Ciresi supports Wolf’s call for COVID-19 mitigation efforts

MONTGOMERY, MARCH 17 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, today announced that all Montgomery County residents should distance themselves and heed the guidance of the Department of Health during the state’s COVID-19 disaster declaration.

Governor Tom Wolf has ordered all restaurants and bars to close their dine-in facilities starting today for 14 days to help stop the spread of 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.

“It may seem like a large step to take, but a global pandemic and state emergency such as this requires us to be the most vigilant,” Ciresi said. “If we take these larger measures seriously, we can prevent the spread of this virus and be done with it quicker. If you are a younger and more able-bodied person, please take this opportunity to check in on your older or less abled neighbors. Check the Pennsylvania Health Department website for updates on what you can do to stay safe. Take care of yourselves and try your best to isolate during this time.”

Businesses that do not adhere to this order could face enforcement actions.

If you face a shortage of hours or displacement due to coronavirus concerns, check our state unemployment compensation website to see if you qualify.

The administration has strongly urged that all non-essential businesses close during their mitigation periods to protect employees, customers, and suppliers and limit the spread of the virus through personal contact and surfaces.

The Department of Community and Economic Development and DOH are reaching out to businesses through a letter to provide guidance on the types of businesses that are urged to close. The letter also indicates to businesses that financial assistance opportunities are available to mitigate the financial impact of closures.

For more information, reach out to Ciresi’s district office at 484-200-8265 or email at repciresi@pahouse.net. Visit pahouse.com/ciresi for continuous updates.