Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine imposed new mitigation measures for Pennsylvania as the number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise. The new orders took effect at midnight, Thursday, July 16.

The new restrictions reduce indoor dining from 50% capacity to 25%. Indoor gatherings are limited to 25 persons or less and outdoor gatherings up to 250 people or less. Where possible, businesses are required to conduct their operations remotely through teleworking or comply with all required safety protocols, including wearing of masks.

“That means no more than 25 people should gather indoors and no more than 250 outdoors at our churches, but always with social distancing and careful cleaning protocols,” said Bishop Peggy Johnson. “These are best practices; and while churches may be exempt from the governor’s rules, I still think we follow these guidelines as best we can. This is a deadly virus. Our older people are the most vulnerable. I prefer to err on the side of caution always.”  

As of Wednesday, Pennsylvania recorded 994 additional positive cases of COVID-19 bringing the total confirmed cases statewide to 97,665. Th state peaked in early April with nearly 2,000 new cases in a single day. Wolf said in a tweet, “If we don’t act now, medical experts are projecting that this new surge in cases could soon eclipse the peak in April.” Learn more…