Gov. Andrew Cuomo said there was “significant evidence” restaurants in New York City were violating social distancing policies designed to contain the spread of Covid-19 and threatened to close establishments that don’t follow the rules. 

“There is significant evidence of failure to comply,” especially at restaurants and bars in New York City, Cuomo told reporters on a conference call Thursday. “It’s wrong. It’s dangerous. It’s selfish. It’s unacceptable.”

He said the state will close restaurants after three violations, but egregious violators could face immediate closure. 

“Three violations and you’re closed. We’re also going to post the names of the establishments facing disciplinary charges,” he said.

He said he’s tightening the rules in New York as the state prepares for a second wave of coronavirus infections from states with surging outbreaks in the West and South. 

“Our numbers are good but what we are looking at what we’re dealing with is the potential of a ‘second wave’ from these other states,” Cuomo said. “New Yorkers paid a dear price for Covid and they are equally upset with these violations,” Cuomo said. 

This is a developing story. Please check back later for updates.