NY lawmakers to suspend pandemic rule requiring patrons buy food with alcohol

Background: The rule was initially imposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo last summer to make sure customers stayed seated in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus.

• Some bars and restaurants across the state used workarounds to abide by the directive, offering simple and affordable menu items "that would count as 'food' under the governor’s directive," the Times writes.

What's next: "The repeal of the rule would go into effect after passing both legislative chambers in Albany, which could happen this week," The Times writes.