Governor Delays Enforcement of Closure Order

On Thursday, March 19, 2020, Governor Wolf issued an Order pursuant to his disaster emergency powers, directing the immediate closure of all businesses that are not life sustaining.  Enforcement of the Order was scheduled to begin on Saturday, March 21, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.

Following the issuance of the Order, the Wolf Administration created a process for businesses to request waivers from the closure mandate.  Due to the high volume of waiver requests received, the Administration is delaying enforcement of the Order, which will now begin on Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8:00 a.m.  The amended Order delaying enforcement is available here.

In addition to delaying enforcement, the Administration has also issued a revised list of life sustaining businesses.  The list was updated to conform with guidance issued by the Department of Homeland Security concerning Essential Critical Infrastructures.  The Administration has also issued a FAQ addressing questions about the Order. 

Requesting a Waiver

The Administration created an online waiver application for non-life-sustaining businesses to request an exemption from the closure Order.  According to the Administration, waiver requests will be reviewed by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), and a response will be issued via email.  Businesses applying for a waiver must remain closed until a decision is made about their application. 

Businesses that are considering a waiver request are encouraged to contact BCGL prior to submitting their request. 

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