Pennsylvania’s Governor has issued new orders aimed at slowing or reversing recent increases in cases of COVID-19.
Among the mitigation efforts announced by Governor Tom Wolf are a maximum of 25% occupancy for indoor dining for bars and restaurants including staff. Alcohol can only be served for on-premises consumption when in the same transaction as a meal. Takeout and delivery sales are still permitted as is non-bar seating in outdoor areas.
While outdoor events and gatherings still permit up to 250 people, indoor gatherings and events are now limited to a maximum of 25 people. Businesses must conduct operations using as much telework as possible and comply with the business safety order. All gyms and fitness facilities can continue indoor operations but must follow all masking and social distancing requirements as well as prioritize outdoor activities.
These new orders will take effect on Thursday with enforcement tools to include fines or forced business closure. Wolf blamed the case increases on some Pennsylvanians ignoring mask wearing and social distancing requirements as well as out of state travel and a lack of national coordination.
