PRLA and Governor Wolf Announce Restaurant Re-Opening Guidelines
Governor Wolf’s Office and PRLA Join Forces to Safely Re-Open PA Restaurants
Harrisburg, PA (May 27, 2020) The Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA) is pleased to support Governor Wolf’s guidelines for reopening restaurants. The Governor’s office released specific re-opening guidelines this afternoon, which were created in collaboration with the PRLA. Under these guidelines, restaurants in green phase counties will be allowed to open at 50% of posted occupancy indoors, and will be allowed for outdoor dining. Concurrently, restaurants in yellow phase counties will be permitted to allow outdoor dining only.
"We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the Governor's Office on safely reopening Pennsylvania's restaurants," said John Longstreet, PRLA president & CEO. "As the guidelines were developed, the Governor’s office was receptive to our input and industry expertise to create protocols that both protect public and employee safety and allow restaurants to ease back into operations. States around the country have begun allowing restaurants to permit outdoor dining, and as one of the largest industries in Pennsylvania, we are thrilled to welcome these businesses back.”
“While my administration continues to prioritize protecting public health and safety, it's important that our efforts evolve to support Pennsylvania businesses as we successfully continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19," Governor Wolf said. "I appreciate PRLA's insight and support as we developed these guidelines to ensure that restaurants and retail food service businesses may safely offer dining options."
In conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Commerce and Development (DCED), the PRLA will soon be announcing the PA Restaurant Promise, a consumer facing program that will provide both restaurants and guests the necessary tools and information to adhere to safety guidelines.
As dining establishments begin to open, the PRLA will continue to work with the PLCB and local government to advocate for expanded outdoor seating, which will allow restaurants to begin operating at a more standard level. According to the Governor’s mandate, social distancing protocols must continue to be adhered, and any components of operating establishments that have interactive functions (play areas, video arcades, etc.) must remain closed.
The PRLA has been an active resource for the hospitality industry during this challenging time, advocating for the individuals whose employment is at risk. The PRLA is keeping business owners informed of evolving regulations and sharing opportunities for financial relief through local, state and federal programs. In addition to relief efforts, PRLA is promoting takeout and delivery options for local restaurants through CarryOutPA, a state-wide directory of restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries. Businesses can create their listings to help drive traffic for takeout or delivery offerings. The PRLA recently added a section to promote cocktails and restaurants are encouraged update their listings to include cocktails that are available.
About the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
The PRLA strives to promote, protect, and improve the hospitality and tourism industries in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PRLA conveys the unified voice of these industries to the Commonwealth’s citizenry and elected officials.
Media Contact
PRLA: Stephanie Otterson, (717) 963-8369 or [email protected]
Food Shelter PR: Lorraine Gimblett, (215) 254-6601 or [email protected]