NEWS & INSIGHTS

Pennsylvania closure of all non-life-sustaining businesses

The below information is current as of the publication date listed. Because COVID-19 response measures on all fronts are continually evolving, clients should stay alert to new developments and consult with counsel on any critical questions.

Gov. Tom Wolf signed an order that requires all Pennsylvania businesses that are non-life-sustaining close by 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. The order and the list of businesses can be found by following the links below.

The order provided that enforcement actions will be taken under the order beginning tonight for dine-in facilities, and Saturday, March 21 for other non-life-sustaining businesses. Companies and organizations with virtual or telework (“work from home”) operations that allow social distancing are permitted. Businesses that fail to comply with the order may face citations, fines or license suspensions.

The order leaves significant questions as to what operations are covered and what is permitted. Saxton & Stump’s team of attorneys is giving the situation immediate attention and will provide additional information as it becomes available. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Saxton & Stump attorney, or complete a contact us form, with these or any other questions you may have.

Should you have immediate questions regarding the application of the order, our Labor and Employment response team is available now.

Businesses seeking guidance directly from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) can also contact its customer service resource account at ra-dcedcs@pa.gov or by calling 1-877-PA-HEALTH and selecting option 1.