Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has ordered Pennsylvania bars and restaurants to shut down dine-in services for two weeks to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
He also urged nonessential businesses to do the same, according to a press release posted on the governor's website.
"Effective at midnight, all nonessential stores are to close in Pennsylvania as well as bars and restaurants except for takeout," Wolf said during a press conference Monday afternoon.
The closures will begin at midnight on Monday and will last at least two weeks, according to Wolf.
However, businesses may continue to serve the public through carry-out, delivery and drive-thru services according to a Governor’s office press release.
The governor's office defines nonessential businesses as those delivering entertainment, hospitality and recreation. Pennsylvanians will still have access to grocery stores, gas stations and medical facilities, as well as other essential services which remain unaffected by the recommendation. However, Wolf strongly recommends nonessential businesses do the same.
"The Wolf Administration is relying on businesses to act now before the governor or the Secretary of Health finds it necessary to compel closures under the law for the interest of public health, including section 7301 of the Emergency Management Services Code," this press release said Monday afternoon.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, there are 76 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state as of Monday at 12:15 p.m. There are five in Cumberland County, while Montgomery County leads the Commonwealth with 30 confirmed cases of the virus.
In a separate announcement, Pennsylvania Turnpike officials said toll plazas will not accept cash or credit payments from travelers. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission will collect tolls by E-ZPass or mailed invoices beginning 8 p.m. Monday night.
Editor's note: This story's headline and content have been modified to better reflect Gov. Wolf's actions. Previously, the story read that Wolf ordered all nonessential businesses to shut down.
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