Gov. Tom Wolf Ordered bars and restaurants to close for the next two weeks beginning Monday in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties to slow the spread of coronavirus. 

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 will be temporarily prohibited, the Wolf administration said. 

“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.”

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

Wolf has strongly urged non-essential businesses in the four counties to close during their county-specific mitigation periods to protect employees, customers, and suppliers and limit the spread of the virus through personal contact and surfaces. 

As of Monday morning there are 63 confirmed cases in Pennsylvania, according to Department of Health data. 

The Department of Community and Economic Development and Department of Health are reaching out to businesses through a letter to provide guidance on the types of businesses that are urged to close, Wolf said.

The letter also provides businesses  financial assistance opportunities are available to mitigate the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Monday is the last full day state liquor and wine stores will be open for business.  

The PLCB plans to continue to operate its e-commerce order center, and Pennsylvania residents can shop for wine and spirits by clicking here to have purchases shipped directly to their homes