When Arizona allowed some bars, gyms and other businesses to reopen last week, the health department set up a hotline and an online form for the public to report safety concerns. More than 1,200 calls have come in since the COVID-19 Compliance Hotline went live last Thursday.
Arizona’s Department of Health Services says law enforcement and public health officials are keeping watch to make sure reopened businesses are limiting occupancy and following other safety measures to slow the spread of the virus. But DHS Director Dr. Cara Christ says the public has to play a role, too.
“We will continue to investigate complaints and respond with enforcement. But this is where we need everybody's help. If you see a business that is not following the requirements, please submit a complaint," Christ said in a news conference.
DHS reports the majority of calls to the hotline — more than 900 — have come from Maricopa County.
Two Scottsdale bars have been asked to close as a result of complaints.
The COVID-19 Compliance Hotline is 1-844-410-2157.
