Restaurants, Bars In 5 PA Counties Ordered Closed By Governor

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf on Sunday ordered all restaurants and bars in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties to close their dine-in facilities as of Monday. The measure, in place for 14 days, is being taken to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.

"Businesses that offer carry-out, delivery, and drive-through food and beverage service may continue to do so, but eating and drinking inside restaurants and bars is temporarily prohibited," an announcement from the governor said.

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“Ensuring the health and safety of Pennsylvanians is the highest priority as the state grapples with a growing number of confirmed cases of COVID-19, and as the virus continues to spread, it is in the best interest of the public to encourage social distancing by closing restaurants and bars temporarily,” Gov. Wolf said. “I understand that this is disruptive to businesses as well as patrons who just want to enjoy themselves, but in the best interest of individuals and families in the mitigation counties, we must take this step.”

“Social distancing is essential as more Pennsylvanians are testing positive for COVID-19,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “By taking these steps now, we can protect public health and slow the spread of this virus.”

Businesses that do not adhere to this order could face enforcement actions, the governor said.

>>>More coronavirus in Pennsylvania coverage.