TABC can be met,” Porter said.