Archived Announcements

This is a collection of the briefing updates and guidance from government officials we've collected since the start of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. 
Last updated: November 23 at 5:47 p.m.

November 19

• The City of Philadelphia released its official order for the "Safer At Home" restrictions announced on Monday. These restrictions take effect at 5 p.m. on Friday, November 20, 2020, go until January 1, 2021, and could be extended or amended. FULL ANNOUNCEMENT | OFFICIAL ORDER
• Yesterday, Allegheny County Health Secretary Dr. Bogen issued a stay-at-home advisory. It's not an official order and, therefore, not enforced. READ MORE
• The PLCB yesterday voted to also extend the 2021 license renewal fee waiver to manufacturing licensees, as well as reiterated that it will issue a refund to licensees who paid their 2021 fees. They also announced that licensees will be required to put licenses back in safekeeping if they close for more than 15 days, but there will be no safekeeping fee. Further, if a licensee pulls the license out of safekeeping within 90 days there will be no additional inspections or processes needed. REVISED ADVISORY NOTICE NO. 27
• In addition to the live stream, a number of press outlets covered yesterday's rally at the Capitol. PennLive, Fox43, WPXI, and ABC27. 
• Despite the pleas of our industry and others, Republican leaders in the Pa. House have put forth a plan to use all $1.3 billion in remaining CARES Act funding to pay for the state budget. READ MORE
• The Associated Press today reported that the number of Americans seeking unemployment aid rose last week for the first time in over a month. In addition, unemployment benefits for many will end the day after Christmas. READ MORE
• The National Restaurant Association is hosting a webinar on Monday, Nov. 23 to analyze the recent elections and lame-duck session, as well as preview what is to come as President-elect Biden assumes office and Congress kicks off its 2021-2022 session. Register for one of the three time slots: 10-10:45 AM | 2:15-3 PM | 3:15-4 PM
• PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY

November 18

• We thank those of you who attended today's rally in person and in spirit. Representatives from the industry spoke passionately about the impact of these mitigation tactics on their businesses and employees, as well as the financial relief that is necessary to survive the upcoming winter months. Legislators from the Senate and House joined us to voice their support and encourage our persistence in fighting for our industry. Senate Republicans live-streamed the rally and you can watch the recording on-demand here.
• Save Philly Restaurants launched a petition to urge local officials to take swift action to help the industry and its workforce in light of the most recent restrictions. SIGN PETITION  
• PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY
• AHLA today released the results from its latest Front Desk Feedback survey on the hotel's financial outlook and staffing. The topline finding is that 71% of hotels won't survive another 6 months without further government COVID relief. RESULTS
• The National Restaurant Association reported that restaurant sales declined in October, the first time monthly sales have declined since the end of the spring lockdown. It is a troubling sign for the industry as the month likely included some of the last opportunities for outdoor dining. READ MORE
• Toast released its newest COVID-19 playbooks for restaurant operators. This one is all about increasing restaurant sales through online ordering, takeout, and delivery channels. MORE INFO

November 17

• Today, Sec. of Health Levine issued an update to strengthen the masking order, as well as a new order on traveler testing.
  • Masks must be indoors and outdoors when away from your home. Outdoor masking is required if you cannot maintain at least 6 feet distance between someone not from your household. Indoor masking is required at all facilities.
  • With the mandatory COVID testing 72 hours before entering PA, PRLA has requested clarification to determine whether this places any further burdens or requirements on hotels.
  • PRESS RELEASE | MASK ORDER FAQS |  TRAVEL ORDER FAQS
• If case counts, hospitalizations, and percent positivity rates continue rising, the Secretary said additional targeted mitigation will be necessary. As our neighboring states cease indoor dining, not taking today's announcement seriously could lead to this outcome in Pennsylvania. 
• The National Restaurant Association is pushing back against these recent indoor dining shutdowns, citing a lack of evidence of a systemic outbreak of COVID-19 in a restaurant following its Safe Operating Guidance and local guidelines. Today, it sent letters to the US Conference of Mayors and National Governors Association expressing concerns with these types of knee-jerk reactions and their impact on the industry. 
• 2021 PLCB Licensee Renewals Update: Licensees in District 1 and District 2 should not renew their licenses for 2021 at this time. The PLCB has not updated its system to ensure the appropriate fees are waived and it does not expect the system to be updated until mid-December. If you proceed with your renewal at this time, you will be charged for the renewal and have to wait several weeks for a refund.
• Philadelphia's Department of Labor has posted regulations for emergency paid sick leave. These regulations apply to businesses that are not covered by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). 
• PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY
• We look forward to seeing many of you at the Harrisburg Industry Rally tomorrow at 2 p.m. Details are here. Please remember masks are required for this event.

November 16

• Philadelphia officials today announced new "Safer at Home" restrictions in response to rising COVID-19 cases in the city. These restrictions are effective Nov. 20, 2020, through Jan. 1, 2021, with the ability to extend or add restrictions. Please read the full announcement here. Items of note include the following:
  • Indoor dining at restaurants and other foodservice businesses is prohibited.
  • All indoor gatherings and events involving people from more than one household are prohibited, in public or private spaces. This includes private events like weddings, showers, and funerals. 
  • Outdoor gatherings and events are limited to 10 percent maximum capacity or 10 people per 1,000 square feet, not to exceed 2,000. Masks are required at all times and neither food nor beverages may be served.
  • Restaurants with outdoor dining must reduce table sizes to four people and should be household members only.
  • PRLA issued this statement in response to today's announcement in Philadelphia. 
• Today, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced stricter restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee today announced that restaurants and bars must shut down indoor dining until at least Dec. 14. And, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last night issued an order closing indoor dining, among other activities, for 3 weeks. READ MORE 
• Meanwhile in Pennsylvania, Gov. Wolf and Secretary Levine released the dashboard update that showed cases at 26,000+ and a percent positivity of 9.6% statewide. Also of note is that only 16% of the individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 responded to the contact tracing investigators.
• Congressman Mike Doyle (D, Allegheny) is unable to attend the PRLA's rally on Wednesday but he sent this letter to our membership to express his support for the industry. 

​November 13

• If you receive music licensing renewals that are for the full rate, please contact the customer service line on your invoice. The music licensing companies are negotiating these rates on a case-by-case basis since businesses have been operating at reduced capacity for the last 8 months.
• Pa. House Democrats yesterday elected their leadership for the next legislative session. The results are as follows:
  • Minority Leader: Rep. Joanna McClinton (Philadelphia), replaced Rep. Frank Dermody (Allegheny) who lost his seat
  • Minority Whip: Rep. Jordan Harris (Philadelphia), re-elected
  • Minority Appropriations Chair: Rep. Matt Bradford (Montgomery), re-elected
  • Minority Caucus Chair: Rep. Dan Miller (Allegheny)
  • Minority Caucus Secretary: Rep. Tina Davis (Bucks)
  • Minority Caucus Administrator: Rep. Mike Schlossberg (Lehigh), re-elected
  • Minority Policy Chairman: Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (Erie), re-elected
• Pennsylvania surpassed 5,500 additional COVID-19 cases today, a new daily high that far exceeds what the Commonwealth experienced in the spring. The City of Philadelphia is expected to announce additional mitigation measures on Monday, November 16. You can watch the press briefing live here.
• In response to surging case counts, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot yesterday issued a stay-at-home order for 30 days and starts on Monday, Nov. 16. READ MORE
• Allegheny County this summer created a COVID-19 response team to investigate restaurants and bars to ensure they follow the proper COVID-19 safety rules and regulations. WPXI investigator Rick Earle wanted to know more about this team, who they are, their qualifications, and what they’re paid. He submitted a right-to-know request through Allegheny County to obtain that information. READ MORE​

​November 12

• This morning, the National Restaurant Association issued its response to the Stanford/Northwestern study that was published in Nature, which claims that restaurants, gyms, and hotels are high risk for superspreader events. 
• Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today ramped up mask rules, urged Ohioans to take the virus seriously, and threatened to close restaurants and bars if cases continue to rise. READ MORE
• During today's press conference, Pa. Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said there were no plans at this time for additional mitigation measures. Pennsylvania surpassed 5,000 additional COVID-19 cases today, a new daily high that far exceeds what the Commonwealth experienced in the spring.
• Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed legislation that will extend the outdoor seating and street closures to December 31, 2021. The current legislation was set to expire on December 31, 2020. The mayor is expected to sign the bills.
• Senate Republicans today held leadership elections with the following results:
  • President Pro-Tempore: Sen. Jake Corman (Centre), replaced retired Sen. Joe Scarnati
  • Majority Leader: Sen. Kim Ward (Westmoreland), replacing Sen. Corman
  • Appropriations Chairman: Sen. Pat Browne (Lehigh), re-elected
  • Majority Whip: Sen. John Gordner (Columbia),  re-elected
  • Majority Caucus Chairman: Sen. Bob Mensch (Montgomery), re-elected
  • Majority Caucus Secretary: Sen. Ryan Aument (Lancaster), re-elected
• Today is the last day to complete the AHLA's latest Front Desk Feedback survey on the impact of COVID-19 on your staffing and business operations. TAKE SURVEY

November 11

• New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo today ordered restaurants and bars to cease dine-in services by 10 p.m. In addition, the governor said people will also be barred from hosting private gatherings with more than 10 people. READ MORE
• Yesterday, a Stanford/Northwestern study was published in Nature that claims that restaurants, gyms, and hotels are high risk for superspreader events. The National Restaurant Association's food safety team is examining the study, including how it was conducted and what the data means. At first glance, the study is based on probability and covers a timeframe when all Pennsylvania restaurants were closed for dine-in service.  
• Missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova? You can watch it on-demand at your convenience by clicking here.
• Pa. House Democrats are scheduled to hold their leadership elections tomorrow. Minority Leader Rep. Frank Dermody last night conceded his race to Republican challenger Carrie Lewis DelRosso, which means a leadership shakeup tomorrow.
• Pa. Treasurer Joe Torsella has conceded his reelection bid against Republican Stacy Garrity. Torsella announced his decision in a video Tuesday evening despite no official declaration of a winner by the Associated Press. READ MORE
• The health department isn't the only one who's looking out for food safety in your restaurant. Customers are paying heightened attention to cleanliness & compliance with safety protocols amid COVID-19. Register for an upcoming ServSafe class with PRLA partner HRFoodSafe. 
• ICYMI: The fall issue of PA Restaurant & Lodging Matters was released electronically last week. This issue features part 2 of the two-part series on what will become the industry's new normal. READ MORE
• Thank you to those who have served, and those who continue to serve.

November 10

• If you weren't able to join us yesterday for our Virtual Annual Conference, you can watch the sessions on-demand. These session archives will be available to anyone until the end of November, after which they will be available for members only. 
  • State of the Industry with Chip Rogers & Tom Bene | WATCH
  • Road Ahead: A Panel Discussion | WATCH
• Philadelphia City Council’s Commerce & Economic Development Committee unanimously amended and reported out Bill #200574. The bill would ban evictions and late fees & penalties to be assessed on restaurants that have a commercial lease in the City of Philadelphia immediately upon enactment and one year following the conclusion of the emergency declaration. Restaurants with 3 locations or less, have less than 100 employees per location and have lost more then 50% of revenue due to COVID would be eligible for these protections. The now moves on to the full Council for consideration.
• Congress has indicated a willingness to consider a COVID package during lame duck and we need your help to show the need for hotel industry relief. AHLA is surveying hotel operators to aid with our advocacy efforts. TAKE SURVEY
• Cases are increasing in Philadelphia; however, the City hasn’t announced any further restrictions on businesses at this time. Today, Health Commissioner Dr. Farley stated that most cases are coming from private gatherings. READ MORE
• Republican legislators today held a press conference calling for a bipartisan, legislative-led audit of the 2020 election. READ MORE
• PRLA is seeking individuals to join one of our committees in 2021. Committees set the direction of the association in government affairs, education and training, and member services. The deadline to respond is November 16. Please note that the number of openings are limited and indicating interest does not guarantee placement. 
• Today, House Republicans held leadership elections. Results are as follows:
  • Speaker of the House: Rep. Bryan Cutler (Lancaster), re-elected 
  • Majority Leader: Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (Centre), re-elected 
  • Majority Caucus Whip: Rep. Donner Oberlander (Clarion), re-elected
  • Appropriations Chairman: Rep. Stan Saylor (York), re-elected
  • Majority Caucus Administrator: Rep. Kurt Masser (Northumberland), re-elected 
  • Majority Caucus Chair: Rep. Mike Reese (Westmoreland), replaced retiring Rep. Marcy Toepel (Montgomery) 
  • Majority Caucus Secretary: Rep. Martina White (Philadelphia), defeated Rep. Jerry Knowles (Schuylkill) and Rep. Jon Fritz (Wayne) 
  • Policy Committee Chair: Rep. Martin Causer (McKean), defeated Rep. Greg Rothman (Cumberland)
• ICYMI: The Pennsylvania Conference for Women takes place November 11. This one-day online event features several keynote speakers, including Viola Davis, Chef Dzung Lewis, and multiple breakout sessions. MORE INFO/REGISTER

November 9

• With 6,300 cases in the last two days, Pa. Health Secretary Dr. Levine stated during her morning press conference that at this time, Pennsylvania will continue to enforce the current mitigation standards that are in place. PRESS RELEASE
• Due to rising cases in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy today announced additional restrictions including a 10 p.m. curfew for all indoor service at bars and restaurants and a ban on interstate sports up to the high school level. READ MORE
• Philadelphia Public Health Recommendations Following Election Protests and Celebrations: The Department of Public Health recommends that anyone who has been around a large crowd of people recently quarantine for 14 days. This means that they should stay away from others who are not in their household and, if they absolutely have to be around others, give plenty of distance and wear a mask the entire time. Additionally, they should seek out COVID-19 testing seven days after the last day they were around a large crowd. 
• Pa. ballots are still being counted and finalized.
  • Row Offices:
    • Incumbent Josh Shapiro has been projected to win the Attorney General race.
    • Republican Timothy DeFoor defeated Democrat Nina Ahmad in the race for Auditor General.
    • The Treasurer race is still too close to call but last reports had Republican challenger Stacy Garrity with a slim lead over incumbent Joe Torsella.
  • PA Senate:
    • Senate Republicans may pick up one seat, despite losing Sen. Killion's (R, Delaware) seat in southeastern PA. The Republicans will have a majority of either 28 or 29 to Democrat's 21/20,with one Independent.
  • PA House:
    • House Republicans are projected to pick up three seats, extending their majority to 112-91.
• ICYMI: The Pennsylvania Conference for Women takes place November 11. This one-day online event features several keynote speakers, including Viola Davis, Chef Dzung Lewis, and multiple breakout sessions. MORE INFO/REGISTER

November 6

• Pennsylvania elections results are not official, as mail-in ballots are still being counted across the Commonwealth. Visit VotesPA.com to find accurate results.
• Final reminder: All PRLA members are invited to attend the virtual Annual Meeting of the Membership on Monday, November 9 at 11:30 a.m. Held in conjunction with the PRLA Annual Meeting, the purpose is to elect the 2021 board of directors. REGISTER
• The Pennsylvania Conference for Women takes place November 11. This one-day online event features several keynote speakers, including Viola Davis, Chef Dzung Lewis, and multiple breakout sessions. MORE INFO/REGISTER

November 5

• Pennsylvania elections results are not official, as mail-in ballots are still being counted across the Commonwealth. Visit VotesPA.com to find accurate results.
• If you accidentally paid your 2021 license renewal fees and these fees were eligible to be waived, the PLCB has stated that it will reimburse you. If you are not reimbursed within 2 weeks, please reach out to PRLA for assistance. 
• Philadelphia Approved Weekend Street Closures for Outdoor Dining (November 5-8): In June, the City launched four new options for restaurants to operate outdoor dining in order to earn much needed revenue. These new options aim to support businesses during the city’s green phase of reopening from the COVID-19 pandemic. To see this weekend’s approved street closures, view this blog. Vehicular traffic should avoid these streets. 
• All PRLA members are invited to attend the virtual Annual Meeting of the Membership on Monday, November 9 at 11:30 a.m. Held in conjunction with the PRLA Annual Meeting, the purpose is to elect the 2021 board of directors. REGISTER
• Leadership expert, Meredith Elliott Powell, breaks down how to overcome 4 common mistakes to lead effectively during times of uncertainty. Leadership is the single most crucial factor in determining your ability to emerge successful in any challenge. READ MORE
• The Pennsylvania Conference for Women takes place November 11. This one-day online event features several keynote speakers, including Viola Davis, Chef Dzung Lewis, and multiple breakout sessions. MORE INFO/REGISTER
• The Delaware Restaurant Association's second annual Women of Hospitality Conference is going virtual, November 9-12. Despite COVID-19, there's still an opportunity for us to come together to engage and inspire our present and future women leaders of hospitality MORE INFO/REGISTER

November 4

• Pennsylvania elections results are not official, as mail-in ballots are still being counted across the Commonwealth. Visit VotesPA.com to find accurate results.
• Missed today's Industry Update? Watch it on-demand here.
• ICYMI: Resources for what to do if an employee tests positive for COVID-19.
  • Pennsylvania Guidance for Businesses (Handling Cases of COVID section) 
  • National Restaurant Association Restaurant Law Center guidance if an employee tests positive (download pdf)
• Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Matters, Fall 2020 issue, is now available. This issue features part 2 of the two-part series on what will become the industry's new normal. READ MORE
• Philadelphia will be releasing the body camera footage and the 911 calls from the day Walter Wallace Jr. was killed at 5:30/6 p.m. today. There is potential for a curfew to be issued.

November 3

• Today is Election Day. Polls close at 8 p.m. Tune into the Industry Update with Melissa Bova tomorrow at 11 a.m. for analysis and insights on the early results. REGISTER
• PRLA is teaming up with ServSafe Dining Commitment to promote the Pennsylvania Restaurant Promise and ServSafe Dining Commitment to the public via ServSafeDining.org. You can sign on at www.prla.org/welcomeback.html. Please note: if you have already submitted your information to download the PA Restaurant Promise, you do not need to take action. 
• The National Urban League and PepsiCo joined forces to create the Black Restaurant Accelerator, which will boost approximately 500 Black-owned businesses over the next five years. The PepsiCo Foundation is providing a $10 million grant to fund the program, which will provide current and aspiring Black restaurateurs with access to capital, training, mentorship and other support services that are necessary for business success. Applications will begin being accepted in 2021.
• In part five of a six-part series exploring the ghost kitchen market, Restaurant Dive takes a look at a DC ghost food hall to give a glimpse of the concept post-pandemic. READ MORE 
• Coronavirus study in Germany gives hope to concert-goers. German scientist tested several possible venue set-ups and analyzed virus transmission outcomes. While the findings need to be peer-reviewed and replicated, researchers are cautiously optimistic with the results. READ MORE

November 2

• The PLCB announced that all Licensee Services Centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 14 through Dec. 27 to offer additional hours of operation during the holiday season. 
• PRLA's Annual Meeting is one week away. Join us on November 9 for complimentary sessions and hear from keynote speakers Tom Bené and Chip Rogers, as well as our panel of experts discussing the road ahead. MORE INFO
• A PPP factsheet for borrowers that provides a high-level overview of what they have to do as part of the PPP Forgiveness process has been developed for SBA field offices and SBA Resource Partners. Additionally, the Federal Reserve Board adjusted the terms of the Main Street Lending program to better help small businesses. 
• ATTN: Delaware County Businesses: The Delaware County Department of Intercommunity Health is sponsoring a free, drive-thru flu shot clinic for all residents of Delaware County. MORE INFO to share with your staff.
• As consumers are more hyper-aware of sanitation and safety practices, touchless tech becomes important for restaurant operators to consider. READ MORE
• Tomorrow is Election Day -- get out and vote! 

October 30

• Philadelphia officials announced they will impose a curfew tonight from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Saturday. The National Guard has been deployed to Philadelphia by Gov. Wolf. During the curfew, grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies are only allowed to be open for delivery service. If businesses choose to remain open in this capacity, the city said buildings should be secure to protect on-site and delivery employees. The updated order will be posted here. 
• PRLA prepared a template letter for business operators to give to their essential workers in the early days of the pandemic. RESTAURANT LETTER |  HOTEL LETTER
• The National Restaurant Association released 10 tips for operating your business during a pandemic. MORE INFO
• This L.A. Times feature highlights four small business operators and how they adapted to the pandemic to stay in business. READ MORE
• PRLA's Annual Meeting on November 9 is free and open to anyone in the industry. Register to hear from keynote speakers Tom Bene and Chip Rogers, as well as our panel of experts discussing the road ahead. MORE INFO
• ICYMI: PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. The deadline for nominations is October 31. LEARN MORE ​​

October 29

• Mayor Jim Kenney announced on Twitter that there will not be a city-wide curfew in Philadelphia tonight but encouraged all residents to stay inside and limit travel. 
• With coronavirus cases surging in some European counties, officials in France and Germany today announced new lockdowns on businesses, including restaurants. READ MORE
• Two restaurants initiated a potential class-action lawsuit against GrubHub for being added to its site without permission. READ MORE 
• With the election just 5 days away, Gov. Wolf and Secretary of State Kathy Brockvar urged voters to immediately hand-deliver mail ballots to their county election office, drop box, or other designated location, as well as reiterated the safety procedures in place for in-person voting. READ MORE
• PRLA's Annual Meeting on November 9 is free and open to anyone in the industry. Register to hear from keynote speakers Tom Bene and Chip Rogers, as well as our panel of experts discussing the road ahead. MORE INFO
• ICYMI: PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. The deadline for nominations is October 31. LEARN MORE 

October 28

• This afternoon, the City of Philadelphia has declared a state of emergency and issued a curfew, effective from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Additionally, all retail businesses (including restaurants) are to close operations by 8 p.m. tonight. READ ORDER
• Today, the PLCB voted in favor of waiving 2021 license renewal fees.
  • You must renew your license in 2021 but the renewal fees will not be collected (except for Wine Expanded Permits--the 2% renewal fee must still be paid in 2021).
  • If you do not renew your license by your renewal date, late fees will still be assessed.
  • All other operational fees not related to renewal (e.g., change in ownership/manager) will be collected.
  • Safe-keeping renewals will continue to be waived at this time.
  • READ NOTICE
• The Pa. Department of Labor & Industry has filed an emergency regulation that will allow unemployment claimants to receive claims backdated up to 52 weeks. This is to address all of the claims that have been filed but the system didn’t process and pay out and claims that weren’t filed but were eligible.
• The Pa. 30 Day Fund is seeking restaurants and businesses in the following counties to apply for its grant program: Armstrong, Cameron, Carbon, Elk, Franklin, Greene, Lawrence, Montour, and Pike. MORE INFO 
• The husband of Rep. Rosemary Brown (R, Monroe & Pike counties) tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week. As such, the immediate Brown family is in quarantine. READ MORE
• Yesterday, Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker announced the suspension of indoor dining in Chicago, effective Friday, Oct. 30, due to the spike in cases in the city. READ MORE
• PRLA created a toolkit to assist you with engaging with your elected officials prior to Tuesday's election. MORE INFO​

October 27

• The National Restaurant Association recently reported restaurant job growth has slowed significantly in recent months. As a result, eating and drinking place employment still remained 2.3 million jobs below February’s pre-coronavirus peak. On the state level, job-losers outnumbered job-gainers by a wide margin in September. While Pennsylvania added jobs in August and September, our restaurant employment was still down more than 20% compared to pre-coronavirus levels. 
• The National Restaurant Association established the Reopening Marketplace, which is a suite of products and services specialized for members operating and reopening amidst the pandemic. MORE INFO
• The City of Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Farley discussed rising cases and percent positivity in the city and said that while no new mitigation is going into effect today but that could change in the future. PRESS RELEASE
• The City of Philadelphia also reminded operators of several resources available to them:
  • Take Out Dining Support: Requests for temporary loading zones are being reviewed | APPLY/INFO
  • New Business Recovery Payment Agreements: Businesses in compliance can sign up for payment agreement for their taxes | ELIGIBILTY VIDEO / AGREEMENT INFO
  • How to File for a Refund of U&O Taxes: Instructions from the Department of Revenue on how to request a Use & Occupancy Tax Refund due to COVID | INFO

October 26

• All PRLA members are invited to attend the virtual Annual Meeting of the Membership on Monday, November 9 at 11:45 a.m. Held in conjunction with the PRLA Annual Meeting, the purpose is to elect the 2021 board of directors and officers. REGISTER
• ICYMI on Friday: The PRLA Annual Meeting will be 100% virtual on November 9 and complimentary for the industry. Keynote speakers include Tom Bene, president of the National Restaurant Association, and Chip Rogers, president & CEO of AHLA, as well as a panel discussion on industry recovery and the road ahead. Panelists are experts from the restaurant and hotel sector. MORE INFO/REGISTER
• PRLA also is seeking individuals to join one of our committees in 2021. Committees set the direction of the association in government affairs, education and training, and member services. The deadline to respond is November 16. Please note that the number of openings are limited and indicating interest does not guarantee placement. 
• Sean Kennedy, EVP of government affairs at the National Restaurant Association, gives the 90-second rundown of what's happening at the federal level. WATCH
• The Hill today published an op-ed by U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and U.S. Rep. Ed Case (D-Hawaii) requesting a coordinated federal response to help save the tourism and travel industry. READ MORE
• At today's press conference, Dr. Rachel Levine discussed increasing case counts, percent positivity, and hospitalizations. PRESS RELEASE
• Despite rising case counts, fewer Pennsylvanians are responding to contact tracers inquiries. READ MORE
• Internationally, many European nations are also seeing increasing case counts leading to more lockdowns. READ MORE

October 23

• The Pennsylvania Conference for Women, in an initiative with PRLA, recently announced the recipients of the grants for Pennsylvania women-owned restaurants. READ MORE
• Join PRLA on November 9 for our 100% virtual Annual Meeting. We pleased to announce this year's event is complimentary for the industry and features keynote speakers Tom Bene, president of the National Restaurant Association, and Chip Rogers, president & CEO of AHLA, as well as a panel discussion on industry recovery and the road ahead. Panelists include experts from the restaurant and hotel sector. MORE INFO/REGISTER
• PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. The deadline for nominations is October 31. LEARN MORE 
• NYC bars and restaurants can now start charging patrons a COVID surcharge of up to 10 percent. READ MORE
• Disney considers a coronavirus-related lawsuit to force California's theme parks to open. READ MORE
• Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant donates Philly Special IPA sales to the Reading Terminal Market. READ MORE

​PRLA's Statement on Today's Press Conference
PRLA has been advocating for a number of industry "lifelines" since March 19. It's unfortunate that the Administration is only now, nearly 8 months later, taking our requests seriously. While our industry desperately needs support, these olive branches will not sustain businesses that are still reeling from closures, shrinking revenue, and well-intended but ineffective mitigation efforts unnecessarily targeting restaurant operators. For example, the $20 million in licensee fee waivers only accounts for 2021 fees, does not provide relief for 2020 fees, and only amounts to about $1,500 per licensee, which doesn't compensate for the daily losses in revenue licensees are facing under the current orders. The PRLA has asked for federal and state funding packages. However, those only help if the industry is returned to the safe and rational operating guidelines from pre-July 15, which HB 2513 would have accomplished, and the majority of the legislature has recognized. A true lifeline for the industry would have been permitting HB 2513 to become law. If the restaurant industry is the backbone of Pennsylvania’s economy, then our Governor needs to understand our backs are broken.
-John Longstreet, President & CEO
​
October 22

• This afternoon, Gov. Wolf held a press conference to announce that he will be asking the PLCB to waive licensee renewal fees for 2021, among other 'lifelines' for the industry. PRESS RELEASE
• PRLA issued a statement in response to the press conference pointing out that the industry asked for these 'lifelines' nearly 8 months ago. READ STATEMENT
• ICYMI: We issued social media graphics and messaging for the HB 2513 override vote. Please remember that 24 Democratic representatives stood with the industry on that vote so sending mass emails to the entire Democratic caucus is inappropriate. Instead, please thank the following Ds who stood firm in their support of our industry either via email or on social media:
  • Reps. Bizarro, Burns, Carroll, Conklin, Delloso, Harkins, Kim, Kortz, Kosierowski, Kulik, Longietti, Markosek, Matzie, McNeill, Merksi, Mullery, Mullins, O'Mara, Petrarca, Readshaw, Sainato, Sappey, Snyder, and Ullman
    • Thank You Graphic for social media (download) | [Rep Name-tagged], thank you for standing with the industry by voting to override the veto on HB 2513. Your support will not go unnoticed. 
  • The following 12 Ds flipped their votes (supported HB 2513 in September but voted to sustain the veto in October): Reps. Ciresi, Tina Davis, Deasy, Driscoll, Hill-Evans, Flynn, Galloway, Kirkland, Malagari, Solomon, Wheatley, Zabel
    • "No" Vote Graphic for social media (download) | [Rep Name-tagged], the industry will not forget where you stood when it came time to support our businesses and employees' livelihoods. We will continue to fight for the safe, sensible reopening of restaurants, and to protect the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.
• In Philadelphia, Councilman Bobby Henon introduced legislation that would provide eviction and late fee protection to restaurants impacted by the COVID crisis. 

October 21

• Last night, the House failed to override the Governor's veto of HB 2513. Read PRLA's statement. 
• Similarly to our Action Alert for HB 2513, PRLA has created graphics for you to use on your social channels to thank those representatives who stood with the industry, especially those who reached across the aisle, and call out those who flipped their vote.
  • Thank You Graphic (download) | [Rep Name-tagged], thank you for standing with the industry by voting to override the veto on HB 2513. Your support will not go unnoticed. 
  • "No" Vote Graphic (download) | [Rep Name-tagged], the industry will not forget where you stood when it came time to support our businesses and employees' livelihoods. We will continue to fight for the safe, sensible reopening of restaurants, and to protect the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.
• On this morning's Industry Update webinar with Melissa Bova, she detailed what happened last night and what comes next. WATCH NOW
• The PLCB issued updated guidance for licensees in all counties. This update deals extensively with the October 6 order on discrete indoor and outdoor events.
• The National Restaurant Association today released updated re-opening guidelines, now called COVID-19 Safe Operating Guidance. The Guidance continues to focus on food safety, cleaning and sanitizing, employee health monitoring and personal hygiene, and social distancing. Each section includes a list of actionable items an operation should consider as it evaluates its safety procedures. DOWNLOAD 

October 20

• The House is considering a veto override on HB 2513 at the end of session today. Please keep up with your legislative contact using PRLA's HB 2513 Action Alert page. Your outreach is more important than ever for HB 2513. We'll post the outcome on our social channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and issue a special edition of the Update when the vote occurs.
• The outcome of the veto override will be discussed on tomorrow's 11 a.m. Industry Update webinar with Melissa Bova. REGISTER
• Restaurant employment still 2.3 million below pre-coronavirus levels. READ MORE
• What to do if your employee tests positive for COVID-19 can be found on the state's general business guidance.
• The PA Chamber is hosting a free hour-long virtual program to showcase Pennsylvania’s road to economic recovery, forecast what businesses can expect in the year ahead, and provide exclusive insight into the 2020 General Election from state and federal perspectives. MORE INFO
• ICYMI: Businesses who received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under $50,000 can now access a new forgiveness application designed to simplify the forgiveness and loan review process, as announced by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This “streamlined” PPP forgiveness form does not require businesses to show the calculations used to determine their loan forgiveness amount. However, SBA may request information and documents to review those calculations as part of its loan review process. INSTRUCTIONS | APPLICATION

​
October 19

• We don't anticipate a veto override to take place today. We will update you on social if one is scheduled for tomorrow. Please keep up with your legislative contact using PRLA's HB 2513 Action Alert page. Your outreach is more important than ever for HB 2513.
• During this afternoon's press conference, the Governor and Secretary of Health presented data on case counts, hospitalization, testing, and contact tracing. PRESS RELEASE
  • Contact Tracing: Of the 8,580 positive cases in the survey period, 2,280 people generally responded to the tracing survey and 484 said yes that they visited a business. 
    • 243 said they went to a restaurant (3% of positive cases)
    • 424 said they went to a ‘mass gathering’ (5% of cases)
• Join AHLA on two webinars this week. The first, on Thursday, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m., will be their government affairs team analyzing the chances of Congress passing additional coronavirus relief. The second, on Friday, Oct. 23 at 1 p.m., features a live discussion with Frank Luntz, renowned public opinion researcher and communications expert. 
• Last week, Senate Majority Leader McConnell announced that the Senate would be voting on a coronavirus relief package crafted by Republicans on Wednesday. READ MORE
• Today is the last day to register to vote in Pennsylvania. MORE INFO

October 16: PRLA Statement on Gov. Wolf's veto of HB 2513
This afternoon Governor Wolf vetoed HB 2513, which will have long-lasting and negative impact on the hospitality industry. Despite the communication from the governor’s office, HB2513 does not allow restaurants at full capacity, but allows restaurants to operate at 50% capacity. HB 2513 was passed with broad bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature and is vitally important to the restaurant, lodging, and event industries’ long-term survival. As the voice of these industries representing nearly 30,000 businesses and 700,000 employees across the Commonwealth, the PRLA has repeatedly asked the Wolf Administration to listen to struggling business owners and employees who want nothing more than to earn a living and protect their guests, employees, and families. The Administration has repeatedly rebuked requests for a return to the reasonable, well researched, and common-sense standards that were in effect before July 15.
 
As colder weather approaches and outdoor dining becomes less attractive, the Governor’s veto of HB 2513 and the new, illogical private event standards will produce more losers than winners and are an affront to the hospitality industry. The PRLA appreciates the continued support from the 36 Democrats in the House and 14 in the Senate who reached across the aisle on behalf of businesses and hospitality workers in their districts. 

As we start to see COVID-19 cases rise across the state, we implore Governor Wolf and Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine to educate residents on the greater dangers of hosting small gatherings in their homes, which ignore mask wearing and social distancing protocols, instead of placing further restrictions and undue burdens on the struggling restaurant industry.
-John Longstreet, PRLA President & CEO

October 16

• As expected, Gov. Wolf this afternoon vetoed HB 2513. PRLA issued a statement in response. House leadership earlier this week announced their intention to hold a veto override on Monday, Oct. 19. In the meantime, your time to act is now! PRLA issued an ACTION ALERT on Tuesday to thank the 36 Democratic representatives who voted in favor of HB 2513 and ask them for their continued support. The HB 2513 Action Alert page has been updated to include messages and graphics for social media. 
  • Graphic 1, Graphic 2, Graphic 3 
  • Sample Message: [Rep. Name handle tagged], thank you for standing with restaurants by voting in favor of HB 2513 in September. We're counting on your continued support.
  • Social media handles for those representatives spreadsheet
• Yesterday, Philadelphia city officials hosted a webinar to answer restaurant operators' questions on the Winterization Guidelines. 
• Today, legislation that would extend the outdoor seating expansion in Philadelphia to Dec. 31, 2021, was voted out of Committee unanimously. 
• The BLCE issued updated guidance regarding bar service for ALL venues: 
  • May alcohol be served at bars under any circumstance? 
    Seating at the bar is still not allowed; however, patrons can order a drink or food from the bar or counter but must immediately return to their seats to consume on site (and a meal must still accompany the purchase of alcohol for on-site consumption). 
• The health department isn't the only one who's looking out for food safety in your restaurant. Customers are paying heightened attention to cleanliness & compliance with safety protocols amid COVID-19. Register for an upcoming ServSafe class with PRLA partner HRFoodSafe. 
• ICYMI: The PA 30 Day Fund provided more than 600 Pa. small businesses with $3,000 forgivable loans/grants. It is currently seeking applicants from the following counties: Armstrong, Cameron, Carbon, Columbia, Elk, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Lawrence, Mercer, Montour, Perry, Pike, Snyder, Tioga, and Union. MORE INFO/APPLY
• The National Restaurant Association and the U.S. Conference of Mayors is hosting a joint town hall for restaurateurs and mayors from around the country on Monday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m. to discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing and what mayors can do to help restaurants survive the pandemic and the years ahead. You are invited and encouraged to invite your mayor, too. REGISTER​

October 15

• We expect the Governor to veto HB 2513 sometime tomorrow. In the meantime, your time to act is now! PRLA issued an ACTION ALERT on Tuesday to thank the 36 Democratic representatives who voted in favor of HB 2513 and ask them for their continued support. The HB 2513 Action Alert page has been updated to include messages and graphics for social media. 
  • Graphic 1, Graphic 2, Graphic 3 
  • Sample Message: [Rep. Name handle tagged], thank you for standing with restaurants by voting in favor of HB 2513 in September. We're counting on your continued support.
  • Social media handles for those representatives spreadsheet
• ICYMI: The PA 30 Day Fund provided more than 600 Pa. small businesses with $3,000 forgivable loans/grants. It is currently seeking applicants from the following counties: Armstrong, Cameron, Carbon, Columbia, Elk, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Lawrence, Mercer, Montour, Perry, Pike, Snyder, Tioga, and Union. MORE INFO/APPLY
• A new AHLA survey found that 89 percent of registered voters agree that Congress should remain in session until reaching an agreement on an economic stimulus package. READ MORE
• The Philadelphia Parking Authority is providing discounted parking to restaurant patrons as part of its Park. Eat. Love. campaign, which runs from now through Nov. 30. Restaurant patrons can park in one of the 6 PPA garages after 5 p.m. for up to 4 hours at a flat rate of $7. LEARN MORE
• Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6th) sent a letter to the Small Business Administration flagging the concerns she has with the recent changes to PPP forgiveness as it pertains to rent forgiveness for family owned businesses. We thank the Congresswoman for her support on this issue. READ LETTER
• Don't forget that on Monday, October 19 at 3 p.m., the National Restaurant Association and the U.S. Conference of Mayors is hosting a joint town hall for restaurateurs and mayors from around the country to discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing and what mayors can do to help restaurants survive the pandemic and the years ahead. You are invited and encouraged to invite your mayor, too. REGISTER
• Yesterday we shared a Sample COVID Inspection Form from the Department of Agriculture. Please note, that while the form says 25/250 for event gatherings, the rule remains the new formula, found at PA DOH Targeted Mitigation FAQs. 
• World Central Kitchen and its partners are activating Chefs For The Polls to serve nourishing meals on early voting days and Election Day. WCK be stationed by polling locations around the country, targeting those with historically long lines, predicted massive turnouts, or limited facilities, sharing meals with anyone – no questions asked. LEARN MORE

October 14

• If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch the webinar on-demand here. One item discussed today was the COVID inspections at establishments. The Department of Agriculture informed us that last week, their inspectors are issuing two inspections forms at an establishment's annual inspection: 1) the standard food safety inspection form and 2) a COVID inspection specific to the mitigation.
  • Sample COVID Inspection Form
• Also discussed was the ACTION ALERT PRLA issued yesterday. ICYMI: Outreach to thank the 36 Democratic representatives who voted in favor of HB 2513 and ask them for their continued support. The HB 2513 Action Alert page has been updated to include messages and graphics for social media. 
  • Graphic 1, Graphic 2, Graphic 3 
  • Sample Message: [Rep. Name handle tagged], thank you for standing with restaurants by voting in favor of HB 2513 in September. We're counting on your continued support.
  • Social media handles for those representatives spreadsheet
• Tomorrow (Oct. 15), Philadelphia operators are invited to join PRLA on a webinar with city officials at 3:30 p.m. The goal of the session is to ensure that you clearly understand the city's Winterization Guidelines, as well as give you an opportunity to convey your challenges, discuss industry best practices during this time, and more. The format will be a review of the City regulations followed by an open Q+A. There is no advanced registration. CLICK HERE TO LAUNCH WEBINAR
• The PA 30 Day Fund provided more than 600 Pa. small businesses with $3,000 forgivable loans/grants. It is currently seeking applicants from the following counties: Armstrong, Cameron, Carbon, Columbia, Elk, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Lawrence, Mercer, Montour, Perry, Pike, Snyder, Tioga, and Union. MORE INFO/APPLY
• The forgiveness for PPP loans under $50,000 is not “automatic PPP loan forgiveness,” as borrowers are still required to submit documentation to lenders on payroll costs, rent/lease payments, and utilities. INSTRUCTIONS | APPLICATION
• On Monday, October 19 at 3 p.m., the National Restaurant Association and the U.S. Conference of Mayors is hosting a joint town hall for restaurateurs and mayors from around the country to discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing and what mayors can do to help restaurants survive the pandemic and the years ahead. You are invited and encouraged to invite your mayor, too. REGISTER

October 13

• ACTION ALERT: Outreach to thank the 36 Democratic representatives who voted in favor of HB 2513 and ask them for their continued support. The HB 2513 Action Alert page has been updated to include messages and graphics for social media. 
  • Graphic 1, Graphic 2, Graphic 3 
  • Sample Message: [Rep. Name handle tagged], thank you for standing with restaurants by voting in favor of HB 2513 in September. We're counting on your continued support.
  • Social media handles for those representatives spreadsheet
• Philadelphia today announced its private event guidance. Indoor events are restricted to 10 percent of capacity, up to 250 people maximum no matter the size of the venue. This will be more restrictive than 25 people for a lot of restaurants. Outdoor events align with the state's guidance. MORE INFO
• Join PRLA on Thursday, Oct. 15 at 3:30 p.m. for a webinar with Philadelphia city officials, "Winterization Q&A for Philadelphia Operators." The goal of the session is to ensure that you clearly understand the city's Winterization Guidelines, as well as give you an opportunity to convey your challenges, discuss industry best practices during this time, and more. The format will be a review of the City regulations followed by an open Q+A. REGISTER
• Today, Gov. Wolf announced improvements to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency's COVID Relief Mortgage and Rental Assistance Grant Program. The changes take effect on October 17 and are for residential renters and homeowners. MORE INFO
• AAHOA invites you to join their virtual regional conferences and trade show. MORE INFO
• Today is Amazon Prime Day. Don't forget to use Amazon Smile and choose the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Foundation Inc. as your preferred charity. It's an easy way to support our scholarship fund for Pennsylvania culinary & hospitality students. 

October 12

• Allegheny County and others are bracing for what could be a budget-wrecking spike in property assessment appeals by hotels, shopping centers and other commercial property owners ravaged by COVID-19 — a situation that could cost towns and school districts already hit hard by the pandemic even more tax revenue. READ MORE
• October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. As such, the National Restaurant Association has released three articles covering the basics to data protection: 
  • Intro to Digital Security 101: How to protect your restaurant's data | READ
  • Digital Security Part 1: Identifying your risk | READ
  • Digital Security Part 2: Protecting your data | READ
• ICYMI: Tomorrow kicks off the PRLA's virtual Tourism Summit. Tuesday features a keynote address and break out sessions on social media and email marketing. MORE INFO/REGISTER 

October 9

• The state's new guidelines for events take effect today. The Department of Health has updated the FAQ page. 
  • For outdoor events with seating or gatherings under unenclosed tents, must the occupancy be calculated based upon the tent area only? No.  Event organizers may calculate capacity based upon the total space dedicated to each event, whether covered under a tent or open to the air.  For example, if there is a tent for an outdoor wedding, event organizers are not limited by just the occupancy of the tent but all of facility space dedicated to that event. Attendees must, however, adhere to appropriate social distancing measures, which may limit seating under tents or within other similar areas. 
  • The administration further clarified that there will be no exceptions to the indoor space formula. So if the new calculation brings your event number below 25—the new lower number is what you have to use. 
• HB 2513 is a critical piece of legislation for the restaurant and events industries, which is why we are calling on you to take action today. Visit or HB 2513 Action Page for the bill breakdown, talking points, and legislator contact information. 
• The Commonwealth IT department issued a statement that the outage that impacted multiple agencies, including PLCB and its LOOP system, has been resolved. To facilitate licensee business and pickup of Special Orders, the PLCB is extending hours of operation at all 13 Licensee Service Centers across the state on Friday and opening them on Saturday as follows: 
  • Friday, October 9, all LSCs will extend operating hours until 8 p.m. 
  • Saturday, October 10, all LSCs will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 
• Restaurants who received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under $50,000 can now access a new forgiveness application designed to simplify the forgiveness and loan review process, as announced by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This “streamlined” PPP forgiveness form does not require businesses to show the calculations used to determine their loan forgiveness amount. However, SBA may request information and documents to review those calculations as part of its loan review process. FORM INSTRUCTIONS  |  FORM 3508S APPLICATION

October 8

• HB 2513 is a critical piece of legislation for the restaurant and events industries, which is why we are calling on you to take action today. Visit or HB 2513 Action Page for the bill breakdown, talking points, and legislator contact information. 
• Allegheny County today announced that it will stay in alignment with the state's guidelines for events. READ MORE
• The state's new guidelines for events takes effect tomorrow, October 9. 
• Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced today that Texas bars can reopen next week at 50% if counties opt in. READ MORE

October 7

• Today's Industry Update covered numerous topics related to yesterday's announcement of new event gathering limits. Important links from that conversation include the following items:
  • COVID Re-opening Occupancy Guidance (calculate business occupancy) 
  • DOH Targeted Mitigation FAQs (key updates below, further updates expected tomorrow, Oct. 8)
    • Breweries, distilleries, wineries may offer up to 5 1-ounce tasting pours without a meal purchase
    • Walk-up bar service at an event where a meal is served is allowed if guests immediately return to their seat
    • For a tent to be considered outdoor dining, 2 or more sides need to be open
    • For restaurants hosting private events at the same time as regular meal service:
      • The total number of persons attending all the discrete events at the restaurant (i.e., a private event or general seating), may not exceed 50% of the restaurant's total maximum occupancy. If a restaurant has not self-certified, it may not exceed 25% total occupancy.
      • Example, a restaurant that has completed the self-certification with a private room (capacity 100) may host a bridal shower that involves 20 people at the same time it is serving brunch, as long as the total number of persons attending the shower plus the total number of persons attending  brunch does not exceed 50% of the entire building capacity at any one time.
  • PRLA's HB 2513 Landing Page (talking points, legislator contact information) 
• Mission Taqueria has organized a coalition of Philadelphia restaurants to help incentivize its loyal fans to be poll workers, by providing them a free meal delivered to them at their polling place on election day. Learn more about FUEL THE POLLS
• PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. LEARN MORE 

PRLA Statement on October 6 Amended Gathering Order
"Gov. Wolf and Secretary of Health Dr. Levine amended safety guidelines for indoor and outdoor events today. Again, the administration missed the mark by creating a cumbersome and illogical calculator to determine the capacity for indoor and outdoor events. These new mandates further victimize the struggling event industry. In fact, the amended guidelines demonstrate a lack of understanding of how the catering, event planning, and venue industries operate. The new limitations are overly confusing, place an unnecessary burden on venue operators, and would not seem to have any effect on safety when social distancing and face masking protocols are observed.  Moreover, for a 100-person venue, the new guidelines of 20% occupancy reduce the number of people allowed and contradict previous mandates that currently exist. For example, if a venue has a maximum capacity of 10,001 they are limited to 1,001. Yet, if a competing venue has a capacity of just two less individuals, 9,999, they can host more than 400 more people.  How does this make any sense in any way?

Today’s announcement illustrates how vitally important HB 2513 is to the long-term survival of the restaurant and event industry. It restores the industry to the reasonable, well researched, and commonsense standards that were in effect before July 15. HB 2513 and its logical approach to returning events and restaurants to 50% occupancy combined with social distancing that had broad bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature truly moves the needle in a safe and meaningful way for the industry.

While the Governor’s new guidelines create winners and losers, those on the losing end far outnumber those who benefit from these changes."

October 6

• Today, Gov. Wolf amended the gathering limits for indoor and outdoor events, which will now use a "maximum occupancy calculator" to determine capacity. PRESS RELEASE  |  ORDER
• Philadelphia officials said that it will make an announcement on any changes regarding event size in the City next week.
• As we mentioned in our statement, HB 2513 is the best hope the industry has to return to 50% occupancy for restaurants and events, eliminate the meal requirement, and resume bar seating. The bill is officially on the Governor's desk and the 10-day clock for his action is ticking. He has until October 21 to make a decision.
  • You can call the Governor’s Office and urge him to sign the bill:717-787-2500.
  • You can reach out to your representatives and urge them to stand with the industry by supporting a veto override (if it comes to that). Contact info, vote roll call, and talking points are here.
  • Join us on tomorrow's Industry Update webinar at 11 a.m. REGISTER
• Pa. Auditor General Eugene DePasquale has been investigating the business shutdown waiver program. The audit, which is ongoing, has uncovered significant problems that created an uneven playing field for businesses across Pennsylvania. READ MORE
• The PLCB updated guidelines regarding tastings at wineries and breweries: Any licensee of the LCB that is otherwise permitted to dispense samples of alcoholic beverages may dispense up to 5 (1oz) samples, without remuneration, regardless of whether a meal is served. 
• Yesterday, we reported that the LOOP outage was expected to be fixed in about 24 hours; however, we received word later that the outage will extend through this week. LOOP and Special Orders will be unavailable for at least the rest of this week.
• Nationally, President Trump today said he has called off stimulus bill negotiations with the Democrats until after the election. READ MORE
• AHLA and a coalition of private and public sector businesses are urging Congress to act on COVID relief before they recess. 

October 5

• Today, the Pa. Senate returned to session and signed HB 2513. The bill now heads to the Governor's desk for action. Gov. Wolf has said on multiple occasions that he will veto the bill. He has 10 days to act. In the meantime, we encourage you to reach out to the Democratic representatives who voted in favor of HB 2513 and urge them to continue to stand with the industry should a veto override be necessary. MORE INFO
• If you have increased your restaurant occupancy to 50% but haven't yet self-certified, today is the deadline to do so. If you do not self-certify, then your occupancy remains at 25%. SELF-CERTIFY LINK
• On Sunday, Commonwealth IT systems issues impacting multiple agencies are currently prohibiting LOOP orders from being submitted. The timeline to fix the outage looks like it will take another 24 hours. 
• Today, the Pa. Senate Law & Justice Committee moved two bills out of committee:
  • HB 763 (O’Neal—R, Washington): Permits clubs to sell up to 192 ounces of malt and brewed beverages for off-premise consumption. 
  • HB 1617 (Staats—R, Bucks): Allows holders of a Hotel (H) license that was in existence before 1949 and no longer maintain rooms to convert the license to a Restaurant (R) license for $30,000.
• Gov. Wolf today announced that an additional $96 million in state grants have been approved for 5,373 Pennsylvania small businesses that were impacted by the business closure order due to the COVID-19 public health crisis. READ MORE
• Sen. Pat Toomey today announced that he will not seek reelection when his term ends in 2022 nor will he run for governor. He will finish his current term. READ MORE
• The U.S. Supreme Court will not hear a challenge to Gov. Wolf’s order that closed all non-life-sustaining businesses during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Please note: this is not related to the current lawsuit on the gathering limits that has been appealed to the Third Circuit. 
• The Senate Community, Economic, and Recreational Development Policy Committee will hold a hearing tomorrow, Oct. 6, at 10 a.m. on VGTs and games of skill. This is a public hearing and the Committee is not expected to vote on the bill tomorrow. You can stream the hearing live on Tuesday at 10 a.m.
• PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. LEARN MORE 

October 2

• This morning, the White House announced that the President & First Lady have tested positive for COVID-19. READ MORE
• We're pleased to announce that the Hospitality Assistance Response of Pennsylvania (HARP) fund has met its initial fundraising goal! The HARP fund has raised $257,627 for front-line hospitality workers displaced from their jobs by the COVID-19 pandemic and distributed 848 grants. We thank the 30+ businesses and 100+ individuals who supported frontline workers by contributing to the fund. We're working on a second fundraising goal of $80,000 so we can reopen the grant application for another round of relief. DONATE online or text "HARP" to 44-321.
• ICYMI: Philadelphia COVID-19 Pandemic Paid Sick Leave is in effect through December 31, 2020. Employers with 500 more employees are required to provide public health emergency paid sick leave for certain reasons connected to COVID-19. Employees not covered by FFCRA may be eligible for up to 112 hours of public health emergency paid sick leave under certain circumstances. MORE INFO | NOTICE POSTER | ELIGIBILITY
• The PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from high school seniors and current post-secondary students for the 2021-22 school year. Since 2006, the PRLAEF Scholarship Program has awarded more than 380 students with more than $345,000 in scholarships. PROGRAM DETAILS
• At today's press conference, Gov. Wolf says modifications possible for crowd size limits at sporting events. READ MORE
• The PA Chamber is holding a free, hour-long virtual program to showcase Pennsylvania's road to economic recovery, forecast what businesses can expect in the year ahead, and provide insight into the 2020 General Election. MORE INFO

October 1

• This afternoon, a federal appeals court temporarily restored restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings. This means that the Administration may once again enforce size limits on gatherings (25 indoor/250 outdoor). READ MORE 
• This announcement illustrates how critical PRLA-endorsed HB 2513 is for the industry. The governor has announced his intent to veto this legislation when it reaches his desk. We encourage you to reach out to Democratic representatives who voted in favor of the bill to urge their continued support when the House attempts to override a veto. HB 2513 talking points, the vote roll call, and legislator contact information is here.
• PRLA President & CEO John Longstreet today testified before the joint House Labor & Industry & Health committees about the impact of the state’s mitigation measures on our industry. READ TESTIMONY
• The Pennsylvania House's session was cancelled today due to a member testing positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing is being completed. READ MORE
• Today, the Pa. Department of Agriculture and Department of Community & Economic Development held a joint press conference to discuss the self-certification process. 
• The Governor is expected to continue with the implementation of the increased salary threshold for exempt employees, scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2021. Beginning October 1, 2021, businesses will need to pay their exempt employees a minimum salary of $40,560. 
• The Philadelphia Parking Authority is providing discounted parking to restaurant patrons as part of its Park. Eat. Love. campaign, which runs from now through Nov. 30. Restaurant patrons can park in one of the 6 PPA garages after 5 p.m. for up to 4 hours at a flat rate of $7. LEARN MORE

September 30

• On this morning's Industry Update webinar, we discussed the next steps for HB 2513 and the outreach you can be doing with Democratic representatives who voted in favor of the bill to urge their continued support when the Governor follows through on with his intent to veto. Watch the recording here. HB 2513 talking points, the vote roll call, and legislator contact information is here.
• PRLA local chapters are seeking motivated individuals to join their boards of directors. Chapter boards are critical in connecting with and promoting the local industry. LEARN MORE 
• ServSafe is offering numerous free training resources for staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics range from COVID-19 precautions for takeout and delivery to conflict de-escalation techniques. In addition, PRLA's ServSafe Manager's Certification classes are taking place in person around the state. 
• The Restaurant Recovery Summit, a one-time event focused on helping restaurants survive and recover from the devastating effects of Covid-19, will go live on Nov. 17. You can register for this complimentary session now (select "Industry Leader Operator"). 
• FSTEC Community is a new platform designed to provide the restaurant industry with foodservice technology solutions and education while bringing the restaurant community together virtually. You can register now (select "Industry Leader Operator") for this complimentary virtual event now, with speakers and sessions starting in late October.
• AHLA sent a letter to congressional leaders urging their swift action in passing a recovery package. 

September 29

• This afternoon, Philadelphia city officials announced that the city will allow restaurants to expand indoor dining to 50% capacity effective Friday, October 2. if they self-certify. In addition to CDC and state guidelines, including self-certification, Philadelphia restaurants also must abide by city rules:
  • tables must have four or fewer seats for household members only
  • no bar seating
  • no alcohol service except during meals
  • servers must wear masks and face shields
  • improved ventilation
• Bucks County officials have announced that events may operate at 50% capacity, with social distancing and mask wearing. READ MORE
• Yesterday, the National Restaurant Association sent a letter to the US Conference of Mayors discussing the importance of outdoor dining and encouraging local leaders to take steps to extend the outdoor dining season for as long as possible. The Association is currently putting together a video with testimonials from operators and employees about the importance of outdoor dining to their establishments. SUBMIT A TESTIMONIAL
• AHLA today released its latest industry impact analysis. This report illustrates the dire situation the hotel industry is facing without an additional relief package from Congress. ACTION ALERT
• Yesterday, House Democrats on Monday introduced a revised version of the HEROES Act, a $2.2 trillion coronavirus relief package that includes $120 billion in grants for restaurants, bars and food trucks. The National Restaurant Association today released its full technical assessment of the proposal and issued a press release. 
• ICYMI: The IRS is reminding anyone who collected unemployment compensation in 2020 that UC payments are taxable. READ MORE
• The Payroll Support Program that helped airlines keep employees on payroll and with health insurance runs out on Thursday. READ MORE

September 28

• Self-certification: How to determine your occupancy if you don't have a stated fire code occupancy:
  • Based on the International Building Code, section 1004, and assuming that the floor plans and exit routes meet the requirements of the code. 
  • The occupancy hinges on your building's means of egress. 
  • 1004.1.2 Areas without fixed seating:
    • Refer to Table: 1004.1.2 Maximum Floor Area Allowances per Occupant 
    • Unconcentrated (Tables & Chairs), Occupant Load Factor = Floor Area in Square Feet per Occupant = 15 Net  (so, 1000 sq ft / 15 net = 66 people or 33 at 50%) 
  • 1004.2 Increased Occupant Loads 
    • The occupant load permitted in any building, or portion thereof, is permitted to be increased from that number established in TABLE 1004.1.2 provided that all other requirements of the code are met based on the increased number and the occupant load does not exceed 1 person per seven square feet of occupiable floor space.  Where required by a building official, an approved aisle, seating, or fixed equipment diagram substantiating any increase in occupant load shall be submitted.  Where required by the building official, such diagram shall be posted. 
  • 1004.4 Fixed Seating: 
    • The occupant load seating of booths shall be based on one person per 24 inches (610mm) of booth seat length measured at the backrest of the seating booth. 
• The National Restaurant Association has submitted comments to the Small Business Administration urging them to reverse a recent decision that forbids PPP loans from being used to pay rent on a building that the holder of the loan may have ownership in.
• These are challenging times. Yet so many hotel employees are rising to the challenge. Who has inspired you? Nominate those who have inspired you for the AHLA's Stars of the Industry award. MORE INFO
• CDC's recent moves have the restaurant industry scratching its head. The National Restaurant Association is among the parties awaiting clarification, especially on air circulation and filtration. READ MORE​​

September 25

• The Allegheny County Health Department confirmed today that the county will align with state restaurant guidance and will continue to enforce the gathering limits of 25 indoor/250 outdoor. 
• The Pa. Department of Labor provided guidance to determine building occupancy for self-certification. If you have completed the self-certification form but need to make changes, contact covidselfcert@pa.gov.
• We've received numerous questions about the "unsworn falsification to authorities" statement on the self-certification document. For example, "If I self-certify, and something happens outside of my control (e.g., an employee's mask slips below their nose), can I be charged with a felony for "unsworn falsification to authorities?" 
  • Section 4904, which applies to many commonwealth documents and processes (everything from filing a worker's compensation claim or purchasing a fishing license to registering a boat), only affects knowingly false statements made with "intent to mislead a public servant in performing his official function." As such, mere non-compliance with the guidance or mask orders would NOT be an offense under 4904.
• For our readers who are tourism professionals, the virtual Tourism Summit takes place on October 13 & 14. LEARN MORE

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September 24

• The Allegheny County Health Department today announced that it will be lifting the county-specific mitigation standards and aligning with the state guidance. This means that the 11 p.m. “hard stop” on food and beverage in Allegheny County will now align with the state guidance of “last call” being at 11 p.m. (but kitchens may remain open past 11 p.m.). It is our understanding that the County will still be enforcing the 25/250 limitations on indoor/outdoor gatherings but we are looking for clarification on that front. 
• While HB 2513 was passed by the House yesterday, the bill still needs to be signed by the Senate before it can go to the Governor for action. The Senate is not scheduled for session until October 5, unless they decide to return sooner for a non-voting session. 
• During today's press conference, Gov. Wolf discussed COVID-19 mitigation, government reform, and election reform. He cited the CDC study released earlier this month as a reason to continue stringent mitigation strategies on restaurants, despite experts from the National Restaurant Association refuting the study's methodology.  
• The Pa. Department of Labor today provided additional information to employers about “relief from charges” relating to unemployment compensation claims. DOWNLOAD
• House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abruptly shifted course Thursday and moved to assemble a new and smaller coronavirus relief bill to form the basis for renewed talks with the White House, amid mounting pressure from moderates in her caucus and increasingly alarming economic news. READ MORE
• Sean Kennedy, National Restaurant Association EVP of Government Affairs, provides a 90-second update on what's happening in Washington D.C.
• ICYMI: The AHLA recently released its Front Desk Feedback results, which found that 2/3 of the nation's hotels could close in six months without further relief. Take action to tell Congress to save hotels today.

September 23

• This afternoon, the House passed HB 2513 by a bipartisan vote of 145-56. View the vote role call to find out how your representative voted. Your outreach to your senators and representatives this week was instrumental in moving this legislation. Thank you! While this is a monumental step in moving the industry forward, our work is not done.
• HB 2513 now goes to the Governor's desk. He has three options: 1) sign into law, 2) veto the bill, or 3) do nothing and allow it to become law without signing. Options 1 or 3 would cause the bill to become law immediately from the date of signing (or at the end of the 10 day period the governor has to sign a bill). The Governor has indicated that he intends to veto the bill. If the bill is vetoed, the Legislature could (and probably would) attempt to override the veto. For an override to be successful, 2/3 of the legislators in both chambers (House and Senate) would have to vote in favor of the override. Stay tuned to the Daily Update for potential action you can take.
• On this morning's Industry Update webinar, we discussed the impact of yesterday's announcement that a federal judge in Pittsburgh denied the state's request to delay enforcement of his ruling that many of Gov. Tom Wolf's pandemic shutdown orders were unconstitutional. Watch the recording here.
• Philadelphia city officials and PRLA have put together this FAQ document to help operators in the city comply with local guidance. 
• The City of Philadelphia has issued a supplemental order regarding special events and large gatherings. The order supplements the Modified Green Phase executive order issued on July 5, 2020, and previous policy statements. It states that the City will not be evaluating applications for special event or demonstration permits through October 22, 2020, and any subsequent renewals of the order. It also states that for outdoor events of 150 people or less, the City’s normal special event or demonstration permitting requirement will not be enforced, but that other permitting requirements may be applicable depending on the nature of the event. Based on current evidence regarding the status of the pandemic in Philadelphia and its unpredictability, the City strongly advises event organizers against planning large events to occur before February 28, 2021. READ MORE
• At today's PLCB board meeting, the board discussed that COVID violations could be considered a reason not to renew a license, but it isn’t absolutely a reason a license wouldn’t be renewed. Guidance is forthcoming.
• ICYMI: The Pennsylvania Conference for Women has partnered with PRLA to distribute $175,000 in grants to women-owned restaurants. MORE INFO | GRANT APPLICATION

September 22

• This afternoon, the Senate passed HB 2513 by a bipartisan vote of 43-6. The bill will now go back to the House for a concurrence vote, which could happen as early as Monday. Your outreach to your senators was instrumental in moving this legislation. Thank you! While this is a monumental step in moving the industry forward, our work is not done. We'll provide information on next steps during tomorrow's Industry Update and in the Daily Update later this week.
  • The six Senators who voted no were: Sen. Farnese, Sen. Haywood, Sen. Hughes, Sen. Leach, Sen. Muth, Sen. Street. 
• A federal judge in Pittsburgh has denied the state's request to delay enforcement of his ruling that many of Gov. Tom Wolf's pandemic shutdown orders were unconstitutional. The Governor confirmed that the state would move ahead with an appeal to the Third Circuit. READ MORE
• Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Farley reminded that the court ruling denying the stay only applies to the state guidelines on congregating. 
• Philadelphia city officials and PRLA have put together this FAQ document to help operators in the city comply with local guidance. 
• In light of the updates to the restaurant guidance that took effect yesterday, the PLCB has revised its guidance for all licensees. READ GUIDANCE
• On tomorrow's Industry Update webinar at 11 a.m., we'll be reviewing in detail the self-certification document, what the Senate's bipartisan vote to pass HB 2513 means for the industry, and the impact of the judge's denial of a stay. REGISTER
• The Pennsylvania Conference for Women has partnered with PRLA to distribute $175,000 in grants to women-owned restaurants. MORE INFO | GRANT APPLICATION
• Morning Consult, a global data intelligence company, has been tracking consumer confidence throughout the pandemic. At the beginning of fall, trend data shows comfort levels are ticking up in areas such as dining out, shopping at a mall, going to the movies, and more. READ MORE

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September 21

• The Senate did not vote on HB 2513 due to concerns by the Republican caucus that the bill did not go far enough to reopen the restaurant industry. HB 2513 in its current form has the support of a number of Democrats and PRLA is working to address the concerns of the Republicans. Stay tuned for an “emergency update” tomorrow morning if we need you to do additional outreach. 
• Today, all restaurants (except those in Philadelphia) can go to 50% occupancy as long as they self-certify by Oct. 5. Also taking effect today is the 11 p.m. last call for alcohol, with it cleared by midnight. Food sales may continue after 11 p.m.
• PRLA will be reviewing in detail the self-certification document on Wednesday's Industry Update. REGISTER
• ICYMI: Allegheny County announced that it will allow restaurants to self-certify with the state to go to 50% capacity. However, other restrictions, such as the 11 p.m. hard stop for indoor dining and the ban on tobacco use, will continue.  
• The National Restaurant Association announced that restaurant employment recovery is in danger of stalling. The restaurant industry added just 133,600 jobs in August, and staffing levels remain nearly 2.5 million jobs below the pre-coronavirus peak. READ MORE
• AHLA released the results of its Front Desk Feedback survey, which found that 74% of hotels will lay off more employees without further aid. FULL RESULTS
• Gov. Wolf vetoed the high school sports attendance bill, setting up possible override vote in General Assembly. READ MORE

September 18

• PRLA released our statement on the Governor's September 21 order. 
• This order does not restore the industry to the standards that were in place prior to July 15, which is why PRLA has issued an Action Alert on HB 2513. The Senate is expected to vote on this bill as early as Monday, Sept. 21. Your outreach this weekend to all state senators will be critical to that vote. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
• Allegheny County announced that it will allow restaurants to self-certify with the state to go to 50% capacity. However, other restrictions, such as the 11 pm hard stop for indoor dining and the ban on tobacco use, will continue.  
• On Monday, Sept. 21, all restaurants (except in Philadelphia) can go to 50 percent occupancy as long as they self-certify by Oct. 5. We suggest you wait to self-certify until we have an opportunity to review the self-certification document. Also taking effect on Monday is 11 p.m. last call (alcohol cleared by midnight) regardless of your occupancy. Food sales may continue past 11 p.m.
• Meanwhile in Texas, Gov. Abbott yesterday announced that restaurants in most parts of the state may return to 75% occupancy on Monday.  READ MORE 
• We know that you are increasingly facing challenges with employee recruitment and retention, so we’re working together with our partners to provide you with more resources to help overcome some of these obstacles. Through our strategic alliance with the National Restaurant Association and UnitedHealth Group we are able to offer health and wellness solutions to your employees. LEARN MORE 

September 17

• Gov. Wolf today issued the order that would allow restaurants to return to 50% capacity if they self-certify. Other key components of the order, which takes effect on September 21, include:
  • Last call will now be 11 p.m. with alcohol cleared by midnight.
  • The meal requirement and bar seating ban remain in place.
  • Private events remain unchanged (25 indoor/250 outdoor).
• This order does not restore the industry to the standards that were in place prior to July 15, which is why PRLA has issued an Action Alert on HB 2513. The Senate is expected to vote on this bill as early as Monday, Sept. 21. Your outreach to all state senators will be critical to that vote. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
• The House Commerce Committee today unanimously voted out HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery), which creates a $250 million grant program for restaurants impacted by COVID and permits training as a permissible use of grant monies. 
• The House Commerce Committee also voted HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette) out of committee after "gutting" to remove events (since we successfully rolled this language into HB 2513) and amending it with sports facilities and performance venues. It passed by a vote of 15-9.
• Gov. Wolf today called on the General Assembly to provide additional funding for the COVID-19 Hazard Pay Program to support front-line workers risking their health to continue working in life-sustaining industries. No word yet on whether restaurant or hotel workers, deemed essential during the shutdown, will now be eligible for this program.
• Sens. Scott Martin (R, Lancaster) and Pat Stefano are drafting legislation that would provide $500 million in grants to the hospitality and tourism industry using CARES Act money. READ MORE
• PENNDOT announced yesterday that it has resumed processing requests for REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards. The federal Department of Homeland Security had extended the deadline for enforcing the use of the card to get through airport security or to enter federal buildings by one year, until Oct. 1, 2021. READ MORE
• With the release of hotel-specific guidance by the CDC, AHLA has updated its Safe Stay infographic, “Housekeeping Frequency During a Safe Stay.”

September 16

• In today's press conference, Gov. Wolf announced that the Attorney General is filing a request for a stay on yesterday's Federal ruling.   
• This morning's Industry Update reviewed the recent court ruling and what it means for you and your business. Watch the recording here.
• Also discussed extensively during today's webinar was the status of HB 2513, and the actions you can take to tell Pa. state senators how important this legislation is to your business. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
• The House Commerce Committee is scheduled to consider two of PRLA’s priority bills tomorrow: 
  • HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery): Creates a $250 million grant program from restaurants impacted by COVID. 
  • HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette): Allows events to operate at 50 percent capacity. (This bill has been incorporated into HB 2513 in the Senate this week, but the Committee is moving it through the process in case we need it in the future.) 
• Last evening, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced that the House would stay in session until it could deliver a COVID-19 rescue pact. READ MORE
• The Big Ten today reversed course and announced that fall football would be played after all. READ MORE

September 15

• Today, Gov. Wolf responded to yesterday's court ruling that aspects of Gov. Wolf's COVID-19 mitigation strategies were unconstitutional, including the temporary business shut down and the limits on individuals congregating. WOLF'S STATEMENT
• Tomorrow's Industry Update webinar will cover the ruling, the response, and what it means to you. Join us at 11 a.m. REGISTER
• The National Restaurant Association released findings from its latest economic impact survey. The findings are stark...roughly 100,000 restaurants have closed, three million jobs still lost, and 40% of operators say they are likely to close if there isn’t federal support in the coming months. NATIONAL RESULTS  |  PA RESULTS
• Congress is scheduled to leave Washington at the end of the month and has stalled on passing an additional relief package. The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to Congressional leaders and is urging you to take action to tell your lawmakers that they need to take action immediately to help the restaurant industry. 
• Data indicates consumer movement to support Black-owned businesses has boosted traffic and sales. READ MORE 
• AMEX is offering eligible small businesses free "Open for Business" kits. Order your free kit here. Learn more about AMEX's Shop Small initiative here.

September 14

• A federal judge today ruled that aspects of Gov. Wolf's COVID-19 mitigation strategies were unconstitutional, including the temporary business shut down and the limits on individuals congregating. The Wolf Administration announced that it would be seeking a stay of the decision and filing an appeal. READ MORE 
• The Pa. Department of Community & Economic Development updated the FAQ document regarding the September 8 order that takes effect next week. 
• Philadelphia city officials today announced that its COVID-19 press conferences will only be held on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. moving forward. READ MORE
• The National Restaurant Association has reported that the restaurant industry is on pace to lose $240 billion in sales this year. Congress is scheduled to leave Washington at the end of the month and has stalled on passing an additional relief package. The Association is urging you to take action to tell your lawmakers that they need to take action immediately to help the restaurant industry. 
• Front Desk Feedback is AHLA's member polling series, created to provide an industry snapshot on how the latest economic and social trends are affecting the management of hotels. TAKE SURVEY
• Pa. sees uptick in coronavirus percent positivity, lists 17 counties as ones to watch, many of which are home to colleges. READ MORE​

September 11

• Philadelphia City Council passed Bill #200303, sponsored by Councilwoman Brooks, by a vote of 16-1. The bill would provide for Emergency Paid Sick Leave to workers not currently covered by the Families First Coronavirus Protection Act (FFCPA). PRLA worked closely with Councilwoman Brooks and other members of Council to amend this legislation to ensure it did not include those already covered by FFCPA and concludes when FFCPA does. 
• The federal $300 unemployment supplement has already come to an end. The federal government announced that funds ran out on Sept. 5. Pennsylvanians collecting unemployment will receive a bulk payment up to that date, but will not receive the supplement moving forward. READ MORE
• The House Commerce Committee is scheduled to consider two of PRLA’s priority bills on Thursday, September 17: 
  • HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery): Creates a $250 million grant program from restaurants impacted by COVID. 
  • HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette): Allows events to operate at 50 percent capacity. (This bill has been incorporated into HB 2513 in the Senate this week, but the Committee is moving it through the process in case we need it in the future.) 
• Yesterday, the CDC released a study on a linkage between COVID-19 and restaurants. The National Restaurant Association issued a statement today in response to the that study.
• As we reported yesterday, the Senate GOP's relief proposal didn't not get enough votes to proceed. Sean Kennedy, EVP of Government Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, breaks down what that means to you.
• #NeverForget

September 10

• Philadelphia today announced that restaurants will not increase to 50 percent capacity on Sept. 21. If counts stay low, the City will consider an increase to 50 percent in October. The city also said it will increase the limit for outdoor gatherings to 150 beginning Monday, Sept. 14. Until then, the limit on indoor gatherings remains at 25. READ MORE
• Today, the Governor called for legislative action to support small businesses by proposing $100 million in forgivable loans and grants for the hospitality, leisure and service industries, including restaurants and bars, salons, and barber shops. READ MORE
• Meanwhile, PRLA-endorsed HB 2615 (Stephens-R, Montgomery), which creates a $250 million grant program for restaurants using CARES Act money, has been referred to the Commerce Committee and awaits action.
• Federally, 52 Senate Republicans voted in support of proceeding to the COVID relief legislation introduced by the Senate GOP earlier this week. All Senate Democrats opposed. Having failed to reach the 60 vote threshold, the bill is effectively dead. The National Restaurant Association released a statement urging bipartisan/bicameral solutions to provide relief to the restaurant industry.
• ServSafe and the National Restaurant Association have added a free, on-demand course covering conflict de-escalation techniques. LEARN MORE
• Courts begin to take action on business interruption claims as more lawsuits are filed. The high profile cases haven't seen their day in court yet but some of the smaller suits are moving. READ MORE
• The CDC today released a study on a linkage between COVID-19 and restaurants. The summary line will get likely get a lot of media play: "Adults with positive SARS-CoV-2 test results were approximately twice as likely to have reported dining at a restaurant than were those with negative SARS-CoV-2 test results." Ben Chapman, a food safety risk expert from NC State, posted a Twitter thread highlighting several areas where the report lacked essential information. 
• A New York federal court judge just struck down critical portions of the Labor Department’s new joint employer rule that went into effect a few months ago. READ MORE

September 9

• If you missed today's Industry Update webinar, you can watch the recording here. 
• HB 2513 received second consideration and was voted out of the Senate Appropriations Committee today by a vote of 20-4. Vote Summary
  • Yes votes: Sens. Schwank (D), Blake (D), Collett (D), Iovino (D), Santarsiero (D), Browne (R), Yaw (R), Corman (R), Scarnati (R), Argall (R), Killion (R), Langerholc (R), Laughlin (R), Martin (R), Mensch (R), Phillips Hill (R), Pittman (R), Scavello (R), Stefano (R), Vogel (R)
  • No votes: Sens. Art Haywood (D), Jay Costa (D), Vincent Hughes (D), and Sharif Street (D). 
  • HB 2513 will be up for final passage on September 21. 
• The Senate Community Education & Recreational Development Committee unanimously reported out HB 777 (Klunk—R, York), which would allow club licensees to use additional proceeds for operating expenses up to one year after the Emergency Declaration is ended. 
• With Congress is back in session and the Senate just introduced their version of the next phase of coronavirus relief legislation, U.S. Travel and the National Restaurant Association have issued action alerts. 
• AHLA released its 2019 tax study. The study illustrates the total tax rate broken down into the various tax categories, such as state, multi-county, county, city, sub-city, sales, and additional flat fees. 
• With 1 in 4 Americans collecting unemployment compensation in 2020, the IRS is reminding anyone who received UC in 2020 that it is taxable income. MORE INFORMATION
• Gov. Cuomo announced that New York City restaurants may resume indoor dining at 25% occupancy on September 30. READ MORE
• ICYMI: The City of Philadelphia has a new payment plan to support businesses that were in tax compliance before the pandemic struck. MORE INFORMATION

September 8

• This morning, Gov. Wolf announced that restaurants may return to 50% capacity on September 21, but the restaurant must self-certify by Oct. 5 to do so. Today's order also imposed a 10 p.m. curfew for alcohol sales and kept the ban on bar service, meal requirement for alcohol purchases, and 25-person cap on private events intact. PRESS RELEASE
• The Pa. Department of Community & Economic Development issued an FAQ document later in the day due to the volume of questions related to the self-certification requirement. Please note that the self-certification website by DCED will not be available until September 21. FAQ DOCUMENT
• PRLA issued a statement in response to the new order, saying it did not go far enough to restore industry standards prior to July 15. 
• The Pa. Senate Law & Justice Committee today unanimously moved out of committee HB 2513, which would restore restaurants to 50%, resume bar service, eliminate the meal requirement, and allow private events at 50% capacity. The bill now moves to the Senate floor for consideration. PRLA thanks the entire committee and especially Senators Stefano and Brewster for offering the amendments that would restore our industry to the standards that were in place before the July 15 mitigation order.  
• Indoor dining began today in Philadelphia. Here's what you need to know.
• As negotiations stall on a broad bipartisan COVID package in Congress, Senate Republicans are introducing targeted legislation that – while short of what either side prefers – would provide needed relief. Read the summary of the legislation provided to us by Republican Leadership.
• PRLA's weekly Industry Update webinar will take place tomorrow at 11 a.m. REGISTER
• The archive recording of last week's Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing is now available.

September 4

• The Pa. Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing today, September 4, at 1 p.m. on the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. Several representatives from the industry are scheduled to testify. You can watch the livestream of the hearing here. We'll publish the archive in next week's update.
• The Senate Law and Justice Committee will be meeting on Tuesday, September 8 to move HB 2513 (Everett—R, Lycoming). The bill will be amended with language that allows restaurants, hotels, clubs, distilleries, wineries, and breweries to open at a minimum of 50 percent occupancy with social distancing/barriers in place as permitted by the CDC and Department of Health. Identical language is also included to have the same provisions apply to “event venues.”
  • We encourage you to contact Committee members and urge their support of this legislation. 
  • Majority Chairman:
    • Sen. Pat Stefano, pstefano@pasen.gov, (717) 787-7175
  • Minority Chairman:
    • Sen. James Brewster, brewster@pasenate.com,  (717) 787-5580
  • Majority Members:
    • Sen. Ryan Aument, raument@pasen.gov, (717) 787-4420
    • Sen. Tom Killion, tkillion@pasen.gov, (717) 787-4712
    • Sen. Mike Regan, mregan@pasen.gov, (717) 787-8524
    • Sen. Judy Ward, jward@pasen.gov, (717) 787-5490
    • Sen. Gene Yaw, gyaw@pasen.gov, (717) 787-3280
    • Sen. Joe Scarnati, jscarnati@pasen.gov,  (717) 787-7084
  • Minority Members:
    • Sen. Wayne Fontana, fontana@pasenate.com, (717) 787-5300
    • Sen. Christine Tartaglione, tartaglione@pasenate.com, (717) 787-1141
    • Sen. Anthony Williams, anthony.williams@pasenate.com, (717) 787-5970
• Trip Advisor has launched two free products to help restaurants and hotels navigate COVID-19.
  • Travel Safe is a tool for businesses to update their listings on the site to include new health and safety measures it is taking to protect employees and guests. LEARN MORE
  • Create a free Contactless Menu for your restaurant in 3 easy steps. LEARN MORE
• The Daily Update will be back on Tuesday, September 8. Have a safe and successful Labor Day weekend. 

September 3

• The Pa. Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a hearing tomorrow, September 4, at 1 p.m. on the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. Several representatives from the industry are scheduled to testify. You can watch the livestream of the hearing here. 
• September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Our partners at UnitedHealth Group have numerous resources available to you or your team. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is staffed by certified professionals. Getting help is not a sign of weakness, but a show of strength.
• The following bills that support PRLA's priorities were filed this week:
  • SB 1299 – Removing the Food Requirement and Ban on Bar Service
  • SB 1300 – Expanding Outdoor Dining to Non-Contiguous Areas
  • SB 1301 – License Renewal Fee Waiver
  • SB 1302 – Removing the 25% Occupancy Requirement
• President Trump's payroll tax deferral began yesterday. Trump's executive order offers the possibility for workers to temporarily collect more money in their paychecks. But the money must be paid back later, and it's the employer's choice whether to opt in. READ MORE
• AHLA released an enhanced version of COVID-19 Precautions for Hotels, a hotel-specific online training course designed specifically for cleaning and safety during the pandemic. The training now includes a brand-new de-escalation module on how to reduce tensions and promote a safe environment while maintaining the spirit of hospitality throughout all interactions.
• Southern Smoke is a crisis relief organization for people in the food and beverage industry. It is still accepting applications but does prioritize medical emergencies first and foremost. LEARN MORE​

September 2

• The Small Business Administration is restricting PPP loan forgiveness for rent paid to a “related party,” according to guidance issued on August 24. In summary:
  • An eligible small business that accepted a PPP loan, and has a business owner that also maintains ownership in the property of the small business, will not be allowed forgiveness for the total rent paid to the owner-landlord. In these cases, the SBA plans to restrict loan forgiveness for rent limited to the amount of “mortgage interest owed” on the property during the Covered Period – not the full monthly rent payment as designed by Congress or reflected in the many SBA/Treasury rules issued since April 2020.
  • If this issue impacts you, please send a statement to Aaron Frazier, Director of Healthcare and Tax Policy, at aafrazier@restaurant.org.
• An attempt to override Gov. Wolf's veto of HR 836, which would have ended the governor's disaster declaration, failed by a vote of 118 to 84. The veto stands.
• The PLCB today updated two advisory notices:
  • Advisory Notice #25: eliminates the prohibition of the use of the word “wine” for products sold in distributors. It does not change the prohibition on distributors selling actual wine.
  • Advisory Notice #27: allows license renewals that occur prior to December 1 to continue to operate without renewing the license.
• The Philadelphia Department of Public Health released this video reviewing its specific guidelines for resuming indoor dining. Additionally, PRLA hosted city officials on a Q & A webinar this afternoon. If you were unable to join us live, here is the recording. 
• The National Restaurant Association has launched its national Restaurant Revival campaign with a new :30 second commercial and a :60 second extended cut, which will run on network and cable streams through September. This campaign ties into the ServSafe Dining Commitment, which provides best practices and training programs to welcome guests back safely.

September 1

• Yesterday, Gov. Wolf signed a second renewal of his 90-day disaster declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic. PRESS RELEASE
• On August 28, the IRS released its first notice regarding implementation of the President’s executive order on payroll tax deferral.
  • The notice makes clear that if the employer opts to defer payroll taxes, the employer is the affected taxpayer, not the employee. But again, based on our read and the analysis of others, it appears that this action is voluntary for the employer.
  • The notice makes no mention of nor seems to contemplate the employee making the election to defer.
  • Therefore, this would appear to be a decision left to the employer. 
• AHLA yesterday released an analysis on the economic and human struggle of the hotel industry six months into the COVID-19 pandemic. DOWNLOAD REPORT Key findings include:
  • 4 out of 10 hotel employees are still not working. 
  • Almost two-thirds (65%) of hotels remain at or below 50 percent occupancy, which is below the threshold at which most hotels can break-even and pay debt. 
  • Consumer travel remains at all-time low, with only 33 percent of Americans reporting they have traveled overnight for leisure or vacation since March and just 38 percent saying they are likely to travel by the end of the year. 
  • Urban hotels are suffering the most and facing collapse with cripplingly low occupancies of 38 percent, significantly below the national average. 
  • COVID-19 has left hotels in major cities across the country struggling to stay in business, resulting in massive job loss and dramatically reducing state and local tax revenue for 2020 and beyond. 
• Temple University School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management worked in conjunction with the Small Business Development Center, to develop the Center for Hospitality Resilience, which provides programming and assistance to the business community that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• ICYMI: Tomorrow, Sept. 2, at 1 p.m., PRLA will be hosting a webinar with officials from Philadelphia to review indoor dining regulations and answer your questions. REGISTER
• Today is the last day to complete the National Restaurant Association's economic impact survey. 

August 31

• Friday afternoon, Allegheny County updated its July 17 order to allow for outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people. All other requirements remain unchanged. PRESS RELEASE
• On Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 1 p.m., PRLA will be hosting a webinar with officials from Philadelphia to review indoor dining regulations and answer your questions. REGISTER
• Gov. Wolf today called on the Legislature to pass paid sick and family leave. READ MORE 
• Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. The survey closes at the COB on September 1.
• Pittsburgh Business Times published an op-ed by PRLA member and Eat'n Park CEO Jeff Broadhurst urging for the lessening the restaurant restrictions. READ MORE
• Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney issued an apology on Twitter this afternoon after a photo surfaced of him dining indoors at a Maryland restaurant while restaurants in Philadelphia have not been permitted to reopen their dining rooms. 

August 28

• MGM Resorts today announced it will send separation letters to 18,000 previously furloughed employees. READ MORE
• Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. 
• Today is the last day to apply for a COVID-19 Small Business Grant program. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. This will be the last round of grants from this program.

August 27

• Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. 
• The BLCE is reporting that last week it issued 21 warnings to licensees related to COVID-19 regulations. READ MORE | VIEW MONITORING DASHBOARD
• Tomorrow is the last day to apply for a COVID-19 Small Business Grant program. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. This will be the last round of grants from this program.
• The PLCB has provided a list of licensee-only products stocked at Licensee Service Centers and other specific locations across the state. Contact the wholesale team at ra-lbwholesale@pa.gov or plcbloop@pa.gov to discuss your needs, the location of these items, or how the PLCB can assist you in accessing these products.
• A recent National Restaurant Association survey of consumers found that the majority of U.S. adults say they know of a restaurant in their community that has permanently closed during the coronavirus outbreak. 

August 26

• Today, the National Restaurant Association launched another economic impact survey. Please take a few minutes to complete it. 
• AHLA released the findings from its national survey regarding consumers' reactions to the proactive safety and sanitation steps being take by hotels. Eight out of 10 frequent travelers say they feel comfortable staying in a hotel that has implemented protocols called for in AHLA’s Safe Stay initiative. MORE RESULTS
• If you missed today's Industry Update webinar, you can watch the recording here.
• This afternoon, the Philadelphia Inquirer published an op-ed by John Longstreet calling for the Governor to rescind his July 15 order. READ MORE
• The final window for applying to the COVID-19 Small Business Grant program will close on August 28. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. If you applied after the first application window, you need not reapply. All qualified applications will be rolled into this application window.
• ICYMI: Penn State University's Food Decisions Research Laboratory developed a profit-planning tool for small- and medium-sized restaurants to estimate and plan their profit and cash flows during the COVID-19 crisis, free of charge. LEARN MORE
• The National Restaurant Association Restaurant Law Center offers 5 guidelines on what you can do to protect your restaurant and employees. 

August 25

• Gov. Wolf today presented his fall legislative agenda via press release, which focused on three areas: 
  • Relief and protection for workers and families
  • Recovery for small businesses
  • Reforming government, protecting elections
• Both the Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman and House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff issued statements responding to the Governor's fall agenda. 
• The Governor's Office also shared an update of its COVID-19 monitoring dashboard and contact tracing results. As with the last update, less than half of those individuals surveyed actually responded. READ MORE
• Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Jerry Oleksiak today announced Pennsylvania will get nearly $1.5 billion to provide an extra $300 per week to eligible unemployed workers through the temporary federal Lost Wages Assistance program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. READ MORE
• Gov. Wolf today sent a letter calling on state lawmakers in both chambers to extend the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures as he does not have to legal authority to extend it beyond August 31. READ MORE
• PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE
• Crawford County Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Juanita Hampton will retire at the end of the week. Best wishes on your next adventure, Juanita! READ MORE
• ICYMI: PRLA and PA ProStart are asking for industry members to help identify and deliver creative virtual experiences to compliment and enrich high school culinary programs across PA. Let us know how you can support this initiative here.

August 24

• PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE
• AHLA announced over the weekend that the next Forum Speaker Series, Aug. 31 at 10 a.m. will feature a LIVE conversation with Mark Hoplamazian, President & CEO, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and AHLA Vice Chair of the Board, and Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, 56th Mayor of the City of Chicago. REGISTER
• ICYMI: Last week, Philadelphia announced it will allow for indoor dining on September 8. The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
• US Foods joins growing list of ghost kitchen services to help with off-premise push. The program aims to guide restaurant operators in opening facilities that produce food solely for delivery, with no dine-in areas. LEARN MORE

August 21

• Last night, the James Beard Foundation announced that it will suspend its awards program in 2020 and 2021. READ MORE 
• When Philadelphia allows for indoor dining on September 8, please note the following update to dining/service hours:
  • The last seating for indoor or outdoor dining will be 11 pm and establishments must close for service by midnight.
  • Establishments with a temporary license requiring outdoor seating to close by 10 p.m. will automatically shift to 11 p.m. on Sept. 8
  • Establishments currently offering seating after 11 p.m. / service after midnight will be required to meet the new 11 p.m. rule on Sept. 8. 
• The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
• ICYMI: The summer issue of the PRLA's quarterly magazine was released last week. Features articles from Ecolab, Peter Romero of Restaurant Business, National Restaurant Association, and a 2-part series by Tim Hand and Bruce Reinstein. 

August 20

• Today, Philadelphia announced indoor dining will begin on September 8. Noteworthy items from this announcement include:
  • 25 percent capacity
  • Tables have to have 4 seats or fewer
  • Servers must wear face masks AND face shields
  • Operators are encouraged to increase airflow via open windows and better HVAC 
  • Last call for all indoor dining orders will be at 11 p.m. and establishments will be required to be closed for service by midnight.
• The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
• Several bills and co-sponsorship memos have been introduced and circulated in response to PRLA's general and licensee-specific legislative priorities. These bills will be the focus of the legislative roundtables announced yesterday.  VIEW SUMMARY 
• This summer, the Temple University SBDC launched the Center for Hospitality Resilience. The Center is currently conducting a needs survey of the hospitality industry to get a better sense of what services would be most useful to you.
• The Restaurant Law Center has issued a white paper on what to do if a patron refuses to wear a mask. 
• On behalf of a coalition of businesses, the U.S. Chamber submitted a letter urging the Administration and Congress to find a cooperative path to forgive the tax liabilities deferred through the recent Executive Order Deferring Payroll Tax Obligations. 
• Former PRLA chairman of the board, Michael Passalacqua had an op-ed published in the Observer-Reporter asking for the data that justifies the current mitigation restrictions on the industry. 

August 19

• On today's Industry Update webinar, special guest Sean Kennedy, EVP of Government Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, provided insights on federal legislative packages. He also discussed the Association's Blueprint for Restaurant Revival. SUMMARY  |  FULL DOCUMENT
• Today, PRLA announced a circuit of virtual legislative roundtables for you to tell your stories to Pennsylvania's elected officials. PRLA currently has events scheduled in all of our active chapters, from August 25 through September 3. If you don't reside in an active chapter area, please reach out to Heidi Howard about scheduling a roundtable in your area.
• Rep. Pam Snyder (D, Greene/Westmoreland/Fayette counties) released this video in support of easing the restrictions on Pa. restaurants and bars. 
• The federal Senate GOP introduced a "skinny" proposal for a coronavirus relief bill. It includes a second round of PPP but, of note, it contains a provision that makes certain 501(c)(6) eligible. READ MORE
• As schools prepare to reopen for a unique year, PRLA and PA ProStart are asking for industry members to help identify and deliver creative virtual experiences to compliment and enrich these culinary programs across PA. Let us know how you can support this initiative here.
• The Centers for Disease Control and the Food & Drug Administration provided a summary of resources for restaurants. 
• Pa. Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding today announced that the 2021 Farm Show will be a virtual event. READ MORE
• Penn State University's Food Research Lab developed a profit-planning tool for small- and medium-sized restaurants to estimate and plan their profit and cash flows during the COVID-19 crisis, free of charge. LEARN MORE

August 18

• Today, the Pa. Department of Agriculture released COVID-19 enforcement actions for August 10-16. There were 637 total inspections, 31 of which were complaint-driven, nine were COVID-19 specific complaints. READ MORE
• Commissioner Farley reiterated at today's press conference that an announcement would be made for indoor dining for restaurants by August 21, if not sooner.
• Eater.com looks at why some landlords would rather let their restaurant tenants walk than reduce their rent. READ MORE
• A new national report shows that the hotel industry is facing a historic wave of foreclosures, with nearly 1 out of every 4 CMBS loans delinquent on payment. Nearly 4,000 hotel industry leaders sent an urgent letter to Congress urging immediate action by enacting the HOPE Act, bipartisan legislation intended to provide assistance to small businesses that operate in the ailing commercial real estate market.  
• AHLA yesterday released updated Safe Stay guidelines. Safe Stay website
• The National Restaurant Association last week announced that while consumer spending at restaurants is increasing, the July sales volume was about $13 billion lower than pre-COVID levels registered in January and February. READ MORE 
• Have you signed our "Stand With Restaurants" petition yet? Sign and share with your email lists. Or, download this sign to hang in your business. 
• The Pa. Department of Health on Friday released its contact tracing data, which showed that more than half of those who tested positive COVID-19 from July 13 through August 11 didn't respond to the survey. The Commonwealth Foundation has visually summarized the various state data. VIEW​

August 17

• Have you signed our "Stand With Restaurants" petition yet? Sign and share with your email lists. Or, download this sign to hang in your business. 
• Philadelphia today released a new payment plan to support businesses that were in tax compliance before the pandemic struck. This program is for businesses struggling to pay business taxes since March 1, 2020, and do not owe taxes prior to that date. LEARN MORE
• Today, Gov. Wolf announced the recipients of the $50 million hazard pay grants. READ MORE
• On Friday, Gov. Wolf announced an agreement to that will provide Lebanon County businesses and organizations with $12.8 million in CARES Act funding. READ MORE 
• ICYMI: Last week, PRLA hosted a webinar on de-escalation skills and techniques. The archive of the webinar is available here for you to share with your staff. 
• This week's Industry Update webinar on Wednesday, August 19 will feature special guest Sean Kennedy, National Restaurant Association EVP of Government Affairs. RSVP for our 11 a.m. webinar here.
• PRLA partner HRFoodSafe is offering in-person ServSafe Manager's Certification classes around Pennsylvania. All classes are following masking and social distancing guidelines to ensure participants' safety. UPCOMING CLASSES 
• The Democratic National Convention kicks off tonight and runs through Aug. 20. The Republican National Convention will run August 24-27. 

August 14

• The U.S. Senate officially adjourned through Labor Day despite not coming to an agreement on the next stimulus package. Here's where things stand.
• Sen. Chuck Schumer announced today his co-sponsorship of the RESTAURANTS Act, which would provide $120 billion in aid and assistance to restaurants. Find out what this might mean for the industry on Sean Kennedy's webinar on Wednesday, August 19 at 2 p.m. REGISTER
• The General Services Administration (GSA) announced the per diem rates for 2021. The FY2021 CONUS per diem rate is set at $151 ($96 lodging / $55 meals). READ MORE
• PRLA, Safe Service PGH, and the Allegheny County Health Department entered into a partnership to form Safe Service Allegheny. This collaborative effort provides tools and resources to assist the industry with all aspects of compliance. LEARN MORE
• Yesterday, Pa. Reps. Gary Day (R, Lehigh/Berks) and Ryan Mackenzie (R, Lehigh/Berks) introduced HB 2789, which allow restaurants to convert collected sales tax into a grant. The bill was referred to the House Finance Committee. 

August 13

• The SBA is warning consumers to beware of malicious COVID-19 phishing and scams. The SBA Cyber Security team is aware of a scheme involving malicious actors seeking personal information by impersonating the Office of Disaster Assistance and SBA-themed Eventbrite events. LEARN MORE | REPORT FRAUD
• The Pa. Department of Agriculture has released restaurant enforcement data for August 3-9. The numbers reflect actions taken for routine inspections and complaint-driven inspections. Of the 22 complaint-driven inspections, 4 were in relation to COVID-19. READ MORE 
• The Summer Issue of Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Matters is now available, with features from Peter Romero (Restaurant Business), Ecolab, National Resta

• PRLA continues to monitor all legislative activity, but below are a few of the measures that have been introduced to help our industry:
  • Business Interruption Insurance Relief
    • HB 2372 – Rep. Frank Dermody (D, Allegheny)  
    • Co-sponsor memo – Sen. Vincent Hughes (D, Philadelphia)
    • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Thomas Mehaffie (R, Dauphin)
  • Better access to working capital / Business relief
    • HB 2369 – Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R, Allegheny) – Low-interest loan program
    • SB 1096 – Sen. Tom Killion (R, Chester/Delaware) – Establishes a small business disaster and relief fund
    • Co-sponsor memo – Sen. Tom Killion – Halt on evictions and foreclosures for businesses
      Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Tarah Toohill (R, Luzerne) – Moratorium on payments for existing PIDA loans
    • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Todd Stephens (R, Montgomery) – Financial assistance for small businesses to meet payroll during shutdown
  • Tax Relief / UC Issues
    • Co-sponsor memo – Reps. David Rowe (R, Snyder) & Francis Ryan (R,Lebanon) – Suspension of sales and personal income tax
    • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Aaron Kaufer (R, Luzerne) – Seeks a waiver from the federal government to allow small business owners to collect unemployment compensation
    • Co-sponsor memo – Sen. Scott Martin (R, Lancaster) – Allows counties and municipal governments to make changes to their property tax discount and base periods, as well as remove penalties for late payments
    • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Anita Kulik (D, Allegheny) – Extends sales tax remittance deadline
  • While no travel bans currently exist in Pennsylvania, we have prepared template letters for essential hotel and foodservice workers that you can use if needed. HOTEL LETTER   RESTAURANT LETTER
  • Pennsylvania small businesses are eligible to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Relief Loans. APPLY ONLINE
  • Pennsylvania Shared-Work Program
    This program is through the Unemployment Compensation Office which allows an employer to temporarily reduce the work hours of a group of employees and divide the available hours equaling rather than laying off any employees.
  • Department of Community & Economic Development
    A collection of links to various resources for employers in response to COVID-19.
  • Office of Unemployment Compensation
    Resources and information regarding UC benefits. Prepare now so if you or your employees need to file, your application(s) can be processed quickly.
  • AH&LA is surveying hoteliers to identify those who are willing to enter into temporary leases for certain types of lodging properties at this time. TAKE SURVEY
  • The Pa. Department of Human Services is conducting a Feeding & Sheltering Survey of Pa. businesses.  
  • Must Have Menus has released a Coronavirus Response Kit for Restaurants full of actionable messaging templates that your restaurants can use for Takeout, Delivery, Safety, Hours, Pick-Up, Meal Kits and more.
  • ServSafe recently launched two, new free on-demand training modules to address COVID-19 precautions for takeout and delivery. It's available in English and Spanish. SERVSAFE Takeout and Delivery: COVID-19 Precautions