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: October 25 at 4:54 p.m.
October 21
  • Pennsylvania restaurants and bars still crave the return of cocktails to go but have been waiting for months for the Senate to act on legislation that will once again allow them to sell alcoholic beverages to go. 
    • ACTION ALERT: HB 1154, which contains key recovery provisions for the industry, remains stuck in the state Senate waiting for a concurrence vote. If passed in its current form, this bill makes cocktails-to-go permanent, keeps the streamlined ability for outdoor seating, eliminates safekeeping fees, allows licensees to have unlimited off-premise catering permits, and more. Call your senators today and ask them to move and support HB 1154! TAKE ACTION
  • The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to the U.S. Conference of Mayors asking them to consider extending and promoting outdoor dining allowances and make it easier for restaurants to operate outdoors this winter. 
  • In a press conference this afternoon, Gov. Wolf unveiled his agenda for Pennsylvania workers that will create safer workplaces, guarantee paid leave, and increase worker pay. The paid leave and increase to minimum wage aspects of his agenda would need to be passed through the Legislature; however, he signed an executive order that:
    1. Directed the Department of Labor & Industry to study the feasibility of implementing OSHA standards in state government offices.
    2. Directed the DCED or any other agency that provides financial assistance to for-profit businesses to require those companies to have paid sick leave and pay a minimum wage that meets or exceeds the minimum wage outlined in Executive Order 2016-02 As Amended. 
  • The CDC and US Food and Drug Administration appear to have identified the source of the months-long salmonella outbreak that has sickened 652 people in 37 states. The FDA's traceback investigation, while ongoing, has identified ProSource Inc. as a source of potentially contaminated whole, fresh onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, and the subclusters of sick people are associated with restaurant and foodservice locations. 
  • The American Hotel & Lodging Association was named as one of the top-performing trade associations by APCO Worldwide's 2021 TradeMarks study. 

October 20
  • An obscure White House office, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, is expected to give the green light on the rule for President Biden's vaccination-or-testing rule any day. The rule will detail how and when companies will have to require their employees to be vaccinated or undergo weekly testing, as well as outline the full enforcement deadline. 
  • Experts worry summer's robust restaurant industry rebound was 'an artificial sugar rush' due to ongoing labor and supply chain woes and no additional government assistance on the horizon. 
  • A year and a half after the pandemic began, restaurants are still grappling with a shaky supply chain. While conditions are expected to stabilize, long-term effects, from a rise in automation to more adaptable sourcing practices, will remain.
  • If you missed Melissa Bova's final Industry Update webinar this morning, you can watch it on-demand here. Melissa was joined by special guest Carrier Fischer Lepore from DCED to discuss the Administration's vaccination outreach campaign.  
  • We would like to extend our congratulations to Brian Black, director of industry and alumni relations for Penn State University's School of Hospitality Management, on his new role as director of corporate engagement for the Smeal College of Business. Brian most recently served on the PRLA Board of Directors and as co-chairman of the PRLA's Education, Health & Safety Committee. #WeAre
    • Penn State University School of Hospitality Management is hiring for the director of industry and alumni relations position (Constituent Programming & Events Officer 5). Read the full job description and apply online here. 
  • ACTION ALERT: HB 1154, which contains key recovery provisions for the industry, remains stuck in the state Senate waiting for a concurrence vote. If passed in its current form, this bill makes cocktails-to-go permanent, keeps the streamlined ability for outdoor seating, eliminates safekeeping fees, allows licensees to have unlimited off-premise catering permits, and more. Call your senators today and ask them to move and support HB 1154! TAKE ACTION
  • Over the summer, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Food & Beverage team members worked alongside Milton Hershey School's Transitional Living program to create a culinary boot camp to prepare seniors for life after graduation. 
  • Democrats in Congress have narrowed the scope of a proposal to increase the amount of information the IRS receives about bank accounts, amid a massive lobbying effort against the proposal from banks and Republicans. 

October 19
  • We're excited to welcome travel & tourism professionals from across Pennsylvania to Harrisburg tomorrow for the 2021 PA Tourism Summit. Many thanks to our sponsors for supporting this year's event. Check out the full schedule of events including insightful speakers, informative breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and more at www.prla.org/pats.
  • PRLA's Melissa Bova has announced that she will be stepping down as our vice president of government affairs the week of Nov. 8 to tackle a new challenge at a DC-based national association. Melissa has been the backbone of PRLA's advocacy efforts for the last 10 years, advancing the hospitality and tourism industries while cementing the organization's status as a trusted partner and resource in Harrisburg. We are grateful for her service to PRLA and the industry and wish her success in her new position. 
  • Since we still have her on the team for a couple more weeks, please join us for her last Industry Update webinar tomorrow, Oct. 20, at 11 a.m. REGISTER
  • Ben Fileccia, PRLA’s director of operations and strategy, spoke with 6ABC yesterday about the importance of Councilman Allan Domb’s outdoor dining legislation. Restaurants in Philly are eagerly awaiting approval of these two bills. You can sign this petition to show your support. 
  • ACTION ALERT: HB 1154, which contains key recovery provisions for the industry, remains stuck in the state Senate waiting for a concurrence vote. If passed in its current form, this bill makes cocktails-to-go permanent, keeps the streamlined ability for outdoor seating, eliminates safekeeping fees, allows licensees to have unlimited off-premise catering permits, and more. Call your senators today and ask them to move and support HB 1154! TAKE ACTION
  • The U.S. announced last week that it would open its borders to vaccinated travelers beginning Nov. 8. However, the new policy will block entry to foreign nationals who have recovered from COVID-19 and then gotten one dose of two-dose vaccines—a standard that France and the EU consider full vaccination. 
  • Philadelphia's Cook N Solo has partnered with Chicago's Boka Restaurant Group to bring a branch of their Israeli skewer house, Laser Wolf, to the Hoxton Hotel in Brooklyn, NY. 
  • Dr. Rachel Levine was ceremonially sworn in today as a four-star admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, becoming the nation's first openly transgender four-star officer across any of the uniformed services of the United States. 
  • Join the Philadelphia Chapter at 4 p.m. on Oct. 26 for a conversation around "Safe Work Culture." This virtual panel discussion will be moderated by Maria Campbell (founder of Cooks Who Care) and focus on mental health, wellness, and safety in the service industry. REGISTER

October 18
  • Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, the dean of Pennsylvania's congressional delegation, today announced that he will not seek another term in office in next year's election, bringing his career in Washington to an end after 28 years. 
  • On Sunday, U.S. Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg acknowledged that some of the ongoing supply chain strains will persist into 2022. He said that the Administration is working to alleviate the squeeze but it is limited in some aspects in how it can intervene given the multifaceted nature of the global supply chain that is mostly in private hands. 
  • Colin Powell, the barrier-breaking soldier and diplomat who served Democratic and Republican presidents, died Monday of COVID-19 complications. He was 84. Obituary
  • ACTION ALERT: HB 1154, which contains key recovery provisions for the industry, remains stuck in the state Senate waiting for a concurrence vote. If passed in its current form, this bill makes cocktails-to-go permanent, keeps the streamlined ability for outdoor seating, eliminates safekeeping fees, allows licensees to have unlimited off-premise catering permits, and more. Call your senators today and ask them to move and support HB 1154! TAKE ACTION
  • Restaurants brace for a future with fewer workers: More industry executives believe restaurants may never get all their workers back and should focus on improving overall productivity. 
    • An Arkansas restaurant has found an innovative way to recruit younger employees by offering them a way to better balance their school and work life—by paying high school workers to devote an hour of their shift to doing their homework. 
  • Today is the last day for Pennsylvanians to register to vote for the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 2. 

October 15
  • The PRLA Spirit of Hospitality Awards annually recognizes individuals and organizations for their contributions to the hospitality industry and their communities. Please join us in congratulating the following individuals and organizations on their achievements and contributions to our industry this past year:
    • Rising Star – Jenna Scull, Visit Bucks County
    • Employee of the Year – Nikki Lang,  Inn at Jim Thorpe
    • Manager of the Year – Susan Drexinger, ArtsQuest
    • Industry Innovator – Isidore Ogoussan, 1847 Financial
    • Wilmer S. Lapp Community Service – Domenick Savino, Drexelbrook Special Event Center & Hotel
    • Event of the Year – Musikfest by ArtsQuest
    • Learn more about their stories and help celebrate all of our award winners at PRLA's Awards Gala (presented by Dell Technologies) on Monday, Nov. 8 at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh. Register to attend now at www.prla.org/fallconference.
      • The room block at the Omni William Penn Hotel expires today (Oct. 15) at 11 p.m. Please note, the Pittsburgh Steelers play at home for Monday Night Football, so hotel rooms will sell out in Pittsburgh. Don't delay — book your room for the Annual Conference today either online or by calling 1 (888) 843-6664 (use the code PRLA). 
  • American Hotel & Lodging Association President & CEO Chip Rogers today released a statement following a White House announcement that it will lift travel restrictions for foreign visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 beginning Nov. 8. 
  • East Lampeter Township Police Chief Stephen Zerbe said an investigation into the crash that left state Rep. Matt Dowling (R, Fayette) hospitalized with significant trauma suggests that Dowling suffered a medical episode that contributed to the crash. Dowling remains hospitalized at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital. 
  • Yesterday, longtime state legislator Sen. Bob Mensch (R, parts of Berks, Bucks, and Montgomery counties) announced that he will be retiring after his current term ends in 2023. Mensch was first elected into the state House of Representatives in 2006 before being elected to the state Senate in 2009.  

​October 14
  • PRLA is pleased to present the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award to...Kevin Joyce! Proprietor of Pittsburgh's esteemed The Carlton Restaurant for nearly four decades, Kevin is a past Chairman of PRLA's Board of Directors and has made considerable contributions to the hospitality industry and to the City of Pittsburgh through the years. Help us celebrate Kevin at the PRLA Annual Conference & Spirit of Hospitality Awards Gala on Monday, Nov. 8 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Omni William Penn Hotel. PURCHASE GALA TICKETS
    • The room block at the Omni William Penn Hotel expires tomorrow, Oct. 15. Please note, the Pittsburgh Steelers play on Monday Night Football, so hotel rooms will sell out in Pittsburgh. Don't delay — book your room for the Annual Conference today either online or by calling 1 (888) 843-6664 (use the code PRLA). 
  • The CDC informed the National Restaurant Association that many restaurant workers would fit the criteria for those food and agricultural workers who are eligible to receive a Pfizer booster shot. CDC has said that people would self-identify as qualifying for a booster under this guidance. Visit PA Unites Against COVID to locate a facility providing Pfizer booster shots.
  • The Associated Press today reported that the number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell to its lowest level since the pandemic began, a sign the job market is still improving even as hiring has slowed in the past two months. 
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb has introduced two bills that would create a streamlined process for outdoor dining in the city. Sign this petition today to show your support. 
  • State Sens. Laughlin (R-Erie) and Street (D-Philadelphia) introduced a bill on Tuesday that would legalize, tax, and regulate recreational cannabis in the Commonwealth. Two weeks ago, state Reps. Wheatley (D-Pittsburgh) and Frankel (D-Pittsburgh) introduced a similar bill in their chamber. 
  • The Hill is reporting that the White House coronavirus task force is urging state leaders to be ready to begin rolling out COVID-19 vaccination efforts for kids as early as the start of November. 

October 13
  • Last night, OSHA sent its Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) to the White House Office of Management and Budget for review. While there is no timeline for the OMB to finish its review, we anticipate it will be within the next few weeks. Once the review is complete and published in the Federal Register, it becomes effective immediately. The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs to comment on the impact this rule will have on the industry. 
  • Yesterday, DHS Secretary Mayorkas issued new worksite enforcement guidance related to undocumented workers on jobsites. They have indicated that they will not be conducting large-scale worksite raids but rather will be working with undocumented workers to identify bad-actor employers. 
  • New government statistics show nearly 7% of hospitality workers left their jobs in August, making the industry the most abandoned sector of the national workplace by a huge margin. No other industry came close to that level of voluntary departures. 
  • The Biden Administration is facing growing backlash over a plan to provide the IRS with data on individual bank accounts with more than $600. The proposal emerged as a way to recover some of the estimated $600 billion per year in unpaid taxes, largely owed by wealthy people and businesses, to pay for the "Build Back Better" social spending program. 
  • The Associated Press today reported that the U.S. will reopen its land borders to nonessential travel next month, ending a 19-month freeze as the country moves to require all international visitors to be vaccinated against the coronavirus. 
  • PRLA member Iron Hill Brewery today named Chris Westcott its new CEO. Westcott most recently led Rosa Mexicano. Previous CEO Kim Boerema left in March to be president of Hard Rock Cafe and founder Kevin Finn stepped in as acting CEO in the interim. 
  • If you missed today's webinar with the SBA Easter PA Office on COVID-19 relief programs and services provided by the SBA, you can watch the recording on-demand here. 
  • Today, PRLA's Ben Fileccia joined the Dawn Stensland Show on Talk Radio 1210 WPHT to discuss what the proposed legislation to cap third-party delivery and marketing fees would mean for our industry. 
  • The PRLA Annual Conference returns with a 2-day, in-person event in the Steel City. We have dynamic speakers lined up to celebrate and inspire you, including Meridith Elliott Powell, Dane Wysocki, Chip Rogers, and Sean Kennedy. The conference rate is $250/person; however, to give back to the industry as we recover from the devastating impact of the coronavirus, PRLA is sponsoring half of each attendee's conference fee. Please note that the room block rates expire on October 15 so book your room today!

October 12
  • The Restaurant Strong Fund and Grubhub are teaming up to provide over $4,000,000 in grants to support small business restaurants in 7 cities, including Philadelphia. The grant application will open to the first 500 restaurants tomorrow, October 13th at 9 a.m. Awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000 and be distributed via a three-phase review process. Apply beginning 10/13 HERE.
  • PRLA's Vice President of Government Affairs, Melissa Bova, was recently recognized as one of Chester County Conference & Visitors Bureau's "Hospitality Heroes". WATCH
  • The Philadelphia Chapter will host a virtual panel discussion on October 26 at 4:00 p.m around “Safe Work Culture”, focusing on mental health and wellness organizations whose resources are available to the service industry.
  • The Associated Press reported that workers quit their jobs at record pace in August, especially in hard-hit COVID-19 areas. Job gains were weak for a second straight month in September, with only 194,000 jobs added, though the unemployment rate fell to 4.8% from 5.2%.
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) launched “Restaurants Advance: Journeys that Inspire” spotlighting excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The series of uplifting stories, brought to you by PepsiCo, features members of the restaurant, foodservice and hospitality industry who represent the highest standards in DEI and achieved the American Dream.
Congratulations to three Philadelphia restaurants for making The New York Times' 2021 Restaurant List, including PRLA member CookNSolo Restaurants' Laser Wolf.
October 11
  • PABBI is hosting the Keystone Innkeepers Assembly, which features educational sessions and certification courses such as ServSafe, on Nov. 15-16 in Boalsburg, Pa. The cost to attend is $159/PABBI members and $199/nonmembers. The room block discount at the Wyndham Garden Boalsburg expires Oct. 14. DETAILS & REGISTER
  • Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro is expected to announce his candidacy for Governor in the 2022 race later this week.
  • PRLA's Director of Government Affairs, Zak Pyzik, joined the Cooks Who Care "Concierge Desk" Instagram Live this afternoon for a conversation on civic engagement and how to make your voice heard with your elected officials.
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory reports that although GDP forecasts have been slightly downgraded due to variant complications and recent economic trends, GDP continues to set new records and CBRE forecasts most markets will return to full employment by mid-2022.
  • The first ever Lancaster County Restaurant Week runs Oct. 25–31, 2021. Any restaurant located within the county is invited to register to participate by Friday, October 22nd. Benefits local farmland preservation via the Lancaster Farmland Trust.
  • ICYMI Philly Action Alert: Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb has introduced a pair of bills that would make streeteries a permanent fixture on Philly's restaurant scene. Please contact the Mayor and City Council today and ask that they support Councilmember Domb's legislation. TAKE ACTION

October 8
  • Today's jobs report by the U.S. Department of Labor showed another month of tepid gains, with the economy only adding 194,000 jobs in September. Leisure and hospitality only added 74,000 jobs and is still off by 1.6 million versus pre-pandemic numbers.
  • Research by Technomic indicates that many employees are stressed and even those working are considering leaving the industry. A recent survey by online job marketplace Joblist revealed that 58% of restaurant and hotel employees intend to quit their jobs at the end of the year, stoking what the researchers have dubbed The Great Resignation. If the pattern set by earlier quitters persists, 25% of those workers will leave the industry for good. 
  • Philly Action Alert: Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb has introduced a pair of bills that would make streeteries a permanent fixture on Philly's restaurant scene. Please contact the Mayor and City Council today and ask that they support Councilmember Domb's legislation. TAKE ACTION
  • Bobby Flay and Food Network to part ways after 27 years, with sources saying that Food Network has ended negotiations for a new contract. 
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of public affairs at the National Restaurant Association, is back with another 90-second update and covering the reconciliation bill, debt ceiling, and other priorities. The restaurant industry cannot afford for Congress to lose sight of the critical need to replenish the RRF so keep sending messages.  
  • State Rep. Matt Dowling (R-part of Fayette/Somerset counties) was in a serious car accident Thursday evening en route to a Republican party event in Lancaster County. He is reported to be in serious but stable condition.
  • PRLA is surveying hotel owners and operators on their interest in statewide legislation that would enable counties to form Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs). If you own/operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey.

​October 7
  • Earlier this week, Gov. Wolf announced that the Pa. Liquor Control Board (PLCB) had approved grants totaling $925,319 for seven beer projects, including nearly $500,000 for Harrisburg-based GK Visual to make another 12 episodes of the web series "Poured in PA." The PLCB also approved seven wine projects, totaling $1 million.
  • Philly Action Alert: Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb has introduced a pair of bills that would make streeteries a permanent fixture on Philly's restaurant scene. Please contact the Mayor and City Council today and ask that they support Councilmember Domb's legislation. TAKE ACTION
  • This week's episode of the Restaurant Business podcast "A Deeper Dive" explores why the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) may be poised to take a harder look at franchising in general and nine franchises specifically (Subway, Dickey's, 7-Eleven, IHG Hotels, Choice Hotels, the UPS Store, Eperimax, Supercuts, and Massage Envy). 
  • Longtime Lancaster Chamber President & CEO Tom Baldridge announced Wednesday that he will retire in June 2022. 
  • The Merchants Fund seeks to provide grants of up to $5,000 to businesses in Philadelphia that have suffered direct physical damage or inventory losses from flooding relating to Hurricane Ida. PROGRAM DETAILS
  • The City of Los Angeles is moving forward with a vaccine mandate for restaurant guests. The requirement was approved Wednesday by the City Council, and Mayor Eric Garcetti has already signaled his support. 
  • The Philadelphia Food Waste Business Challenge has extended its deadline to October 31, 2021. This new pilot program, through the Office of Sustainability, will engage a minimum of 10 Philadelphia businesses in pursuing new wasted food prevention and recycling programs. Interested businesses can apply here. 
  • Visit Delco PA is pleased to announce the return of Meet Me In Delco, a premier event showcasing the county's venues, hotels, caterers, and restaurants, on October 26 at the Inn at Villanova University. 

October 6
  • The House recessed today and plans to return to session next on Monday, October 25. Items of note this session included:
    • HB 1829, which would amend the Child Labor Act to permanently suspend the requirement for minors seeking a work permit to sign the permit in the presence of an issuing office, passed the House today with a 198-1 vote. The bill also allows the issuing officer to conduct the exam portion of the application process via video conference.
    • The PA House Tourism & Recreational Development Committee, along with the House Game & Fisheries Committee, today held a joint informational meeting to discuss the increase in outdoor activities that we witnessed during the pandemic, and ways to help maintain this increase.
    • The PA House Finance Committee today hosted an informational meeting on the revitalization of Pennsylvania’s Business Tax Climate. The Committee also discussed how now, as businesses look to turn the corner on the pandemic, is a great time to look at growth opportunities for our business community.
  • The Senate will return to session on Monday, October 18.
  • The National Conference of State Legislators has put together a website that details how each state has spent their American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. Pennsylvania’s usage stipulates $3.8 billion has been put aside for “later use”.
  • The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation has awarded $1 million in scholarship funds to 376 students for the 2021/2022 academic year. Fifty of those students are part of a new scholarship program which partners with 10, 2-year hospitality programs around the country. The other 326 students are enrolled in bachelor and graduate hospitality degree programs across the United States.
  • October Mindful Minute from Dr. Kate Burke, Senior Medical Advisor at PatientsLikeMe: "Let This Pass"
  • ICYMI: Watch the recording of this morning's Industry Update webinar HERE.
    • Today’s webinar was sponsored by Hospitality-Health. Through PRLA, your part-time and full-time team members can now get affordable personal health insurance for themselves and their families with no employer participation or contribution. Please invite your team members who are not eligible for employer-sponsored group health coverage to visit www.hospitality-health.com/prla for more information.
  • The PRLA team extends our condolences to the family and friends of Adan Trinidad, renowned chef and part-owner of Philadelphia’s Pistola’s bar-restaurants, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this week.

October 5
  • As health authorities search for the source, a restaurant-related salmonella outbreak has sickened another 140 people and spread to six more states, according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC).
  • As Philadelphia City Council continues to consider a permanent cap on commission and marketing fees charged by third-party delivery apps, The New Yorker dives into the question themselves. 
  • The Delaware Valley Journal takes a look at the impact of the delta variant on the restaurant industry. 
  • The Editorial Board at the Philadelphia Inquirer yesterday came out in favor of Councilmember Domb's proposed legislation that would make outdoor dining a permanent feature in Philadelphia. 
  • The Senate Democratic Policy Committee today held a hearing to discuss Senate Bill 716, which would require employers in Pennsylvania to provide certain workplace accommodations for pregnant employees. These accommodations can include anything from assistance to heavy lifting to access to a special amount of break time. The bill has been referred to the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. 
  • The PRLA Annual Conference returns with a 2-day, in-person event in the Steel City. We have dynamic speakers lined up to celebrate and inspire you, including Meridith Elliott Powell, Dane Wysocki, Chip Rogers, and Sean Kennedy. The conference rate is $250/person; however, to give back to the industry as we recover from the devastating impact of the coronavirus, PRLA is sponsoring half of each attendee's conference fee. 
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation is now a recognized charity of the Round It Up America program. RIUA integrates with multiple POS partners and can run 365 days a year. This November, PRLAEF will be launching a month-long fundraising campaign to support its scholarship program and frontline hospitality relief fund (HARP). If you are interested in bringing RIUA to your operation, please email Hope Sterner your name, business name, and POS system to get started. 

October 4
  • After a brief glimpse of normalcy this summer, the fragile recovery in the U.S. restaurant industry is sputtering, according to Bloomberg News. 
  • CNBC.com reports that restaurant owners nationwide are pushing to make street-side dining permanent. Last week, Philadelphia City Councilmember Allan Domb introduced two bills to do just that. The Philadelphia Citizen today published an op-ed by Jon Geeting, director of engagement for Philadelphia 3.0, makes the case as to why Philly still needs streateries.  
  • Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp suffered a worldwide outage just before noon on the East Coast, with service yet to be restored. The cause of the outage remains unclear. 
  • Lancasteronline.com takes a look at the impact of Act 39, which allowed beer sales at grocery and convenience stores, on beer distributors.
  • State Sen. Mike Regan (R-Cumberland) today circulated a memo to his Senate colleagues announcing his intent to introduce legislation legalizing adult-use marijuana in Pennsylvania. 
  • A vintage Pennsylvania motel, the last remaining 'motor court' on the entire Lincoln Highway, is for sale. The Lincoln Motor Court, located in Bedford County, is said to be the last of its kind on a stretch of road that runs 3,000 miles from New York City to San Francisco. 
  • The Pennsylvania House returned to session today. The Senate returns on Monday, October 18.
  • On Friday, Gov. Wolf and the Department of Health confirmed that as of Sept. 21, 67.9% of Pennsylvanians over the age of 18 are fully vaccinated. The PA Unites Against COVID website contains valuable information on vaccination locations and educational resources. 
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation is now a recognized charity of the Round It Up America program. RIUA integrates with multiple POS partners and can run 365 days a year. This November, PRLAEF will be launching a month-long fundraising campaign to support its scholarship program and frontline hospitality relief fund (HARP). If you are interested in bringing RIUA to your operation, please email Hope Sterner your name, business name, and POS system to get started. 

October 1
  • The Philadelphia plastic bag ban went into effect this morning (Oct. 1). The ban targets single-use plastic bags like the ones used at supermarkets. The City has created flyers in multiple languages about the ban for businesses and residents. 
  • President Biden signed legislation to avoid a partial federal shutdown and keep the government funded through Dec. 3. 
  • Today, the PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship program opened to receive applications for the 2022-23 school year. It's open to all Pennsylvania residents who are (or will be enrolled) in a post-secondary culinary arts or hospitality management program next year. PROGRAM DETAILS 
  • Congratulations to Breffini Noone, Penn State associate professor of hospitality management, on being named the first-ever Revenue Optimization Educator of the Year by Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI).
  • The National Restaurant Association will be hosting a webinar on Oct. 6 at 2 p.m. to provide an update on the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and other under-utilized tax incentives for the restaurant industry. REGISTER
  • Last week the U.S. Department of Labor issued a final rule on Civil Monetary Penalties, restoring the department's ability to assess CMPs of up to $1,100 per violation against employers who take tips earned by their employees, regardless of whether those violations are repeated or willful. This rule also provides clarification on the 2020 Tip final rule addressing managers and supervisors. While managers or supervisors may not receive tips from mandatory tip pools, managers and supervisors are not prohibited from contributing tips to eligible employees in such pools. 
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation is now a recognized charity of the Round It Up America program. RIUA integrates with multiple POS partners and can run 365 days a year. This November, PRLAEF will be launching a month-long fundraising campaign to support its scholarship program and frontline hospitality relief fund (HARP). If you are interested in bringing RIUA to your operation, please email Hope Sterner your name, business name, and POS system to get started. 

​September 30
  • The number of workers applying for first-time jobless aid increased for the third week in a row last week—a sign the surge in coronavirus cases is causing an uptick in layoffs. 
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb today introduced a pair of bills that would establish new regulations to allow for permanent outdooring dining across every city neighborhood, providing oversight and enforcement for sidewalk cafes and streeteries.
  • With only hours to spare, Congress passed legislation that would avoid a partial federal shutdown and keep the government funded through Dec. 3, and sent the bill to President Joe Biden. 
  • The U.S. Department of Agriculture is sending $1.5 billion to schools struggling to serve students healthy lunches as supply chain disruptions lead to continued food shortages, delivery delays, and high costs.
  • California Sen. Diane Feinstein yesterday introduced legislation requiring passengers on domestic flights be vaccinated, test negative, or be fully recovered from a previous COVID illness. United Airlines announced it would be letting go of close to 600 employees who failed to comply with the company's mandate of getting vaccinated. 
  • Philadelphia's Unidos Contra COVID is hosting Latin America Thrives, a vaccination event at Love Park on Friday from noon to 4 p.m. that will be offering first, second, and booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine. No appointment is necessary.
  • The latest Morning Consult Tracking the Return to Normal found that comfort with dining indoors and outdoors, individually, ticked up by 2 points each from last week. However, there still is an 11-point gap between outdoor and indoor comfort.  
  • The National Restaurant Association today released the results (INFOGRAPHIC) of its latest economic impact survey. Thanks to you, we had enough data for Pennsylvania-specific results. More than half of restaurant operators across the nation and in Pennsylvania say that business conditions are worse now than three months ago.
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation is now a recognized charity of the Round It Up America program. RIUA integrates with multiple POS partners and can run 365 days a year. This November, PRLAEF will be launching a month-long fundraising campaign to support its scholarship program and frontline hospitality relief fund (HARP). If you are interested in bringing RIUA to your operation, please email Hope Sterner your name, business name, and POS system to get started. 

September 29
  • Pa. state lawmakers today held a joint committee hearing to learn more about the supply chain disruptions impacting the alcohol industry. Officials say that the shortage we're seeing on some products may last into 2022.
  • The National Restaurant Association today released the results (INFOGRAPHIC) of its latest economic impact survey. Thanks to you, we had enough data for Pennsylvania-specific results. More than half of restaurant operators across the nation and in Pennsylvania say that business conditions are worse now than three months ago.
  • The National Restaurant Association also sent a letter to congressional leadership outlining the association's strong objection to the proposed "Build Back Better Act" that leaders aim to move via the reconciliation process. 
  • The Wall Street Journal takes a look at the restaurants and hotels that are pushing back against the uptick in customer tantrums, including PRLA-member the Brewerie at Union Station in Erie. Owners are setting new ground rules during the pandemic, going against the adage that the customer is always right. 
  • In order to help close the gap between job vacancies and applicants, Indeed and OpenTable have teamed up for a month-long hiring initiative to help restaurants get staffed up again. Called Interview Days: Restaurant Jobs, the initiative will run for the entire month of October and offer online tools to help restaurateurs find workers and interview them. (Portal for employees)
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation is now a recognized charity of the Round It Up America program. RIUA integrates with multiple POS partners and can run 365 days a year. This November, PRLAEF will be launching a month-long fundraising campaign to support its scholarship program and frontline hospitality relief fund (HARP). If you are interested in bringing RIUA to your operation, please email Hope Sterner your name, business name, and POS system to get started. 
  • The House Labor & Industry Committee today unanimously approved two bills, moving them along the legislative process:
    • HB 1819: claimants of unemployment compensation may not take actions to discourage employers from hiring them.
    • HB 1829: would amend the Child Labor Act to permanently suspend the requirement for minors seeking a work permit to sign the permit in the presence of the issuing officer. It also allows the issuing officer to conduct the examination portion of the application process via video conference.
  • Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald today announced that all county employees will be required to show proof of vaccination by Dec. 1. The county said anyone who is in violation or does not meet an exception will face termination.
  • Are you not yet taking advantage of our Manufacturer’s Rebate Program? You could be receiving quarterly rebate checks on qualifying items that you already purchase such as food items, paper products, and cleaning supplies. Enroll before September 30 for Q3 MRP savings.

September 28
  • The Denver City Council unanimously approved the "Back to Work" relief grant program aimed at helping local employers in the city's restaurant and hospitality industries attract, hire, retain, and incent critically needed workers. The city is contracting with the Colorado Restaurant Foundation and CO Event Alliance to administer cash grants of up to $10,000 each to employers located in Denver. 
  • Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is telling Congress that the Treasury Department will likely exhaust all of its "extraordinary measures" to avoid an unprecedented default on the government's obligations by Oct. 18. 
  • The Hill is reporting that business groups are growing increasingly frustrated as Labor Department officials move forward with President Biden's vaccine requirement without seeking their input.
  • House Bill 1497, which would relax the Liquor Code's noise regulations by allowing 75 decibels beyond the property line, is working its way through the legislative process. 
  • PABBI is hosting the Keystone Innkeepers Assembly, an educational conference for innkeepers, on Nov. 15-16 in Boalsburg, Pa. The cost to attend is $159/PABBI members and $199/nonmembers. The room block discount at the Wyndham Garden Boalsburg expires Oct. 14. DETAILS & REGISTER
  • The American Red Cross is putting out an urgent call for blood donors, as officials say they are experiencing the lowest blood supply in six years. Donors of all blood types, but especially type O, are needed. Make an appointment to donate at a blood drive in your community today.  
  • Congratulations to Marriott International Inc. on being named to the Seramount (formerly Working Mother Media) 100 Best Companies list for the 28th time and the Seramount Best Companies for Dads list for the second consecutive year!
  • October is Cyber Security Awareness Month. Protect your data and your customer information with any number of solutions from Dell Technologies. Visit www.dell.com/PRLA for more information on how to save money and protect your business.
  • PRLA is surveying hotel owners and operators on their interest in statewide legislation that would enable counties to form Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs). If you own/operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey.

September 27
  • The National Restaurant Association is hosting the 2021 Mid-year State of the Restaurant Industry Update on Tuesday, September 28 at 2 p.m. This session will address the continuing impact of COVID-19 on the industry capturing labor issues, sales data, and food and menu price trends. It's free to attend but registration is required. REGISTER
  • The Republican-dominated Pa. House State Government Committee today passed several voting reform measures, including ones that call for the use of voter identification in all elections. In addition, the Committee passed a proposed constitutional amendment that would require people voting in person or by mail to present "valid identification." Going the Constitutional amendment route would bypass the Governor's veto pen. 
  • National Food Safety Month wraps up this week by highlighting best practices for your operation's cleaning program. Join Ecolab on Thursday, September 30 at 2 p.m. for tips on creating or improving a master cleaning plan. REGISTER
  • The U.S. Postal Service took action in March that is going to start having an impact on your mail on October 1. Mail traveling within a local area (within a 3-hour drive) will still be delivered within 2 days. However, mail traveling the greatest distances will be most affected, with one to two days of transit time added. 
  • State Rep. Kevin Boyle was arrested Friday, allegedly for violating a protection from abuse order and for harassment. The arrest comes days after his caucus leaders quietly stripped him of his committee chairmanship and curtailed his access to the Capitol. Gov. Wolf is calling for Rep. Boyle's resignation. 
  • Gov. Wolf today reminded survivors of the remnants of Hurricane Ida that they can access federal, state, and local resources to help in their recovery at Disaster Recovery Centers. These centers are open in six counties, with DRCs to become available in Bedford and Northampton counties soon. 
  • The Sweetest Place on Earth will be in the spotlight tonight on the Food Network. Chocolate Meltdown: Hershey's After Dark is a new four-episode series in which pastry chefs create mind-bending chocolate showpieces. It debuts at 10 p.m. Monday, September 27.

September 24
​September 23
  • Pa. Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin) has been barred from attending private Senate GOP meetings, marking the latest escalation in his public feud with Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman. Sen. Mastriano had been previously stripped of his chairmanship and staff over the summer. 
  • The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) today announced that interim President & CEO Ken Greene will drop the 'interim' and become AAHOA's new president & CEO. 
  • Last night, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized Pfizer booster shots for seniors and other high-risk Americans, paving the way for third doses to be offered as early as the end of the week. 
  • All PRLA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Membership on Tuesday, November 9. Held in conjunction with the PRLA Annual Meeting, the purpose is to elect the 2022 board of directors. The PRLA will be picking up 50% of the registration fee for members attending the full conference. REGISTER
  • The Wage & Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor is responsible for ensuring compliance with various regulations relating to topics such as minimum wage, record keeping, and child labor laws—just to name a few. The Division offers news resources for employers, such as posters, fact sheets, compliance toolkits, and more. WORKPLACE POSTERS | FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT POSTER
  • New hiring reporting is a crucial onboarding step for all of your new hires. Learn what is required and how to perform this onboarding step properly with this HR Tidbit from PRLA's preferred partner FocusHRO. 
  • According to survey data from the Morning Consult, the comfort of U.S. adults with dining out has remained steady at 64%. However, roughly 1 in 4 said they feel safe on an international flight. 
  • ServSafe has resources operators can use to train employees tasked with enforcing indoor mask/vaccination mandates. ServSafe Conflict De-escalation (free) and Unconscious Bias courses help prepare teams for the types of behaviors they may encounter. 
  • The PRLA team extends their condolences to the family and friends of Christopher Ribarchak, the GM of Pittsburgh's Franklin Inn Mexican Restaurant, who passed away last week after a long illness. 

September 22
September 21
  • The U.S. federal government announced that it will open travel for vaccinated international travelers in early November, including those that are currently impacted by the U.S. travel ban. Travelers will need to show proof that they’re vaccinated prior to boarding any US-bound planed. A COVID-19 test will also still be required within three days of departure and proof of negative results must be shown. 
  • State Rep. Dan Moul today introduced HB 1894, which, if passed, would require Pennsylvania school districts to begin their school year after Labor Day. 
  • The Pa. Senate Health and Human Services Committee today hosted a hearing on SB 749, which would amend Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Act to provide more clarity on the treatment and use of medical cannabis in the workplace. The bill will remain in the Health and Human Services Committee until further action is taken.
  • Week 4 of National Food Safety Month is underway and this week's theme of "Know Safe & Show Safe"  focuses on cleaning and sanitizing your operations. For free resources that get your team in the know, visit FoodSafetyFocus.com.
  • Spotlight PA today reported that Pa. Rep. Kevin Boyle has been stripped of his committee chairmanship and has had his access to the Capitol limited in a rare move by Democratic leadership. 
  • The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to House Ways & Means Committee leaders to outline its opposition to Congressional efforts to increase corporate and individual taxes. 
  • Whether you call it a sub, hero, or hoagie, a Philly favorite is making its way to Harrisburg--Primo Hoagies recently announced that it will soon open a location in Harrisburg as part of a nationwide expansion.

September 20
  • AmusementTODAY's Golden Ticket awards were announced last week and several Pennsylvania amusement parks were recognized across multiple categories. Congratulations to:
    • Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg) for being ranked the 4th best park in the world; 1st for best food of 2021; and 2nd for best overall guest experience. Fun Fact: The Golden Tickets retired the best carousel after Knoebels won it 20 times in a row!
    • Hersheypark for being ranked 2nd for best new rollercoaster of 2021 (Candymonium); and 5th for best dark ride (Reese's Cupfusion)
    • Pa. nabbed 3 of the top five spots for the best family park of 2021
      • Dutch Wonderland (Lancaster)—1st
      • Idlewild & Soakzone (Ligonier)—3rd
      • Sesame Place (Langhorne)—5th
    • Waldameer Park & Water World's (Erie) Rally Racer was ranked the 5th best new water park ride of 2021
  • The Pa. House and Senate returned to session today, with mapmaking, elections, and emergency powers on their fall to-do lists.  
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Cherelle Parker on Friday introduced Bill No. 210670, which permanently caps what third-party delivery services can charge food service establishments in Philadelphia. The bill would require third-party delivery platforms to charge no more than 10% for delivery services and no more than 5% for marketing services.
  • Last week, PABBI sent a letter to the Pa. House Committee on Tourism & Recreational Development in support of HB 976, which would level the playing field between short-term rental hosts and professional bed and breakfast owners by aiding in the collection of county hotel taxes. 
  • Daycares around the country now have a harder time hiring than restaurants—the rippling effect of the childcare employment crisis on the U.S. economy. 
  • Tired of rising food costs? PRLA's manufacturer rebate program helps maximize your cost savings while minimizing your time. As Q3 2021 comes to a close, enroll today to take advantage of this program. LEARN MORE
  • Philadelphia is preparing for its first large convention in over 18 months, as it looks to welcome the Natural Products East Expo Sept. 23-25. More than 12,000 attendees are expected at the Expo. 

September 17
  • Bloomberg Businessweek takes a look inside the brutal realities of supply chain hell brought on by the pandemic, a labor shortage, and huge demand to get goods to your front door.  
  • According to U.S. Census data released Thursday, restaurant sales were flat in August. Foodservice and drinking places generated just under $72 billion in sales in August, roughly the same level as in July but up 32% from the same month last year. 
  • Tourists assault a NYC restaurant hostess after she questions their proof of vaccination. 
  • The Butler County CareerLink will be hosting a job fair for four area employers every Friday beginning October 1, 2021. If your business is located in Butler County and you would like to participate, please contact Norm Magliocca at (724) 431-4009.
  • Celebrate "Ask a Stupid Question Day" with the Pittsburgh Office of Nightime Economy on September 30. Check out the event flyer for details. 
  • The National Restaurant Association's latest 90-second update is out, covering replenishing RRF, potential business tax increases, and a summary of a potential national vaccine/testing mandate.
  • ICYMI: The PLCB yesterday emailed licensees to announce a 2-bottle purchase limit on 43 items, which takes effect on September 17. The limits were instituted due to sustained supply chain disruptions and apply to retail and licensee purchases in stores, online, or at LSCs. BOTTLE LIMIT LIST
  • The Hospitality Assistance Response of Pennsylvania (HARP) relief fund has reopened its grant application with broader criteria. HARP now offers one-time grants to any frontline Pennsylvania hospitality worker who experiences unexpected financial hardship. 

​September 16
September 15
  • A Wolf administration program that allowed Pennsylvania businesses to seek waivers to remain open in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was deeply flawed, using criteria that shifted constantly and giving inconsistent and subjective answers to business owners struggling to stay afloat, according to the state’s chief fiscal watchdog, Auditor General Timothy DeFoor. 
  • The hotel industry is projected to end 2021 down more than $59 billion in business travel revenue compared to 2019, according to a new report released today by the American Hotel & Lodging Association and Kalibri Labs. That comes after losing nearly $49 billion in business travel revenue in 2020. The state-by-state data indicated that Pennsylvania hotels are projected to end 2021 down 67.9% compared to 2019. The results underscore the need for targeted federal relief, such as the Save Hotel Jobs Act.
  • Today is the last day to complete the National Restaurant Association's latest coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. TAKE SURVEY
  • Representatives from the National Restaurant Association were on a call last week with senior OSHA officials regarding the Administration's recently announced vaccine/testing mandate. The Association sent a memo to its restaurant allies summarizing the call and outlining the next steps.  
  • Arizona today became the first state to sue the Biden Administration over the COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Meanwhile, a federal judge temporarily blocked the state of New York from forcing medical workers to be vaccinated after a group of health care workers sued and gave the state until Sept. 22 to respond to the lawsuit in federal courts.
  • Eater.com takes an in-depth look at the DoorDash lawsuit against New York City over a new law that would require it to share customer data with restaurants. 
  • If you missed today's webinar on ADA website compliance, watch it on-demand here.
  • Consumer prices increased in August at the slowest rate in seven months, offering a sign that the rapid inflation seen so far this year could be easing, but some economists see upward pressures on prices persisting without a shift in federal policy. However, restaurant menu prices continue to soar due to rising food and labor costs. 

September 14
  • Tomorrow is the last day to complete the National Restaurant Association's latest coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding and we need at least 30 responses from Pennsylvania operators to ensure state-specific results. TAKE SURVEY
  • Victims of Hurricane Ida in parts of Pennsylvania now have until Jan. 3, 2022, to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments, the Internal Revenue Service announced today.
  • Amtrak is considering three new routes in eastern Pennsylvania, which could service nearly 1.3 million riders annually. Service could start as soon as three years after funding is secured. 
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer published some helpful tips and strategies for small businesses looking for new employees. 
  • The push for replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund continues. Simply click on the Action Alert to let your congressperson know how important replenishment is for your business. 
  • PRLA's Lodging & Tourism Committee continues to solicit feedback on the potential legislation to enable Tourism Improvement District designations in Pennsylvania counties. If you operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please take this three-question survey to let us know your opinion.   
  • Congratulations to three resorts in Pa. that made it in Travel + Leisure's top-10 list of Mid-Atlantic resorts as part of the magazine's "World's Best Awards" series. Nemacolin in Farmington, Omni Bedford Springs Resort, and the Hotel Hershey all made the list. 
  • Get your complimentary 2021 State of the Industry Mid-Year Update report from the National Restaurant Association today. The supplemental report illustrates the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry. 
  • There are still a few tickets remaining for tomorrow's Better Together — The Great Philly Wine & Cheese Pairing at Banca by DiBruno Bros. This Philadelphia Chapter event benefits the PRLA Educational Foundation and HARP Relief Fund. MORE DETAILS

September 13
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association for another coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. We need at least 30 responses from Pennsylvania operators to ensure state-specific results, which we use for our advocacy and media outreach. TAKE SURVEY
  • Last week, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced new flexibilities and enhancements for the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This program provides 30-year loans with fixed interest rates of 3.75% for eligible businesses. Our national association partners have worked with the SBA to advocate for:
    • Larger loan amounts, from $500,000 to $2 million
    • More flexibility with EIDL funds, including the ability to pay off private commercial loans or credit card debt
    • Updated affiliation standards
  • The National Restaurant Association updated its EIDL Fact Sheet to reflect the new changes and will be hosting a webinar with the SBA on Wed., September 15 at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • Week 3 of National Food Safety Month covers cleaning and sanitizing dishes. Visit FoodSafetyFocus.com to take the guesswork out of maintaining a clean and safe kitchen and free weekly resources that get your team in the know. Tune in on Thursday, Sept. 30 at 2 p.m. for a webinar presented by Ecolab on creating and implementing a cleaning program in your establishment. 
  • Gov. Wolf today withdrew his nominee to be Pennsylvania's top elections official, accusing state Senate Republicans of turning the confirmation process into a partisan charade. 
  • FDA experts among groups opposing U.S. booster shot plan.

September 10
  • Last night, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced new flexibilities and enhancements for the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This program provides 30-year loans with fixed interest rates of 3.75% for eligible businesses. Our national association partners have worked with the SBA to advocate for:
    • Larger loan amounts, from $500,000 to $2 million
    • More flexibility with EIDL funds, including the ability to pay off private commercial loans or credit card debt
    • Updated affiliation standards
  • The National Restaurant Association updated its EIDL Fact Sheet to reflect the new changes and will be hosting a webinar with the SBA on Wed., September 15 at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • We know many of you have questions regarding the announcement from the Biden administration yesterday regarding vaccination and testing. None of these items are taking effect in the near future and with court challenges, may not take effect at all. Once guidance is released we will make sure to provide it via the daily update. 
  • The three major delivery services on Thursday sued New York City over its permanent delivery fee cap. 
  • A new survey by the Independent Restaurant Coalition found that 82% of its members think they will have to close unless the RRF is replenished.  We encourage you to keep pressing your elected officials in Washington, D.C. to support the replenishment of the RRF by calling their offices directly (House / Senate) or sending a message via the National Restaurant Association's Action Alert. 
  • Federal unemployment benefits expired this week without pushback from the Biden Administration. 
  • ICYMI: PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association for another coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. We need at least 30 responses from Pennsylvania operators to ensure state-specific results, which we use for our advocacy and media outreach. TAKE SURVEY
  • Today is the last day for hotel operators to take PRLA's Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs) survey. Hotel owners/operators should review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey.

​September 9
  • President Biden is giving a speech at 5 p.m. today on the Administration's efforts to address COVID-19 from a workplace and economic perspective. He is expected to direct the Department of Labor and OSHA to issue an "expedited" Emergency Temporary Standard to require any workplace with 100+ employees to require vaccination or weekly testing of employees. Paid time off will be mandated for employees who need to leave to get vaccinated and handle any side effects. This mandate will apply to all employers regardless of industry or sector. However, the timing to implement this mandate remains to be determined but is unlikely to be immediate, as the National Restaurant Association expects court challenges to the Emergency Temporary Standard.
  • The Health & Human Services Committee of the Allegheny County Council unanimously endorsed a proposal to require paid sick time at workplaces across the county. 
  • Metro Philly published an article today on the industry's push to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). We encourage you to keep pressing your elected officials in Washington, D.C. to support the replenishment of the RRF by calling their offices directly (House / Senate) or sending a message via the National Restaurant Association's Action Alert. 
  • In a new study, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors says that U.S. economic activity has 'shifted down' in July and August due to a growing concern of the delta variant. They acknowledged a recession of eating out and travel and tourism in some parts of the country. 
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association for another coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. We need at least 30 responses from Pennsylvania operators to ensure state-specific results, which we use for our advocacy and media outreach. TAKE SURVEY
  • PRLA is surveying hotel owners and operators on their interest in statewide legislation that would enable counties to form Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs). If you own/operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey. 

September 8
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association for another coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. We need at least 30 responses from Pennsylvania operators to ensure state-specific results, which we use for our advocacy and media outreach. TAKE SURVEY
  • On today's Industry Update webinar, Melissa Bova discussed the status and outlooks for RRF replenishment and urged participants to keep the pressure up in Pennsylvania. If you couldn't join us live, you can catch up on-demand here.
  • OpenTable added a host of new features after hearing from restaurants that they needed help enforcing vaccine policies. 
  • A recent Yahoo Finance piece explored why franchises are faring as badly as small restaurants amid the delta variant surge. More than 20,000 franchisees nationwide closed in 2020, representing a loss of approximately 940,000 jobs. 
  • The Senate Community, Economic & Recreational Development Committee held a public hearing this morning on SB 797 (Robinson—R, Allegheny), which would establish a Tourism Improvement District (TID) for Allegheny County, and included testimony by PRLA Western Chapter President Mike Mitcham.  WATCH THE RECORDING
  • PRLA is surveying hotel owners and operators on their interest in statewide legislation that would enable counties to form Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs). If you own/operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey. 
  • The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will return in full form to New York City's streets this year, with COVID-19 protocols in place.

September 7
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association for another coronavirus impact survey. These surveys collect critical data for our advocacy efforts, especially now as we push for RRF replenishment funding. Your feedback is valuable; please complete the survey by Sept. 15. TAKE SURVEY
  • PRLA board member and Tria founder, Jon Myerow, today emphasized the need to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) in an op-ed published by the Philadelphia Inquirer. 
  • The Private Event Professionals of Pennsylvania (PEPP) will be hosting a Zoom discussion at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 9 to discuss the status of the RRF replenishment efforts and ways in which Pa. operators can advocate for this cause. No registration is required; simply click here at 4 p.m. on Sept. 9 to join the call. 
  • The City of Philadelphia's plastic bag ban takes effect on October 1. The city will be using the period of October 1, 2021, through March 31, 2022, as an educational period where enforcement agencies will issue warnings to businesses still using prohibited bags. Enforcement officially begins on April 1, 2022. 
  • The Senate Community, Economic & Recreational Development Committee is having a public hearing tomorrow, Sept. 8 on SB 797 (Robinson—R, Allegheny) which would establish a Tourism Improvement District (TID) for Allegheny County. STREAM IT LIVE
  • PRLA is surveying hotel owners and operators on their interest in statewide legislation that would enable counties to form Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs). If you own/operate a hotel in Pennsylvania, please review the legislation summary and take this 3-question TID survey. 

September 3
  • The City of Philadelphia is still actively responding to storm damage and flooding from Hurricane Ida. Residents and businesses can find updates and helpful resources, including how to report damages and other issues HERE.
  • Yesterday, PRLA distributed a press release regarding our joint effort with the National Restaurant Association and 50 other state restaurant association partners urging Congress to complete the mission of the RRF and provide adequate funds to replenish the program and offer relief for the applications still pending.
  • According to HotStats, global hotel performance is improving month-over-month. HotStats reports that the United States continues to see a climb in revenue, with U.S. RevPAR in July 2021 more than $20 higher than the previous month, and now more than 1,000 percent higher than where it was in April 2020.
  • The Philadelphia Office of Sustainability just launched a new pilot program called the Food Waste Business Challenge, in partnership with the Center for EcoTechnology. The Food Waste Business Challenge is a new free opportunity for Philadelphia food businesses to engage one-on-one with the City to tackle food waste within their own operations and inform the City’s broader food waste strategy. Food businesses, from takeaway and fast-casual eateries to full-service restaurants, can apply. The Challenge will select 10-18 Philadelphia businesses to pursue new wasted food prevention and recycling programs over a period of about 6 months.
  • The PRLA office will be closed this Monday, September 6th for Labor Day. The Daily Update will return on Tuesday, September 7th. Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
September 2
  • The City of Philadelphia has a webpage of rolling updates, helpful links and resources, FAQs, and how to report issues for businesses and residents in the aftermath of Storm Ida. Surrounding counties are also assessing the damage, according to the Philadelphia Business Journal. 
  • Morning Consult continues tracking public sentiment on normal activities like dining out, travel, entertainment, and more. The gap between comfort with outdoor dining versus indoor dining increased for the fifth consecutive week, as 71% of adults feel okay about eating outdoors, while 60% said they are okay eating indoors. The percentage of adults who are comfortable with attending sporting events, going to the movies, and taking a vacation continues to decline. 
  • Longtime Philadelphia hospitality industry member Kristina Burke has been chosen as one of the 2021 Be Well Philly Health Hero semi-finalists! We're honored that Kristina has chosen to support Hospitality Assistance Response of PA (HARP), a 501c3 fund started by PRLA during the pandemic last year to provide emergency funding to hospitality industry workers facing hardships. We're proud to make HARP a permanent part of our organization's efforts to support the industry. How can you help? Vote for Kristina once a day every day through 9/30 to win $15,000 to donate to HARP! 
  • According to WESA 90.5, Pittsburgh restaurants that require COVID-19 vaccinations have reported that business is good. 
  • The National Restaurant Association released new national consumer confidence survey findings on the impact of the delta variant to urge the swift replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Pennsylvania has more than 6,414 pending applications that total more than $1.53 billion in stabilization funding that would be addressed by the $60 billion proposed replenishment bills. Take action today to add your voice in requesting RRF replenishment.
  • ICYMI: Through a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation, PRLA has partnered with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Philadelphia restaurants and hotels and their employees. Through this program, PRLA will reimburse employees up to $60 for a COVID-19 test. LEARN MORE

September 1
  • Gov. Wolf today signed a proclamation of disaster emergency in anticipation of significant rainfall and widespread flooding associated with the remnants of hurricane Ida. Some areas in Pennsylvania could see as much as 7 inches of rain. Stay safe and don't drive through standing water.
  • The Pa. House Commerce Committee today hosted a public hearing on the workforce shortage facing businesses in the commonwealth. You can watch the recording here.
  • Did you know that September is National Food Safety Month? Each week, we will collaborate with ServSafe to provide focused educational materials for the foodservice industry including webinars, blog posts, and more.
  • Full FDA approval of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine should motivate hesitant employers to mandate vaccinations. Furthermore, The Hill is reporting that companies are considering more aggressive alternatives to vaccine mandates after Delta Air Lines announced last week that it would implement a $200 monthly surcharge on unvaccinated employees enrolled in the company's health plan. 
  •  According to Reuters, some U.S. fast-food restaurants are closing indoor seating areas or limiting hours of operation because of the spread of the Delta variant of COVID-19. 
  • PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self-nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE

August 31
  • The National Restaurant Association today announced that CEO Tom Bené has resigned to take over as the chief executive of Breakthru Beverage Group, an alcohol wholesaler. Marvin Irby, the association's chief financial officer and chief people officer, will serve as interim CEO. 
  • Gov. Wolf today announced that masks will be required in all Pennsylvania public and private schools, as well as child care facilities. The Department of Health order will take effect on Tuesday, September 7. All students, teachers, and staff will be required to wear masks while inside, regardless of vaccination status. 
  • The National Restaurant Association released the Mid-Year State of the Industry Update, as a supplement to the annual report. The report is available to you at no cost here. Key findings include:
    • Industry food and beverage sales are projected to total $789 billion in 2021 (up 19.7% from 2020)
    • Eating and drinking places are still down nearly 1 million jobs nationwide while the restaurants and accommodations sector has one of the highest levels of unfilled job openings of any industry. 
  • Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald has introduced a new paid sick leave bill that would provide workers who don't already have adequate paid sick time off in Allegheny County some paid sick days. 
  • A new national survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Hotel & Lodging Association found that 67% of business travelers are planning to take fewer trips amid rising COVID-19 cases. 
  • PennLive.com checked in with central Pa. restaurant operators to discuss the impact of rising COVID-19 cases rise, worker shortages, and rising food prices. Meanwhile, the Times Leader did the same with operators in northeast Pa. 
  • The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review talked to restaurant operators in western Pa. who have turned to hiring 14- and 15-year-olds to address staffing shortages in their area.   
  • Today is the last call for nominations for the 2021 Spirit of Hospitality Awards. Each year, PRLA honors individuals and organizations for their dedication, service, community involvement, and achievements in Pa.'s hospitality and tourism industry. Submit a nomination today!
  • Congratulations to the Historic Hotel Bethlehem on being named the #1 Best Historic Hotel in the Country by USA Today for its 10Best 2021 Readers Choice Awards. 
  • We at PRLA express our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mary Metz, who passed away last week at age 72. Mary was the wife of John Metz, founder of Metz Culinary Management.

August 30
  • The City of Chicago has sued food delivery services DoorDash and Grubhub for allegedly using deceptive and unfair tactics that hurt restaurants during the coronavirus pandemic. The two lawsuits accuse the services of misconduct, including falsely advertising delivery services for restaurants without their consent, charging misleading fees to customers, and hiding the costs that they added to a meal. 
  • Politico.com reported last week that a coalition of trade groups representing various corners of the hospitality industry, including the National Restaurant Association, AHLA, and AAHOA, sent a letter to the SBA pushing for various expansions to the EIDL program. Odds are improving that the Biden Administration will finally unveil a plan within the month that makes these changes to the EIDL program. 
  • News broke this afternoon that Comcast Spectacor is selling its concessions and hospitality unit, Spectra, to Oak View Group. The deal requires regulatory approval.  Philadelphia Business Journal (subscription required) | Venuesnow.com (free)
  • State Sens. Nikil Saval and Judy Schwank today announced they plan to introduce legislation supporting Gov. Wolf's call for mask mandates in Pa. schools. Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman and House Speaker Bryan Cutler recently rejected the Governor’s request for the General Assembly to reconvene and approve a statewide requirement for masks in schools. 
  • Meanwhile state Sens. Mastriano and Hutchinson today announced that they plan to introduce legislation that will be introducing legislation to ensure workers who are terminated or forced to resign by their employers for refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination are not disqualified from UC benefits.  
  • The European Union on Monday removed the United States from the list of safe countries for unnecessary travel because of rising coronavirus infections. The guidance is non-binding and travelers from the US should expect different rules across Europe. 
  • American Airlines announced they are resuming nonstop service from the Philadelphia International Airport to Worcester, Massachusetts, which could potentially signal an increase in travel demand following setbacks resulting from the pandemic. 
  • The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport received $1,656,717 from the US Department of Transportation to extend its taxiway. This is expected to help business and tourism in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

August 27
August 26
  • The AP reported yesterday afternoon that Gov. Wolf sent a letter to Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman and House Speaker Bryan Cutler asking them to call lawmakers back to Harrisburg to work on a bill to order schools and child care facilities to require masks in classrooms. Today, Sen. Corman and Rep. Cutler responded. 
  • For the fourth week in a row, the Morning Consult sentiment tracker found that consumers are more comfortable eating outdoors than indoors by a 10-point margin, and takeout remains the most popular option for ordering food. It also found that the public's comfort with going on vacation is down 11 points since the Fourth of July.
  • In honor of National Food Safety Month which kicks off this September, the National Restaurant Association is hosting a webinar on the foundations of cleaning and sanitizing your restaurant on Thursday, Sept. 2 at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • Many ghost kitchens are run by large companies making big bets on delivery being the future of the restaurant industry. 
  • From higher wages to a four-day workweek to new kitchen models, restaurants get creative to attract and keep workers.
  • On yesterday's Industry Update webinar, Melissa Bova discussed your options should UC claimants "ghost" job interviews or take other actions to specifically discourage employers from hiring them. The Department of Labor has indicated such actions can already be considered the equivalent of refusing work AND they train their examiners as such. As we reported yesterday, Rep. Labs has circulated a co-sponsorship memo about legislation clarifying the language of the UC law on this point. In the meantime, if you are struggling with claimants who skip interviews or take other actions to discourage their hire, you can report those individuals to UC via this form. 
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association released new national consumer confidence survey findings on the impact of the delta variant to urge the swift replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Pennsylvania has more than 6,414 pending applications that total more than $1.53 billion in stabilization funding that would be addressed by the $60 billion proposed replenishment bills. Take action today to add your voice in requesting RRF replenishment.

August 25
  • Yesterday, the PRLA, National Restaurant Association, and 50 other state restaurant associations sent a letter to Congressional leadership sharing new national consumer confidence survey findings and urging swift replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Pennsylvania has more than 6,414 pending applications that total more than $1.53 billion in stabilization funding that would be addressed by the $60 billion proposed replenishment bills. Take action today to add your voice in requesting RRF replenishment.
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, she discussed the RRF action alert in-depth and the steps PRLA will be taking to push for the fund's replenishment. You can watch the session on-demand here. 
  • She also discussed what happens when UC claimants "ghost" job interviews or take other actions to specifically discourage employers from hiring them. The Department of Labor has indicated such actions can already be considered the equivalent of refusing work AND they train their examiners as such. As we reported yesterday, Rep. Labs has circulated a co-sponsorship memo about legislation clarifying the language of the UC law on this point. In the meantime, if you are struggling with claimants who skip interviews or take other actions to discourage their hire, you can report those individuals to UC via this form. 
  • Pennsylvania's opioid disaster declaration, which was initiated in January 2018, expires today after the Republican-controlled General Assembly declined to renew it earlier this month.
  • Delta Air Lines today announced that it will charge employees on the company health plan $200/month if they fail to get vaccinated against COVID-19. 
  • Hawaii Governor David Ige urged tourists to reconsider visiting the islands amid a surge in COVID-19 cases. Restaurant capacities are still restricted and access to rental cars is limited. 
  • The AP reported this afternoon that Gov. Wolf sent a letter to Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman and House Speaker Bryan Cutler asking them to call lawmakers back to Harrisburg to work on a bill to order schools and child care facilities to require masks in classrooms. 
  • PRLA's Philadelphia Chapter invites you to an evening of wine & cheese on September 15 at the beautiful BANCA by Di Bruno Bros. to benefit the PRLA Scholarship Fund and HARP grant program. Your ticket includes expertly selected wine & cheese pairings, hors d'oeuvres, the bar stocked with beverages from Victory Beer, New Liberty Distillery, and an opportunity to participate in our silent auction. Get Tickets

August 24
  • The PRLA, National Restaurant Association, and 50 other state restaurant associations sent a letter to Congressional leadership sharing new national consumer confidence survey findings and urging swift replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Pennsylvania has more than 6,414 pending applications that total more than $1.53 billion in stabilization funding that would be addressed by the $60 billion proposed replenishment bills. Take action today to add your voice in requesting RRF replenishment.
  • OpenTable has integrated CLEAR's digital vaccine card for restaurants requiring proof of vaccination to help restaurants streamline vaccination checks. 
  • Today was the first-ever Pittsburgh Hospitality Workforce Celebration Day event to honor the local hospitality community at Allegheny Overlook Park. 
  • On Monday, state Sen. Doug Mastriano was stripped of his committee chairmanship following a feud with GOP leadership over an election review. Sen. Mastriano (R-Franklin) was removed as chairman of the Senate Intergovernmental Committee and replaced by Sen. Cris Dush (R-Jefferson).
  • The labor shortage is affecting operators around the country as operators are having to reduce hours, close locations, discontinue services, and deal with supply chain issues. State Rep. Lab (R, Bucks) will be introducing legislation that clarifies aspects of the unemployment law, such as not showing up for a job interview qualifies as a violation of unemployment. 
  • Make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through our Level Up multimedia industry workforce campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Part of Level Up includes profiles of current industry employees across our social media channels, telling their stories of how and why they chose the hospitality industry. Check out some of our most recent profiles here and here and here. Share this form with any employee who should be featured in one of our Level Up posts.

August 23
  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave full approval to Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine on Monday. The FDA licensure doesn't cover booster doses as the agency will decide that separately. Find a free COVID-19 vaccination clinic near you.
  • VisitPITTSBURGH, PRLA Western Chapter, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Greater Pittsburgh Hotel Association, and Partner4Work, are launching the first-ever Pittsburgh Hospitality Workforce Celebration Day on Tuesday, August 24, starting at 3 p.m. This event will honor and celebrate the industry's workforce and highlight the numerous opportunities for employment and career growth. 
  • On Friday, the Pa. Office of Administration announced that all Pennsylvania state employees and state contractors under Gov. Wolf's jurisdiction are required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status, effective today.
  • Pennsylvania's unemployment rate declined to 6.6% in July, though it remains well above the national rate of 5.4%. Leisure and hospitality had the largest volume of job gains (+16,200) but it still remains below its pre-pandemic levels. 
  • Over the weekend, CNN Business reporter Danielle Wiener-Bronner published an article about how the delta variant is impacting restaurants. According to the Census Bureau sales at bars and restaurants grew 1.7% from June to July, which is slower than the May to June sales growth of 2.4%. 
  • A judge ruled on Friday that a California law that defines app-based drivers as independent contractors is unconstitutional because it limits the legislature's power to extend workers' compensation rights to app-based drivers. 
  • Congratulations to the PRLA Central Chapter, the American Culinary Federation Harrisburg Chapter, and the Brewers of Pennsylvania for a successful PA Flavor 2021 event! 

August 20
  • A small group of NYC restaurateurs has filed a lawsuit that challenges the legality of the city's vaccination mandate for restaurant guests and staff. 
  • If you're heading to Harrisburg for PA Flavor on 8/21, you can get your free COVID-19 vaccine while you're there. 15toknow.com will be administering the Pfizer vaccine from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Pre-registration is available but walk-ins are welcome. 
  • PRLA Western Chapter, VisitPITTSBURGH, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Greater Pittsburgh Hotel Association, and Partner4Work are joining together to host the first-ever Pittsburgh Hospitality Workforce Celebration Day on Tuesday, Aug. 24 from 3-4:30 p.m. at Allegheny Overlook Pop-Up Park. 
  • PRLA’s Wilmer S. Lapp Community Service Award celebrates a hospitality industry business that has made significant and noteworthy contributions to the industry and community at the local or state levels. Know a business that is always giving back? Nominate them by September 1 at www.prla.org/prlaawards.
  • Calling all Pennsylvania travel & tourism industry professionals! Join us as we 'Get Back on the Road' for two days of insightful and meaningful content and networking at the Pennsylvania Tourism Summit in Harrisburg on October 19-21, 2021. This in-person event will bring together all sectors of Pennsylvania's travel and tourism industry to share lessons learned over the past year, talk tourism promotion best practices, and where the industry is headed. Check out our full schedule and register at: www.prla.org/pats

​August 19
  • The FAA today announced fines against 34 passengers, totaling more than $500,000, as part of its "Zero Tolerance" campaign. To date, fines against unruly passengers have exceeded $1 million.  
  • Philly Mag published a helpful guide outlining everything you need to know about Philadelphia's plastic-bag ban. While the ban is in effect, it's a slow rollout with enforcement not starting until April 2022.
  • Morning Consult is tracking how safe Americans feel dining out at restaurants in light of the pandemic. After dropping for several weeks, Americans' comfort with dining out ticked up by a point but still lags behind July's high numbers. 
  • Retaining skilled employees is vital to the success of a business. PRLA partner FocusHRO provides tips to increase retention in this edition of HR Tidbit. 
  • New research from Motel 6 reveals that as U.S. adults are hitting the roads, they will be doing so with their pets. 
  • PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self-nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE

August 18
  • The Independent Restaurant Owners Association today filed a lawsuit against NYC Mayor de Blasio over the city's vaccine mandate and is seeking an injunction. READ MORE (NY Times)
  • RestaurantBusinessOnline.com yesterday reported that restaurant guests and employees in Chicago will be required to wear facemasks again starting Friday, Aug. 20, and civic officials warned further restrictions may follow if the mandate fails to temper a spike in new COVID-19 cases. 
  • At today's Allegheny County press conference, county officials were asked if they were considering a vaccine or mask mandate. They said not at this time because they see many businesses working proactively in the county to curb the spread of COVID. However, they will continue monitoring cases. 
  • On Tuesday, the TSA extended the current federal requirement that Americans wear masks on public transportation through January 18, 2022. 
  • Grubhub will change how it handles phone calls to restaurants next week following controversy over its current system. Starting Aug. 23, Grubhub will use a call center staffed by its own employees to field some incoming calls.
  • PRLA Western Chapter has partnered with VisitPITTSBURGH, Greater Pittsburgh Hospitality Association, Partner4Work, and Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership to honor the local hospitality community with the first-ever Pittsburgh Hospitality Workforce Celebration Day on Tuesday, Aug. 24. 
  • Thank you to all the golfers, sponsors, and friends who joined the PRLA Lancaster Chapter at Foxchase Golf Club on Monday for the chapter's annual Gala on the Greens, which benefited the PRLAEF Scholarship Fund and the HARP grant program. 
  • The Pa. Department of Health today announced that as of Aug. 17, Pennsylvania ranks 5th among all 50 states for total vaccine doses administered with 64.5% of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older fully vaccinated, according to the CDC. PRLA will be hosting a free, pop-up vaccine clinic in conjunction with PA Flavor this Saturday, Aug. 21 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the PA Farm Show Complex. 
  • PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self-nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE

August 17
  • The U.S. Commerce Department today reported that retail sales fell by 1.1% in July, indicating that consumers are pulling back on spending. Wall Street analysts had expected only a 0.3% drop.
  • The National Park Service announced Monday that it is immediately enforcing mask rules. Visitors, employees, and contractors are now required to wear a mask inside all NPS buildings and even in crowded outdoor spots, regardless of vaccination status or community transmission levels.  
  • CBS News is reporting that travelers are canceling trips as COVID numbers rise. An economist with the travel app Hopper says summer flight demand has flattened from pandemic highs, which is leading to lower prices. 
  • Asking for proof of vaccination takes careful handling which is why the National Restaurant Association will be holding a webinar on the topic this Thursday, August 19 at 10 a.m. Register today and read their tips on how to prepare for the legal and logistical ramifications of proof of vaccination policy. 
  • The National Restaurant Association is also holding two webinars on recruiting and hiring:
    • Aug. 18 at 2 p.m. | Helping your business fix your hiring woes presented by Heartland | REGISTER
    • Aug. 24 at 2 p.m. | Chick-fil-A provides secret sauce on recruitment and retention | REGISTER

August 16
  • Menu prices make their biggest monthly jump since 1981 with quick-service restaurants taking the largest price hike of all segments, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
  • The latest CBRE Hotels Advisory US Hotel Update showed that the hotel sector posted record performance gains in Q2 compared with a year ago; however, despite this year-over-year improvement, the hotel sector's performance metrics remain below pre-pandemic levels. 
  • As state and local mandates requiring proof of vaccination and/or face coverings to dine indoors increase, the National Restaurant Association and experts from the Chicago Medical Society are hosting a webinar on Thursday, August 19 at 10 a.m. to discuss the science behind the effectiveness of these precautions. REGISTER
  • The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Editorial Board today published an op-ed in support of the state conducting a review and assessment of how it handled the pandemic."Regardless of the decisions by federal officials not to investigate, Gov. Tom Wolf and state lawmakers owe it to Pennsylvania residents to analyze how things were handled." 
  • The Wolf Administration today announced two initiatives directed at vaccine providers to support K-12 schools and institutions of higher education during the 2021-22 school year, effective immediately. 
    1. Vaccine providers must coordinate and support COVID-19 vaccination clinics at institutions of higher education and K-12 schools, at an institution's request. 
    2. The departments of Health and Education have partnered with Concentric by Ginkgo Bioworks to provide free COVID-19 testing in K-12 schools across the commonwealth during the school year. 
  • New York City's vaccine mandate for indoor dining, fitness facilities, and entertainment venues takes effect today. Full enforcement will begin the week of September 13.
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics around the city this coming weekend and one in Harrisburg at PA Flavor on August 21 at the PA Farm Show Complex. For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly.

August 13
  • The General Services Administration (GSA) announced that it will freeze the FY2022 per diem rates for government travel in the Continental United States (CONUS) at the FY2021 levels (which are based on pre-COVID-19 rates). 
    • The FY2022 CONUS per diem rate is $151: 
      • $96 lodging 
      • $55 meals 
    • AHLA released a statement applauding this action.
  • Philadelphia Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Cheryl Bettigole hosted a COVID-19 press conference this morning at 10 a.m. New updates included:
    • Philadelphia health care workers, as well as college students, faculty and staff, will need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 15. READ MORE
    • Bettigole clarified that in businesses choosing to require vaccination in lieu of universal masking, children under 12 making quick, masked bathroom trips would not be considered violation.
    • If you have an unanswered question about the Philadelphia Health Department's new mandates, you can call this hotline: (215) 685-5488
  • AHLA has been working with Biden Administration and Small Business Administration officials to expand and improve SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for the hotel industry. Learn more about the new and improved program and how to apply here.
  • PRLA's Level Up multimedia campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • Nominations for PRLA's Spirit of Hospitality Awards are due by September 1. Winners will be honored at our annual Awards Gala, taking place this year in Pittsburgh on November 8. View all eight award categories and submit your nomination at www.prla.org/PRLAawards.
  • ICYMI: Check out the latest digital issue of PA Restaurant & Lodging Matters magazine, focusing on solutions and strategies for addressing current staffing challenges.

​August 12
August 11
  • The City of Philadelphia today announced a new mask mandate which takes effect at 12:01 a.m., Thursday, August 12. Philadelphia businesses and institutions must now require all staff and patrons to wear a mask indoors.
    • Businesses and institutions that already require the COVID-19 vaccination for all employees and patrons are exempted from having a masking requirement. 
    • In restaurants that do not require proof of vaccination for everyone (both staff and patrons), masks must be worn by all patrons the entire time while not seated and eating or drinking. 
    • Masks will be required at all non-seated outdoor events with more than 1,000 attendees.
    • PRLA issued a statement in response to this new mandate.
  • PRLA today sent a letter to Gov. Wolf asking him to dedicate all $17 million in federal funds under the Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation Program provided by the American Rescue Plan to the State Tourism Office. 
  • If you missed this morning's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch a recording of the webinar on-demand here. 
  • The Associated Press today reported that a federal appeals court dismissed a judge's ruling that threw out Gov. Wolf's sweeping COVID-19 restrictions, saying the issue is moot because the measures have expired and Pa. voters have since constrained a governor's emergency powers.
  • Restaurants stand to lose an aid option under the Infrastructure Act. The Act, which passed the U.S. Senate, would end the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) on September 30 instead of December 31. 
  • The Pa. Liquor Code requires newly approved managers to complete RAMP owner/manager training within 180 days of approval of appointment by the PLCB. 
    • Beginning October 1, 2021, the first time an individual enrolls in an owner/manager training, they need to do so in a classroom setting. The individual may take subsequent trainings either in person or online. 
    • The owner/manager training expires after 2 years, meaning the PLCB approved manager must renew owner/manager training every 2 years.
  • OpenTable added COVID-related safety features for restaurant operators and diners, including vaccine requirements and direct messaging between restaurants and consumers. 
  • The National Restaurant Association prepared an article on how to handle asking consumers for proof of vaccination, which addresses the legal and logistical ramifications to enforce the policy. 
  • The National Restaurant Association is now accepting nominations for the 2021 Outstanding Leader in Food Safety Award, sponsored by Ecolab. The deadline to submit a nomination form is August 16.

August 10
  • Gov. Wolf today announced that commonwealth employees in state healthcare facilities and high-risk congregate-care facilities will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by September 7. Individuals who are not vaccinated will be required to undergo weekly COVID-19 testing. 
  • We are hearing that the City of Philadelphia will be making an announcement tomorrow at 11 a.m. that would make businesses require vaccines for all customers/employees OR, if the business does not adopt that policy, to require masks for all customers and employees regardless of vaccination status. This is indoor only. The details are not confirmed or official at the time of this writing but PRLA will be issuing an alert to our Philadelphia members with the specifics as soon as they are available. 
  • PRLA's Political Action Committee (PAC) is how our industry supports elected officials and candidates who have supported us over the last 17 months. Please consider making a personal donation to the PAC to actively join the fight to protect your business and our industry. We thank those of you who have supported the PAC this year.
  • According to RestaurantBusinessOnline.com, about 9 out of 10 restaurateurs are worried the delta strain will derail the industry's comeback, with the fear particularly strong in states that were among the hardest hit during 2020. 
  • The family of Adriana Moreno-Sanchez, a server at Philadelphia's Steak 48, has established a GoFundMe for her sons after she was tragically killed by a driver under the influence while walking home from work last month. 
  • PA CareerLink is holding a statewide job fair and training workshops on PA CareerLink Day (August 12). LEARN MORE
  • New York Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced he would resign after an investigation found he sexually harassed 11 women. 

August 9
  • Over the weekend, a bipartisan group of Senators offered a unanimous consent request to restore RRF funding at $48 billion, which would cover all outstanding RRF applicants. There was an objection to the unanimous consent motion, blocking the measure from passing. While it was a long shot to pass, the action served the critical purpose of drawing continued attention to the importance of replenishing the RRF. 
  • The Philadelphia Commerce Department has partnered with StreetBoxPHL to gather information and learn more about restaurant operators' experiences carrying out improvements in the public right of way. The deadline to submit feedback is Friday, August 20. SUBMIT FEEDBACK 
  • Last week, the U.S. Economic Development Administration's presented a program overview on the American Rescue Plan funding earmarked for Travel, Tourism, & Outdoor Recreation for building back the American economy. FAQs | Slide Deck
  • AHLA has been working closely with the Small Business Administration to expand and improve the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program by raising the cap on total loan amounts and waiving affiliation rules. AHLA and SBA will be holding a webinar on Wednesday, August 11 at 11 a.m. on the improved EIDL program for hotels. REGISTER
    • The National Restaurant Association will be holding a similar webinar for restaurant operators on August 11 at 1 p.m. REGISTER
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that Michael Solmonov and Marc Vetri have joined the list of restaurateurs calling for indoor dining patrons to be vaccinated. 

August 6
  • The U.S. Department of Labor today released the July jobs report. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 943,000 for July while the unemployment rate dropped to 5.4%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The payroll increase was the best since August 2020. Average hourly earnings also increased more than expected, rising 0.4% for the month and are up 4% from the same period last year.
    • PRLA Members: Make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through our Level Up multimedia industry workforce campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Part of Level Up includes profiles of current industry employees across our social media channels, telling their stories of how and why they chose the hospitality industry. Check out some of our most recent profiles here and here and here. Share this form with any employee who should be featured in one of our Level Up posts.
  • Yesterday, PRLA's Ben Fileccia joined the PHL17 Morning News Desk to talk about PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign, which continues tonight with a free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic at Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.) during the Blank Panther screening, from 6-8 p.m.
  • PRLA's summer issue of our quarterly magazine is out today and tackles the labor shortage facing the hospitality industry. 
  • Restaurant owners around the country are defending their decision to require customers to show proof of vaccination for indoor dining. PRLA has compiled several free and paid resources for operators that focus on de-escalation techniques and training for staff. 

August 5
  • Yelp today rolled out a new set of labels that allow businesses on the platform to specify if they require proof from customers that they are vaccinated and whether their own staff is fully vaccinated. For now, these are optional and Yelp is proactively monitoring the listing of businesses who opt-in. 
  • The IRS recently announced two updates (pages 20-24) for restaurants accessing the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC):
    1. Businesses can claim tips paid by customers in excess of $20 per month as eligible wages for ERTC.
    2. Businesses can receive both the ERTC and the section 45B credit for the same wages. 
  • Skift.com is reporting that the White House on Thursday confirmed it is discussing whether or not it will require visitors from abroad to be vaccinated as part of its plans to eventually reopen international travel but said it would not immediately lift restrictions.
  • This week's Morning Consult, which tracks American's sentiments on resuming normal activities, shows comfort levels declining for activities like dining out, going on vacation, shopping, and going to the movies. The declines are most likely attributed to news of the delta variant becoming more prominent.  
  • Both the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association updated their respective operating guidance to reflect the new CDC guidance. 
  • Earlier this week, Sean Kennedy, EVP of government affairs at the National Restaurant Association, released a 90-second update on the ERTC, PPP loan forgiveness, and the RRF. 
  • Yesterday, Politico.com reported on a letter sent by Virginia Sens. Kaine and Warner asking Senate leadership for more restaurant aid by replenishing the RRF. 
  • Gov. Wolf yesterday signed the 15th renewal of the state's opioid disaster declaration. Republican lawmakers today told the governor that it will end this month, through the authority given them by voters in the May primary election, but that the crisis will remain a top legislative priority.  
  • Today, Gov. Wolf visited Cafe Rinaldi in Old Forge to highlight the recipients of the $2.3 million in CHIRP funds awarded to Lackawanna County. 
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with a free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic coming up on Friday, August 6:
    • 6 - 8 PM @ Philadelphia's Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.)
    • For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly. We hope to expand this initiative in other regions of the state soon.

​August 4
  • The Pa. Department of Agriculture today informed us that they will begin citing and fining ($300) eating establishments that do not comply with the food safety certification requirements of having a certified person accessible at all times. PRLA offers more than 80 in-person ServSafe Manager Certification courses around the state each year. Check out the current class schedule provided by our partner HRFoodSafe and register today.  
  • Last week, the U.S. Treasury and IRS expanded the Paid Leave Tax Credit to enable more vaccinations. This expanded guidance gives employers further opportunities to support the health and safety of their employees without placing an undue burden on their businesses. The IRS released an updated FAQ to provide details on the program. 
  • Papa John's is looking to hire 20,000 team members in a massive recruiting event that takes place across the country from August 16-22.  
  • High Road Restaurants—restaurant industry activists run by operators and a subsidiary of One Fair Wage—used independent data from UC Berkeley to create a calculator to determine the impact on menu prices with new $15 hourly salaries. 
  • The CDC yesterday issued a new, "temporary" moratorium on evictions that covers counties experiencing "substantial" or "high" levels of COVID-19 spread and expires on October 3. The New York Times is reporting that the White House is in "a 60-day sprint to distribute billions in rental aid...that could be stopped by the courts at any moment." 
  • Teladoc, the virtual medical/mental health program, will be increasing from $7 per person to $9 per person on August 10 because of the enhanced digital behavioral tools. The free and unlimited teletherapy and telepsychiatry are still included. Anyone who enrolls prior to August 10 will be locked into the $7 per person. 
  • ICYMI: PPP borrowers with loans of up to $150,000 are eligible to submit their forgiveness application directly to the SBA rather than with their banks through the new PPP Forgiveness Portal. The portal began accepting applications today and the application process should take about 10 minutes. 
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with a free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic coming up on Friday, August 6:
    • 6 - 8 PM @ Philadelphia's Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.)
    • For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly. We hope to expand this initiative in other regions of the state soon.

August 3
  • New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced vaccines will be required to work at or enter any restaurant, gym, or performance venue. The program, similar to mandates issued in France and Italy last month, will start on Aug. 16 with enforcement beginning on Sept. 13. The National Restaurant Association issued a statement on the NYC vaccine verification requirement.
  • While some restaurants in Philadelphia are already requiring indoor dining patrons to show proof of vaccination, city officials today announced that while they are monitoring case counts the city is not mandating masks or looking to follow NYC's lead with vaccine passports. 
  • McDonald's and Starbucks are now requiring masks again for both customers and workers in areas where coronavirus transmission is high, joining a growing number of brands reinstating mask mandates.  
  • Employment and labor law experts from Post & Schell today discussed what employers need to know about pay practices for tipped employees. If you were unable to join the webinar live, you can watch the recording here.    
  • The grant application for the competitive tourism grants is now open. MORE INFO | GRANT APPLICATION 
  • Politico is reporting that President Joe Biden is expected to announce a new, targeted federal eviction ban to replace the one that expired over the weekend. This announcement sets up a potential clash with the U.S. Supreme Court. 
  • The psychological toll of losing a job due to COVID-19 caused many young hotel and restaurant workers to consider changing careers, according to a Washington State University study.
  • ICYMI: PPP borrowers with loans of up to $150,000 are eligible to submit their forgiveness application directly to the SBA rather than with their banks through the new PPP Forgiveness Portal. The portal will begin accepting applications on August 4 and the application process should take about 10 minutes. 
  • PRLA yesterday hosted a Central Chapter Legislative Roundtable at Tröegs Independent Brewing in Hershey. Representatives from 10 legislative offices attended (5 legislators and 5 staff) to hear from members on PRLA's fall legislative priorities during the meeting and at the reception that followed. 
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with a free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic coming up on Friday, August 6:
    • 6 - 8 PM @ Philadelphia's Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.)
    • For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly. We hope to expand this initiative in other regions of the state soon.

August 2
  • PPP borrowers with loans of up to $150,000 are eligible to submit their forgiveness application directly to the SBA rather than with their banks through the new PPP Forgiveness Portal. The portal will begin accepting applications on August 4 and the application process should take about 10 minutes. To learn more, register for the National Restaurant Association's August 3 webinar on PPP loan forgiveness at 3 p.m. 
  • The Altoona Mirror published an op-ed by Doug Simon, owner and head chef at The Casino at Lakemont Park, outlines why replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) is critical for the industry's recovery. Two bills calling for the RRF replenishment have been introduced in Congress, RRF Replenishment Act and ENTRÉE Act. PRLA encourages you to reach out to your congressional representatives urging their support of one or both bills. 
  • AHLA is conducting an updated survey regarding hotel labor and staffing issues. This information is critical to the industry's advocacy efforts and the survey is open until August 4. TAKE SURVEY
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory released its latest US Hotel Update, which noted that international travel restrictions are benefitting U.S. hotels as Americans have been traveling and spending domestically. CBRE Hotels Research also forecasts U.S. lodging demand will return to pre-pandemic levels by Q4 or 2023.
  • The PLCB Wholesale Operations newsletter highlights eight new features of the Licensee Online Ordering Portal (LOOP) such as allowing licensees to upload a PDF file in conjunction with all return requests.
  • In preparation for the Pa. Legislature's return this September, PRLA is updating our legislative priorities for the fall. 
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with a free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinic coming up on Friday, August 6:
    • 6 - 8 PM @ Philadelphia's Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.)
    • For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly. We hope to expand this initiative in other regions of the state soon.

July 30
  • Eater explores "What the Delta Variant Surge Means for Restaurants": The Delta Wave Has Arrived: Here We Go Again
  • PRLA's #VaxPhilly campaign continues with free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics coming up on:
    • Sunday August 1:
      • 10 AM - 12 PM @ Masjid Al-Madinah (201 S. 69th St., Upper Darby)
      • 12 - 2 PM @ Don Pedro’s Grocery (55 Garret Road, Upper Darby)
      • 2 - 6 PM @ Fatima Outreach Center (2915 Street Road, Bensalem)
    • Friday, August 6th:
      • 6 - 8 PM @ Philadelphia's Clark Park (400 Baltimore Ave.)
    • For the most up-to-date info on mobile vaccination sites, visit www.prla.org/vaxphilly. We hope to expand this initiative in other regions of the state soon.
  • PBS News Hour reports: In the year ending in June, wages and salaries jumped 3.5% for workers in the private sector, the largest increase in more than 14 years. That increase was driven by sharp rise in pay for restaurant and hotel workers of more than 6%.
  • Today at AHLA's World Day Against Trafficking in Persons awareness event, CEO Chip Rogers announced over 500,000 hotel workers have received human trafficking awareness training. During the event, Marriott International announced the company will make its enhanced human trafficking awareness training available industry-wide.
July 29
  • Union Square Hospitality Group CEO Danny Meyer announced that all employees and customers at his restaurants will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination beginning September 7. Meyer's group joins a growing list of companies that are implementing vaccine requirements and mandates as the more virulent Delta variant continues to spread across the United States.
  • Restaurant Dive reports that the number of consumers that used Yelp to dine out in May of this year was up by 48% since May 2019, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers by a significant amount.
  • The National Restaurant Association’s analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicated that food prices were up 9.6% from June 2020 to June 2021.
  • Beginning July 30, Disney World, Disneyland will require masks while indoors and in Disney buses, monorail & Disney Skyliner, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings remain optional in outdoor common areas.
  • Fraudulent unemployment claims filed via identity theft are on the rise nationally in an unprecedented way. Here are some warning signs from the PA Department of Labor and Industry - brought to you by PRLA preferred partner FocusHRO: HR TIDBIT - Unemployment Fraud
  • ServSafe has long been the restaurant industry's most trusted training resource, but they are more than just food safety. Check out these two programs designed for the future of the restaurant profession:
    • ServSuccess, the new professional development program for restaurants, helps you build employee pride and the professionalism that wins business. The industry's first formal certification program trains employees for specific restaurant career paths.
    • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a productivity app that helps ensure operational efficiency, winning habits for your staff—and success for your business. PRLA members can try it FREE for 6 months!

July 28
  • Businesses with Paycheck Protection loans of $150,000 or less will be able to use a simplified online process starting August 4 to determine with less time and effort if they qualify for loan forgiveness, the Small Business Administration announced today.
  • This Friday, July 30, is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The American Hotel & Lodging Association will be holding a virtual awareness event at 11 a.m., which will include a 30-minute human trafficking prevention training for hotel employees. Marriott International and AHLA also will release the details on new resources for hotel operators to prevent trafficking in the hospitality industry. As this day approaches, we want to remind you that PRLA members are eligible for free human trafficking prevention training through our preferred partner BEST Alliance. 
  • State officials and the State Police today issued a reminder to Pennsylvanian residents to be wary of fraudsters who are using information stolen from private-sector data leaks to apply for unemployment compensation. 
  • Consumer behavior changes are dictating the restaurant recovery, according to NPD Group's David Portalatin. The shift to working from home and the delta variant are dampening on-premise dining. The Morning Consult's weekly tracker on the return to normal also noted a 3% dip in dining out from the previous week's all-time high.
  • Save money and get technology advice with PRLA partner Dell Technologies. Everything from laptops and desktops to cyber-security and wireless networking. Call 855-900-5548, email Steven.Shipe@dell.com, or visit  www.Dell.com/PRLA.
  • This morning, John Longstreet, PRLA president & CEO, and Mick Owens, PRLA board member and owner of Mick's All American Pub, will testify before the Senate Committee on Community, Economic & Recreational Development at a hearing focused on the economic impact of the workforce shortage in Pennsylvania. The hearing was live-streamed and a recording of the hearing is archived here. 

July 27
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today reversed course on some masking guidelines, recommending that even vaccinated people return to wearing masks indoors in parts of the U.S. where the coronavirus is surging. 
  • Meanwhile, Gov. Wolf was quoted in news outlets around the commonwealth as saying "I'm not considering any statewide [mask] mandate." He has made it clear the Administration's strategy for fighting the virus is through vaccines. The Administration released an expanded statement late this afternoon, which read:
    • "The administration is not considering reinstating a statewide mandate; however, we recommend Pennsylvanians, including schools, follow CDC guidance. Further, businesses and local governments may adopt stricter COVID prevention strategies, including mask requirements."
  • Pa. House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin) sent a letter to state agencies Monday telling them to prepare to have the nearly 500 waived and suspended regulations reinstated on Sept. 30, while also working with House standing committees on reviewing which regulations should be permanently repealed or reformed. 
  • If you are an amusement park or large entertainment venue that was not previously eligible for federal relief, you can ask your congressional representatives to co-sponsor and help pass H.R. 3392, which broadens the definition of SVOG eligible businesses allowing amusement parks and similar businesses to apply for funding from the over $16 billion grant program administered by the SBA. The bill currently sits in the House Small Business Committee and has bipartisan support. 
  • Pittsburg City Council renewed COVID-19 paid sick leave prior to recessing for the summer. Employees at workplaces with more than 50 or more employees will be entitled to 80 hours of sick time if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or caring for a family member ill with the disease.
  • Yesterday, Gov. Wolf visited Lancaster's Silantra Asian Street Kitchen to highlight the grant funding provided through the COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP). 
  • ICYMI: At 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 28, John Longstreet, PRLA president & CEO, and Mick Owens, PRLA board member and owner of Mick's All American Pub, will testify before the Senate Committee on Community, Economic & Recreational Development at a hearing focused on the economic impact of the workforce shortage in Pennsylvania. The hearing will be live-streamed from this website. 

July 26
  • The Associated Press is reporting that the landscape of a post-pandemic workforce is changing and depending on an unexpected demographic — teens. 
  • 90.5WESA today highlighted two Pennsylvania businesses in the Pittsburgh area that were awarded RRF grants through the priority designation only to have their funds rescinded due to the lawsuit. 
  • At 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 28, PRLA will testify before the Senate Committee on Community, Economic & Recreational Development at a hearing focused on the economic impact of the workforce shortage in Pennsylvania. The hearing will be live-streamed from this website. 
  • Two Philadelphia restaurants recently landed in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards for Restaurants. Ristorante Pesto ranked fifth for U.S. Everyday Eats Restaurant Award, while Vedge ranked eighth for U.S. Best Vegan Restaurant. Congratulations!
  • A new program between Visit Hershey & Harrisburg and Temple University Center for Student Professional Development programs will connect Temple students and recent graduates with local businesses looking to train or fill immediate needs in the sport, tourism, and hospitality management/communications/business administration/event management fields. LEARN MORE
  • The U.S. Department of Commerce last week announced a new opportunity for federal "competitive tourism grants" for nonprofits with a 501(c)(3) status who act in cooperation with their respective state can apply for up to a $10 million grant. 

July 23
  • The Pa. Attorney General's office yesterday announced charges against state Rep. Margo Davidson for stealing from the Commonwealth by filing fraudulent overnight per diem requests and other expenses, as well as hindering the prosecution. Rep. Davidson said in a statement that she plans to resign after being charged with theft relating to the misuse of campaign funds. 
  • A state appeals court today refused to overturn an order that closed a western Pa. restaurant for disobeying Gov. Wolf's COVID-19 restrictions requiring its workers and customers to wear face masks. 
  • Yesterday, PRLA was invited to attend a stakeholders' briefing by the Wolf Administration on proposed changes to existing regulations relating to Pennsylvania's Minimum Wage Act. The Administration is currently finalizing the proposed regulatory changes and will submit them to the Attorney General for review. After that, they will submit the proposal to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) where there will be an opportunity for public comment.
  • The U.S. Justice Department told Gov. Tom Wolf's office on Thursday that it has decided not to open an investigation into whether Pennsylvania violated federal law by ordering nursing homes to accept residents who had been treated for COVID-19 in a hospital. 
  • Earlier this week, Republican Congressman and ranking member of the House Committee on Small Business, Blaine Luetkemeyer, introduced the ENTRÉE Act this week to add $60 billion accounted-for funds to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. PRLA members who have a Republican member of Congress should urge them to support the ENTRÉE Act. The proposal achieves the same goal as the Restaurant Revitalization Replenishment Act but reappropriates existing recovery funds to the RRF and eliminates priority groups. 
  • The City of Philadelphia is recommending (not mandating) that people wear a mask indoors regardless of their vaccination status to help quell the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant. 
  • At a town hall in Cincinnati on Wednesday night, President Biden was asked by restaurant owner John Lanni what his administration was going to do to end the staff shortages. He replied by telling Lanni that he should increase wages and that the reason restaurants were struggling to hire people was that workers were considering 'different opportunities'. Restaurant operators took to Twitter to vent their frustration with the president's response. READ MORE
  • Wine Spectator has unveiled the winners of its annual 2021 Restaurant Awards, which honor the world's best restaurants for wine. This year's list features 70 establishments from across Pennsylvania.
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across the Philadelphia area in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, Unidos Contra COVID, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:
    • Sat., July 24 | 10 AM - 12 PM | Masjid Al-Madinah, Upper Darby
    • Sat., July 24 | 12 - 2 PM | Don Pedro's Grocery, Upper Darby
    • View all clinics & details at: www.prla.org/vaxphilly 


​July 22
  • Republican Congressman and ranking member of the House Committee on Small Business, Blaine Luetkemeyer, introduced the ENTRÉE Act this week to add $60 billion accounted-for funds to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
  • The Philadelphia Department of Health announced Thursday that they are now strongly recommending that people wear a mask indoors regardless of their vaccination status to help quell the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant.
  • In the news: PRLA’s Level Up campaign was mentioned in an article from the Pottstown Mercury. READ
    • PRLA Members: Post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through our Level Up multimedia industry workforce campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure winning habits and success for your business. This easy-to-use app empowers your restaurant staff to succeed. PRLA members can try it FREE for 6 months! LEARN MORE
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across the Philadelphia area in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, Unidos Contra COVID, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:
    • Sat., July 24 | 10 AM - 12 PM | Masjid Al-Madinah, Upper Darby
    • Sat., July 24 | 12 - 2 PM | Don Pedro's Grocery, Upper Darby
    • View all clinics & details at: www.prla.org/vaxphilly 

July 21
  • The PA Department of Labor & Industry is warning employers: unemployment compensation fraud attempts are on the rise across the nation and in Pennsylvania. Please watch out for these warning signs of fraudulent unemployment claims filed involving you or your company.
    • Employers who can access the new UC system can use this guide to help you report fraudulent claims: https://bit.ly/3zhbqED
    • Employers who cannot access the new UC system can use the SIDE E-Response system to report fraudulent claims: https://bit.ly/3BnGp3A.
  • Since the SBA launched the Restaurant Revitalization Fund back in May, many restaurants have been left with more questions than answers. Join the National Restaurant Association's Sean Kennedy on Monday, July 26th at 11 a.m. as he answers some of the most FAQs live on their Facebook page.
  • Congrats to the Historic Hotel Bethlehem on being nominated for USATODAY 10Best's Best Historic Hotel for 2021! Vote now to help them win.
  • Morning Consult has been tracking consumer comfort with returning to normal activities in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Latest findings include:
    • Comfort Dining Out Dips From Last Week’s Record High: Following last week’s high, the share of adults who said they currently feel OK eating at a restaurant dipped 1 percentage point to 70 percent. 
    • Comfort Taking Vacations Shows Signs of Stagnation: Comfort ended June at 62 percent before setting a record at 65 percent earlier this month. As of a July 15-17 survey, it dipped back down to 63 percent.
  • The Independent Fiscal Office recently released its July Labor Market Update showing an improvement in payroll job creation in the month of June. 23,100 part or full-time jobs were added in June. The Leisure and Hospitality industry saw an increase of 26,800 jobs, while healthcare saw 8,600 added jobs, retail 5,700 added jobs, manufacturing 4,800 added jobs, and construction 1,300 added jobs. Pennsylvania also saw a decrease in average weekly unemployment compensation (UC) claims, with 767,300 UC recipients receiving an average of $2,059, which is a 144,500 person drop from the number of UC recipients in May.
  • Congratulations to PRLA Vice Chairman Thomas Neely on being appointed the new Board Chair of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau!
  • PRLA Members: Make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through our Level Up multimedia industry workforce campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB

July 20
  • Over the past year, changing guidance from the Department of Labor has left tipped employers scratching their heads and wondering which rules apply. Join us for a webinar with Post & Schell, P.C. on Tuesday, August 3 at 10 a.m. for an overview of tip pooling and tip credit issues, explanation of current pay requirements, and upcoming changes. REGISTER
  • Philadelphia was recently named one of The World’s 100 Greatest Places of 2021 by TIME.
  • CBRE Hotels Research forecasts U.S. lodging demand will return to pre-pandemic levels by the fourth quarter of 2023. READ MORE
  • Lodging Magazine predicts that economy hotels and those within the limited-service segment are poised to outperform the rest of the industry this summer travel season. Click here for three reasons why.
  • FSR Magazine suggests five ways restaurant owners can entice workers to apply.
    • PRLA Members: Make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through our Level Up multimedia industry workforce campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB

July 19
  • The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Bureau of Recreation and Conservation recently announced the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and Snowmobile Program’s fall grant round. Grant funding will be awarded through a competitive application process. Applicants can apply for this funding starting Monday, August 2, 2021, and due by 4 pm on Thursday, September 30, 2021, by means of the Department’s online grant application portal. More information is available here.
  • The National Restaurant Association created a new fact sheet detailing the critical need for replenishing the RRF. We encourage you to share this information with others and join our call for additional RRF funding. If you haven’t already, simply click this link to add your voice and connect with your representatives in Washington, DC.
  • The summer tourism season is in full swing! Don't forget to keep your ServSafe Food Safety Manager Certification up-to-date to ensure your business remains in compliance with state regulations. Click here to register for an upcoming class near you with our ServSafe partner, HRFoodSafe.
  • PRLA's biweekly Industry Update webinar with V.P. of Government Affairs, Melissa Bova, will be on break next week and will return on Wednesday, August 11th. REGISTER

July 16
  • Yesterday, the AP reported on the federal unemployment data, noting that jobless claims have steadily declined since their peak in early January. Today, the AP reported on Pennsylvania's unemployment rate for June, which came in at 6.9% — a whole point above the national unemployment rate of 5.9%. 
  • PRLA preferred partner FocusHRO presents some helpful tips and information to help attract talent post-pandemic. 
  • While restaurant sales plunged on average last year, a third of the chains in the Technomic Top 500 added locations. However, on average, chains closed 2% of their locations, and, overall, the chain restaurant industry shrunk in 2020. 
  • To honor World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, AHLA will be holding a virtual awareness and training event on July 30 at 11 a.m., including a 30-minute session tailored for hotel employees. While the fight to end human trafficking has no finish line, we can make a difference by raising awareness and training employees. Additionally, PRLA members are eligible for free human trafficking prevention training through our preferred partner BEST Alliance. 
  • Earlier this week, the Lehigh Valley Chapter hosted its inaugural Lehigh Valley Scramble at the Steel Club in Hellertown. We thank all who participated and supported this sold-out event, which benefits the PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship Fund and the Hospitality Assistance Response of PA grant program. Check out pictures from the day's event on Facebook. 
    • Tee Sponsors: 29 Cooks Catering, Apollo Grill, The Bayou, Banko Beverage, Blue Springs Imports, Borderline Family Restaurant, Campbell Real Estate, McConkey Insurance & Benefits, MillerSearles LLC, XGolf Lehigh Valley
    • Hole Sponsors: Barley Snyder, Detzi's Tavern, Embassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley, Historic Hotel Bethlehem, Kistler O'Brien Fire Protection, Lehigh Financial Group LLC, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Liquor License Sales PA/NJ, Martinez Hospitality, Northampton County Area Agency on Aging, Peoples Security Bank & Trust, PepsiCo, SYSCO Central PA, US Foods, Yocco's Hot Dogs
    • Beverage Sponsors: Samuel Adams (beer), Banko Beverage (beer), The Wine Merchant LTD (wine), PepsiCo, ABARTA Coca-Cola
    • Lunch Sponsor: Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group, a Red Robin franchisee
  • The following members of Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation have not yet signed on in support of replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). If you reside in their district, please reach out to them via a phone call or message to urge them to support replenishing the RRF. 
  • PRLA, with the help of our partners at Food Shelter PR, has launched “Level Up,” a statewide multimedia campaign to showcase the opportunity and flexibility of employment within the hospitality industry. Level Up was conceived in response to the workforce shortage throughout Pennsylvania as a recruitment tool to welcome potential employees back to the workforce, feature training and advancement opportunities within the industry, and drive job-seekers to PAHospitalityJobs.com.
    • PRLA members—make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through this campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Use our #LevelUp digital assets to share about your organization's open positions on social media.
    • A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

​July 15
  • The AP today reported that the number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits has reached its lowest level since the pandemic struck last year. This week's jobless claims came in around 360,000 and the number has been falling steadily since its peak of 900,000 in early January. 
  • Earlier this week, the U.S. Labor Department reported that the consumer price index (CPI) increased 5.4% from a year earlier, the largest jump since August 2008. Stripping out volatile food and energy prices, the core CPI rose 4.5%, well above the estimate of 3.8%. A separate report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics noted that the big monthly hike in consumer prices translated into negative real wages for workers. 
  • A restaurant in Brewster, Mass. shut down for a "day of kindness" after its staff was driven to tears by customers' insults and threats. 
  • The Allegheny County Health Department approved legislation allowing for paid sick leave to be required by employers within the county who have 26 or more employees. It now goes to County Council for consideration. 
  • The AHLA today reported that Congress has removed a provision from the FY2022 Labor-HHS Appropriations bill that would have effectively prohibited hotels from using the H-2B visa program. With that harmful language removed, the AHLA and H-2B Workforce Coalition will now shift its focus to increasing support for HR 3897, the Returning Worker Exemption Act of 2021. 
  • The Morning Consult has been tracking pent-up demand and excitement for many activities throughout the pandemic. This week's latest report shows that 70% of adults said they currently feel safe sitting down for a meal indoors. The indoor dining sentiment still lags behind outdoor dining (79%), but that is roughly the same difference reported in all previous summer weeks. As for travel, 61% of adults said they would feel safe booking a stay at a major hotel chain, up 3 percentage points from last week. 
  • The following members of Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation have not yet signed on in support of replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). If you reside in their district, please reach out to them via a phone call or message to urge them to support replenishing the RRF. 
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 14
  • The following members of Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation have not yet signed on in support of replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). If you reside in their district, please reach out to them via a phone call or message to urge them to support replenishing the RRF. 
  • On this morning's Industry Update webinar, special guest Aaron Frazier from the National Restaurant Association walked through how to take advantage of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is a hiring tax credit available to businesses. To apply for WOTC, an employer must submit the IRS 8850 and ETA 9061 (or 9062 where applicable) within 28 days of the new hires' start date. 
  • Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge Christine Ward has denied the emergency motion of Ace Hotel to keep the East Liberty hotel closed amid an ongoing dispute between the boutique hotelier and its local ownership.
  • The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education's governing board today unanimously voted to merge 6 of Pennsylvania's state-owned universities into two new institutions. Bloomsburg, Mansfield, and Lock Haven universities will form one institution; California, Clarion, and Edinboro universities will form the other. The change will be phased in, starting later in 2022.  
  • The National Restaurant Association will be hosting a complimentary educational session on July 22 at 2 p.m. on how to identify if your business is eligible for the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and what to expect from the application process. 
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 13
  • ServSafe recently released the 6th edition of its COVID-19 Operating Guidance, which incorporates the latest recommendations and best practices from the CDC, FDA, and OSHA. DOWNLOAD
  • The Small Business Administration Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program still has billions of dollars left. The program, which first opened in April, has received around 15,000 applications for about $11.7 billion in funding—billions short of the $16 billion allocation by Congress. 
  • Destination Analysts latest update on American travel trends and sentiment finds that while 44.6% of Americans feel that now is a good time to spend money on leisure travel, 59.2% feel that travel prices are generally too high right now. High travel prices have deterred nearly 40% of those surveyed from traveling in the past month.  FULL REPORT
  • Join us tomorrow, July 14 at 11 a.m. for the next Industry Update with Melissa Bova as special guest Aaron Frazier from the National Restaurant Association breaks down what you need to know about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). Register for this free session here. 
  • Pittsburgh City Council has voted to send legislation back to committee that would extend the current Emergency Paid Leave requirement until 90 percent of the population is vaccinated. Council is not expected to consider the legislation at this time. 
  • The National Restaurant Association is reporting that eating and drinking places added 194,300 jobs in June, marking the sixth consecutive month of staffing growth. Despite the growth, this segment is still nearly 10% below pre-pandemic employment levels. 
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 12
  • Last week, the Department of Labor & Industry Secretary reminded Pennsylvanians who receive unemployment benefits that work search requirements will resume the week of July 11. Because Unemployment Compensation (UC) claimants always file for benefits the week after they are unemployed, individuals will need to look for work this week so they can certify that they looked for work when they file their claims beginning July 18. Changes to the benefits and rules for unemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic have been identified by many economists and employers as a reason for the substantial number of currently unfilled jobs throughout the nation while unemployment rates remain high. Pennsylvania is struggling with the same situation - continuing levels of high unemployment while there are a sizable number of available jobs.
  • The AHLA Virtual Action Summit kicks off next week. Book your 30-minute appointment with Congress today. 
  • As bars and eateries struggle to staff up, several large restaurant chains have announced higher pay to entice workers to apply and stick around. Eating and drinking places added more than half a million jobs from March through June, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. But the unemployment rate for the industry remains elevated, hitting 10% in June.
  • Spotlight PA is reporting that the Pa. Department of Labor & Industry has admitted to overcharging unemployed Pennsylvanians millions of dollars and will issue refunds to roughly 250,000 people.  
  • PRLA's Philadelphia Chapter invites you to Welcome Back Wellness on Tuesday, July 13 from 4-6 PM at the Logan's Assembly Rooftop Lounge. This event will focus on health & well-being and will include 10-minute chair massages with LMT Michael Barnes, self-care and mobility practice with Pete Mattis' ZAKTi method, and a social happy hour w/light hors d'oeuvres. Open to anyone in the hospitality industry. | REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 9
  • The Philadelphia Business Journal reports, "Through June 30, the SBA approved 3,530 Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants to Pennsylvania businesses in a sum totaling more than $949 million. That’s slightly over one-third (35%) of the aid requested in the Keystone State, where 9,944 applications were submitted asking for almost $2.5 billion. The total amount in dollars ranks Pennsylvania seventh overall for what was approved."
  • Gov. Wolf joined Democratic legislators and community leaders in Philadelphia on Friday to rally for a vote to raise Pa.’s minimum wage.
  • The DHS Blue Campaign asks hospitality industry employees: Would you know how to spot signs of human trafficking? You can help victims by learning to recognize and report this crime. Learn more in their HOSPITALITY TOOLKIT.
  • ABC 27 reported that Pennsylvania ranked among the top 10 in the nation for vaccination rate according to a recent study from WalletHub, which could mean a boost in revenue for hospitality and entertainment businesses.
  • PRLA's Philadelphia Chapter invites you to Welcome Back Wellness on Tuesday, July 13 from 4-6 PM at the Logan's Assembly Rooftop Lounge. This event will focus on health & well-being and will include 10-minute chair massages with LMT Michael Barnes, self-care and mobility practice with Pete Mattis' ZAKTi method, and a social happy hour w/light hors d'oeuvres. Open to anyone in the hospitality industry. | REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

​
July 8
  • Yesterday, the SBA released updated RRF data for individuals states. Pennsylvania ranked 6th in total applications submitted, with 9,944 applications requesting nearly $2.5 billion in relief. The SBA approved 3,530 applications in Pennsylvania (or about 35% of submitted applications), totaling just under $950 million in aid. View the complete report here.
  • Pennsylvania has the second most bed & breakfasts in the country behind California. Tune in to NewsRadio WHP580's "Let's Talk Travel" with Sandy Fenton on Saturday, July 10 at 11 a.m. to hear from the executive director of the PA Association of Bed & Breakfast Inns, Rose Mape, as she discusses the value of B&Bs during the summer travel season. 
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure winning habits and success for your business. It combines the efforts of the ServSafe Dining Commitment to assist you with operational efficiency, compliance guidelines, and important information at your fingertips. Watch this 2-minute video (click the play arrow on the PowerPoint slide) to learn more about ServSafe Ops or sign up for a demo today!
  • Skift is reporting that VRBO is filling in the gaps where travel demand is intense by adding hotels, departing from its original plan of sticking with whole-home rentals. 
  • Last week, the IRS issued its "dirty dozen" list for 2021 with a warning for taxpayers, tax professionals, and financial institutions to be on the lookout for 12 schemes and scams. IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said scam artists continue to use the pandemic to steal money and information from honest taxpayers in a time of crisis. 
  • PRLA, with the help of our partners at Food Shelter PR, has launched “Level Up,” a statewide multimedia campaign to showcase the opportunity and flexibility of employment within the hospitality industry. Level Up was conceived in response to the workforce shortage throughout Pennsylvania as a recruitment tool to welcome potential employees back to the workforce, feature training and advancement opportunities within the industry, and drive job-seekers to PAHospitalityJobs.com.
    • PRLA members—make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through this campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Use our #LevelUp digital assets to share about your organization's open positions on social media.
    • A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 7
  • Megan Schaper, State College Area School District food service director, was recently named the School Nutrition Association's Director of the Year for Pennsylvania for her work ensuring students and families had accessible meals throughout the pandemic. 
  • PRLA, with the help of our partners at Food Shelter PR, has launched “Level Up,” a statewide multimedia campaign to showcase the opportunity and flexibility of employment within the hospitality industry. Level Up was conceived in response to the workforce shortage throughout Pennsylvania as a recruitment tool to welcome potential employees back to the workforce, feature training and advancement opportunities within the industry, and drive job-seekers to PAHospitalityJobs.com.
    • PRLA members—make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through this campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Use our #LevelUp digital assets to share about your organization's open positions on social media.
    • A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • Pittsburgh City Council is moving forward with legislation that extends COVID-19 Emergency Paid Sick Leave, which would expire at the end of the City’s Disaster Declaration, to continue until 90 percent of the population is vaccinated.  
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory's latest US Hotel Update foresees an accelerated pace of market recovery in 2021 based on strong Q1 2021 performance, encouraging economic and vaccine news. However, the report also underscores the challenges hotels are facing in the current labor market. Prior to the pandemic, there was a high-water mark of 17 jobs openings per hotel. Currently, there are 25 job openings per hotel nationwide. 
  • The Morning Consult published the latest results from its weekly public sentiment tracker for activities like dining out and travel. While outdoor dining still leads indoor dining in terms of comfort, both are steadily increasing week-over-week. American adult's comfort taking vacations has set a new record with 65 percent of Americans saying they feel comfortable going on a trip. 
  • Family House Inc., a long-established nonprofit that provides a 'home away from home' to medical patients and their families visiting Pittsburgh for care, has purchased the 132-room Courtyard by Marriott Shadyside for about $30 million, according to the Pittsburgh Business Times. 
  • ICYMI: Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:

July 6
  • The SBA has officially announced the closure of the RRF portal on July 14. It appears they are now distinguishing “eligible” applications, indicating they have tossed a fair number of applicants. Of note, this brings down the estimate of 1) total RRF applicants from 362K/370K applicants to 278K applicants and 2) total RRF requested funds from $75B to $72.2B. It looks like non-priority groups received 37.1% of RRF. View the breakdown here.
    • The only way to get more funds into the RRF is for Congress to allocate additional funding. Contact your Congressperson and Senators Toomey and Casey HERE. Or, even better, call their offices and explain how important these funds are for your operations. FIND YOUR LEGISLATOR
  • New data from the MAPP Report by myDigitalOffice (MDO) shows the hospitality industry continues to rebound. Hotel occupancy in the United States is nearly double the level of Independence Day weekend 2020.
  • PRLA, with the help of our partners at Food Shelter PR, has launched “Level Up,” a statewide multimedia campaign to showcase opportunity and flexibility of employment within the hospitality industry. Level Up was conceived in response to the workforce shortage throughout Pennsylvania as a recruitment tool to welcome potential employees back to the workforce, feature training and advancement opportunities within the industry, and drive job-seekers to PAHospitalityJobs.com.
    • PRLA members—make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board so that we can help promote them through this campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Use our #LevelUp digital assets to share about your organization's open positions on social media.
    • A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • Vaccines for all! PRLA is hosting free pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics across Philadelphia in conjunction with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, Temple Health, the William Penn Foundation, and community partners. Upcoming clinics include:
  • Do you take pride in your foodservice business's commitment to food safety? Share your story and let us celebrate your efforts during National Food Safety Month this September. Tell us about it at: www.prla.org/foodsafety Submissions due by August 1.

​July 2
  • Yesterday, Governor Wolf vetoed SB 618, which would have prohibited local, county, and state offices, as well as public schools and publicly funded universities from requiring Pennsylvanians to prove that they’ve been vaccinated.
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry.
    • PRLA members—make sure to post your open positions for FREE on PRLA's job board ASAP so that we can help promote them through this campaign. For a limited time, non-members can also receive a complimentary posting by using the code COVID-19. POST A JOB
    • Use our #LevelUp digital assets to share about your organization's open positions on social media.
    • A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • The Wall Street Journal reports that although the pandemic has brought monetary strain to many American households, financial concerns do not appear to be holding people back from traveling and spending on their summer vacations this year, according to "Deloitte’s Summer Travel Survey 2021."
  • PRLA together with the Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, and Temple Health, has launched a vaccine initiative for hospitality employees, their families, and community members with pop-ups across Philadelphia. The initiative is funded through the William Penn Foundation. READ MORE
  • Do you take pride in your foodservice business's commitment to food safety? Share your story and let us celebrate your efforts during National Food Safety Month this September! Tell us about it at: www.prla.org/foodsafety Submissions due by August 1.
  • We wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day weekend. The Daily Update will return on Tuesday, July 6.

​July 1
  • Billy Penn looks at the reasons Philly (and the rest of Pennsylvania) can't have to-go cocktails this summer. 
  • The U.S. Small Business Administration will officially shut down the RRF portal on July 14, unless Congress replenishes the fund (a possibility looking increasingly unlikely). The SBA will hold onto all applications if additional dollars are allocated to the fund. In a letter to RRF applicants, the SBA said it was able to provide grants to 105,000 restaurant operators before depleting the $28.6 billion fund. However, another 265,000 applicants were left disappointed. 
  • The National Restaurant Association Action Alert to replenish the RRF is still active. Consider taking 2 minutes to send a message to your elected officials urging them to replenish the fund. 
  • A new report from DoorDash found that many customers favor first-party channels such as websites, your app, and phone over third-party ordering. 
  • The American Hotel & Lodging Association will be holding its Virtual Action Summit on July 20 (with additional appointments available July 21 & 22). Book your 30-minute appointment with your members of Congress. It's your chance to tell them how COVID impacted your business, and it's free to attend. BOOK NOW
  • Tourism and hospitality operations across the country are feeling the crunch from labor shortages, and many are turning to teenagers (Generation Z) to help fill their openings. Check out these tips on what zoomers are looking for in a job. 
  • The IRS has a new tool that enables families to opt out from receiving monthly payments of the Child Tax Credit to get a lump sum when they file their taxes instead. However, families who don't normally file tax returns should check their eligibility and opt into the program. 

June 30
June 29
  • Sen. Scott Martin today called on Senate leadership to immediately reconvene for session and concur on HB 1154, which would allow for the continuation of mixed drinks to-go and a streamlined process for outdoor seating. The bill also includes other important recovery initiatives for restaurants in PA. The Senate is currently not scheduled to return to session until September 20, 2021.  
  • Will COVID-19 spark the comeback of casual dining? READ MORE
  • Hospitality industry consultants Accenture have released a report highlighting how hotels and airlines can capture the rising demand in leisure travel and best position themselves for the post-pandemic recovery.
  • According to Nation's Restaurant News, restaurant operators are rethinking alcohol service as the COVID-19 pandemic fades. Many operators have discovered that consumers are eager to return to their pre-pandemic socializing routines in bars and restaurants in the wake of widespread vaccinations and the decline in COVID-19 infections.
  • The comprehensive annual Top 500 report, which takes a comprehensive look at the sales and unit growth numbers for the nation’s largest 500 restaurant chains in 2020, gives the long-awaited perspective on how the global pandemic of 2020 hurt — and helped — the largest 500 restaurant chains, which make up about 80% of the restaurant industry overall.
  • Despite having to pivot to takeout, traditionally sit-down restaurants improved their overall performance, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index — a survey of 20,000 customers.
  • Philly Mag's Monday news roundup included a summary of the cocktails to-go situation in Harrisburg,.

June 28
  • Despite our best efforts and your extensive outreach, the Pa. Senate decided not to address PRLA’s liquor priorities of allowing outdoor seating to continue and cocktails to go to be made permanent along with other important recovery initiatives contained in HB 1154. 
    • If you applied for the temporary expanded premises outdoor seating last year (which meant you didn't pay a fee or get inspected) and you wish to continue, you can apply for a permanent extension at PLCB+.  You'll need to log in, click on "Other License Changes/Amendments" and select "Extension of Premise" from the drop-down menu.  There is a $220 fee and an inspection will be required if you pursue this option. While the site says you cannot operate until you have an inspection, upon completion of your application, the PLCB will send you a letter granting temporary operating authority until you get your inspection from the PLCB. 
    • NOTE: If you are trying to license an area that was NOT previously licensed under the Emergency Extension you will not be granted automatic operating authority by applying for the permanent license. In short, if you never licensed the sidewalk next to your restaurant before or your streetery and you do so now—you are not permitted to use that space until you are inspected. Only the previously licensed area under the emergency application can have immediate operating authority.
  • On Friday night, the legislature passed a $40.8 billion budget that spends only about $1 billion of the $7.3 billion stimulus funds. The remaining funds will be moved to the state’s Rainy Day Fund in anticipation of a potential recession. The $1 billion that was spent was applied to schools, transportation and nursing homes. The legislature is now in recess until the middle of September. The Pa, House voted 140-61 to pass the budget, with the Senate passed it by a vote of 43-7. The budget now will head to Governor Wolf’s desk, who has indicated he plans to sign it this week. Two items of note in the budget:
    • Statewide tourism promotion was “flat funded” at just over $4 million. This is accompanied by about another $4.5 million in tax revenue from closing the online travel company loophole.  
    • The budget does contain a repeal of the increase in the salary threshold that was slated to take effect in October of this year, which means that the increase to $40,500 and any future increases will not happen and the state will stay aligned with the federal standard. 
  • Today ended Pennsylvania's mask mandate for all unvaccinated people, though some entities will still require a mask and federal guidance may still require your unvaccinated employees to continue to wear masks. 
  • As restaurants fully reopen after a very rough year, restaurant owners say bad manners are rising while dining out. PRLA has compiled several free and paid resources for operators that focus on de-escalation techniques and training for staff. 

June 25
  • HB 1154, which contains key recovery provisions for our industry, is now before the state Senate for a concurrence vote. The bill makes cocktails to-go permanent, keeps the streamlined ability for outdoor seating, allows licensees to have an unlimited amount of off-premise catering permits, eliminates safekeeping fees, and allows licensees that close to sell product to another license. If this isn't done today, they will recess for the summer and this bill would not be considered until fall at the earliest. We ask that you CALL your Senator IMMEDIATELY and ask them to support HB 1154 TODAY: PRLA  ACTION CENTER
  • The Legislature is expected to wrap up the budget and other bills this weekend before they recess for the summer. Stay tuned to PRLA's social media for timely updates, and see Monday's daily update for a full breakdown.
  • Legislation is pending in Congress to provide an additional $60 billion in funding for the RRF. If you haven’t weighed in with your Senators, please do so using this link from the National Restaurant Association.
  • Pennsylvania's mandate for people who aren't vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear face masks in public will end as of 12:01 a.m. on Monday, June 28, although businesses can still choose to require them. Note: The City of Philadelphia still requires unvaccinated individuals to wear masks any time they are around other people until they are fully vaccinated.
    • While the mask mandate in Pennsylvania will end on June 28, the CDC, OSHA, and other federal agencies still require a mask for unvaccinated individuals. Therefore, we suggest you consider having unvaccinated employees continue to wear a mask until the federal guidance changes.
  • Do you know a member of our industry that embodies the spirit of hospitality? Nominate them today for one (or more) of our Spirit of Hospitality Awards! Learn more and nominate them by September 1 at www.prla.org/prlaawards. Award winners will be honored at PRLA's annual Awards Gala, which will take place this November in Pittsburgh.
  • PRLA, in partnership with Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, and Temple Health, has launched a new vaccination campaign for the hospitality industry in Philadelphia. Dubbed "Vaccinations for All," the campaign features pop-up clinics around the city to encourage hospitality workers and their families to get vaccinated. The next vaccine clinic will take place:
    • June 26, 11 AM – 3 PM
      Northern Liberties Paint Day
      167 West Laurel Street
      Philadelphia, PA 19123
  • Lodging Magazine reports U.S. Business Travel Might Not Recover Until At Least 2024. Only about a third (35 percent) of U.S. businesses are currently engaging in any business-related travel.

​June 24
  • Earlier today, the Pa. House Rules Committee stripped the ready-to-drink canned cocktails amendment from HB 1154 and unanimously voted it out of committee. Late this afternoon, the full House passed the measure by a vote of 170-31. HB 1154 now goes back to the Senate for consideration tomorrow. Stay tuned to tomorrow's update for more information.
  • The Pa. Senate today concurred 29-21 with amendments added to SB 618, which would prohibit local, county, and state offices, as well as public schools and publicly-funded universities from requiring Pennsylvanians to prove that they have been vaccinated. The bill has now been approved by both the Senate and the House and will next head to Gov. Wolf. 
  • Gov. Tom Wolf today announced several staffing changes within his administration. Mike Brunelle will step down as chief of staff, a position he has served in since 2017, to take a job with the private sector. Elena Cross, deputy chief of staff, will assume the role of chief of staff on June 26. Jen Swails will step down as budget secretary and Gregory Thall, special advisor to the budget secretary, will assume the role of budget secretary. 
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson’s bill no. 210421, which after the amendments adopted last week, would mandate increased wages for employees at the Philadelphia International Airport for concessions and restaurants in January of 2022, and would require our operators to pay a health & wellness supplement to employees by July of 2023, was voted favorably in Council on final passage today, 16-0. 
  • While the mask mandate in Pennsylvania will end on June 28, the CDC, OSHA, and other federal agencies still require a mask for unvaccinated individuals. Therefore, we suggest you consider having unvaccinated employees continue to wear a mask until the federal guidance changes.
  • PRLA, in partnership with Garces Foundation, Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Puentes de Salud, and Temple Health, has launched a new vaccination campaign for the hospitality industry in Philadelphia. Dubbed "Vaccinations for All," the campaign features pop-up clinics around the city to encourage hospitality workers and their families to get vaccinated. 
  • Uber Eats has added a disclosure to its food delivery app saying menu item prices may be higher than those charged by restaurants, bowing to pressure from attorneys general from Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.
  • Prior to the pandemic, the National Restaurant Association partnered with the World Wildlife Fund, and, backed by support from Essity/Tork, developed a comprehensive set of resources to help operators reduce food waste. 

June 23
  • The Small Business Administration today sent emails to nearly 3,000 RRF 'priority' recipients whose grants were rescinded due to a federal court ruling. Last week, the National Restaurant Association sent a letter urging the SBA to review all pandemic relief programs under its control to appropriate federal dollars to fulfill the prior commitment to these operators. In the meantime, you can tell your elected officials to replenish the RRF. 
  • SmartBrief takes a look at how restaurants can encourage and empower employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19. 
  • The Morning Consult's tracking the return to normal continues to show consumers' comfort with indoor and outdoor dining holding steady at 67% and 76%, respectively. 
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure winning habits and success for your business. It combines the efforts of the ServSafe Dining Commitment to assist you with operational efficiency, compliance guidelines, and important information at your fingertips. If you missed today's webinar on the app, you can watch it on-demand here.  
  • The Pennsylvania Department of Education has awarded the Erie County Community College degree-granting authority and its inaugural semester will be in fall 2021. 
  • ICYMI: On Monday, the U.S. DOL issued a proposed rule that seeks to reinstate the Obama-era 80/20 tip credit rule. 

June 22
  • After Republicans failed to pass a clean, bipartisan bill to extend mixed drinks to go for restaurants and taverns, the Pennsylvania Senate Democrats are introducing legislation that will provide the opportunity for bars, taverns, and restaurants to extend some of the emergency provisions of the disaster declaration.
  • Philadelphia City Councilmembers Domb, Squilla, and Gilmore-Richardson also sent a letter to Gov. Wolf and House and Senate leadership urging immediate action to preserve cocktails to-go and expanded premise. 
  • PRLA, along with other organizations in the state that promote tourism, today sent a joint letter to some of  Pennsylvania’s House and Senate members requesting that they consider dedicating $20 million in this year’s budget to statewide tourism promotion. 
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure operational efficiency, winning habits for your staff—and success for your business. Learn how ServSafe Ops can help boost your business by attending a complimentary webinar on Wednesday, June 23 at 11 a.m. REGISTER
  • Driven by the easing of capacity restrictions, rising vaccination numbers, and healthy household balance sheets, consumer spending in restaurants trended steadily higher in recent months. 

June 21
  • AHLA updated their SafeStay guidance to lift the face mask requirement for vaccinated employees following the release of OSHA’s updated business guidance, Protecting Workers: Guidance on Mitigating and Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in the Workplace. OSHA’s updated guidance states, “Unless otherwise required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, most employers no longer need to take steps to protect their fully vaccinated workers who are not otherwise at-risk from COVID-19 exposure. This guidance focuses only on protecting unvaccinated or otherwise at-risk workers in their workplaces.”
  • The U.S. DOL today issued a proposed rule that seeks reinstate the Obama-era 80/20 interpretation of the Department’s dual jobs regulation to address the application of the FLSA’s tip credit to tipped employees who perform both tipped and non-tipped duties. Specifically, it proposes that if an employee performs work that directly supports tip-producing work for a substantial amount of time – that exceeds 20 percent of all of the hours worked during the employee’s workweek or exceeds 30 continuous minutes – “that worker is no longer performing labor that is part of the tipped occupation.” The proposal goes on to clarify that employers may not take a tip credit for work that is not part of the tipped occupation. | READ MORE
  • PRLA has partnered with Victory Brewing Company and 15ToKnow to host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Victory's Downingtown location today, Monday June 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. The first 75 participants age 21+ will receive a FREE growler of Victory's No Brainer IPA! | MORE INFO
  • PA Flavor, an annual celebration of Pennsylvania food & beer presented jointly by the Brewers of Pennsylvania, PRLA, and the American Culinary Federation - Harrisburg Chapter, is back at the the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg on August 21, 2021. We are still seeking restaurants, breweries and food vendors to exhibit at this year's event. | DETAILS
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY​

June 18
  • The legislature will return for a full week of session next week to pass a state budget and address PRLA’s priorities of reinstating cocktails to-go and allow for outdoor seating. Stay tuned to the Daily Update for more information as the process moves forward.
  • On Thursday, IRRC approved regulation that allows licensees to have their taps cleaned every 14 days instead of every 7. The regulation will now be forwarded to the Attorney General’s Office for approval and will be made official in the PA Bulletin following that approval. Stay tuned to PRLA’s daily update for when the effective date is announced.
  • ICYMI: The RRF Replenishment Act has been introduced in the House and Senate. The measure would provide an additional $60 billion for the RRF – enough to process the existing applications in the SBA queue. If you haven’t contacted your representatives in Congress, take 30 seconds to add your voice via the National Restaurant Association’s Action Alert.
  • PRLA has partnered with community organizations to bring free COVID-19 vaccine clinics throughout Southeast PA. Come out to an upcoming clinic to receive your Pfizer vaccine plus some freebies:
  • How do you support employees' mental health? 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness annually, and a study from the Mental Health in the Workplace Summit found that more workdays are lost to mental health-related absenteeism than any other injury or illness. Learn how you can create a supportive work culture with this HR Tidbit from PRLA partner FocusHRO.
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

June 17
  • With the end of the pandemic emergency declaration, so ends cocktails to-go and expanded premises outdoor seating. If you applied for the temporary expanded premises outdoor seating last year (which meant you didn't pay a fee or get inspected) and you wish to continue, you can apply for a permanent extension at PLCB+. Log in, click on "Other License Changes/Amendments" and select "Extension of Premise" from the drop-down menu. There is a $220 fee and an inspection will be required if you pursue this option. Once you apply and pay the fee, you can continue operating while you wait for inspection and final approval. 
  • The Pennsylvania Capital-Star took a look at Sen. Regan's statement to PennLive that central Pennsylvania is seeing more alcohol-related accidents, deaths, and DUIs. Data obtained from the Pennsylvania State Police shows a 17% decrease in DUIs from the previous year.  
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson’s bill no. 210421, which would increase wages for employees at the Philadelphia Airport, was amended in Council today and has been placed on next week’s final calendar. The changes to the bill mean the new wage increase for restaurants and concessions at the airport will not go into effect until January 2022. The bill also includes a $4.54 / hour health supplement that employers must pay their employees. With the changes, that part of the legislation will not go into effect until July 2023.
  • The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to the Small Business Administration regarding the Administration rescinding nearly 3,000 RRF grants due to the federal court ruling. 
  • AHLA today issued an Action Alert to urge your members of Congress to co-sponsor the bipartisan Restored, Equitable, Coronavirus Adjusted Lodging Act to freeze per diem rates at pre-pandemic levels. 
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure winning habits and success for your business.  It combines the efforts of the ServSafe Dining Commitment to assist you with operational efficiency, compliance guidelines, and important information at your fingertips. Learn more about ServSafe Ops on June 23 at 11 a.m. 
  • President Joe Biden today signed a bill passed by Congress to set aside Juneteenth, or June 19, as a federal holiday.
  • Former Pa. Gov. Tom Ridge is in critical but stable condition after suffering a stroke yesterday said Former Pa. First Lady Michele Ridge in a statement today. 
  • ICYMI: Last week's free vaccine clinic, in partnership with Temple Health and the William Penn Foundation, during the Fishtown District's Reopening Celebration has been rescheduled to this Friday, June 18. The first 100 individuals who receive their COVID-19 vaccine will get free cheesesteaks and ice cream! MORE INFO
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

June 16
  • HB 1154 (Masser—R, Northumberland, Columbia, and Montour), which would make mixed cocktails to-go permanent in Pennsylvania, passed favorably in the Senate today with a 26-24 vote. The bill now heads to the House for concurrence. The legislation was amended in the Senate Law & Justice Committee yesterday to include language allowing restaurants and beer distributors to sell ready-to-drink cocktails; that amendment was also adopted by the Senate Appropriations Committee today. PRLA supports HB 1154 and is committed to moving it expeditiously through the legislative process.
  • If you missed this morning's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch the session on-demand here.  
  • The Morning Consult weekly sentiment tracker indicates that comfort with outdoor dining is still significantly higher than indoor dining. And while takeout is still the most popular dining option, on-premises shows signs of catching up.
  • PRLA human resources partner, Focus HRO, released its latest HR Tidbit focusing on how to prioritize and support the mental health of your employees. 
  • ICYMI: Last week's free vaccine clinic, in partnership with Temple Health and the William Penn Foundation, during the Fishtown District's Reopening Celebration has been rescheduled to this Friday, June 18. The first 100 individuals who receive their COVID-19 vaccine will get free cheesesteaks and ice cream! MORE INFO
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

June 15
  • The Wolf Administration today certified the results of the May primary election, bringing a formal end to the disaster emergency declaration. With the declaration's end, expanded outdoor premise and cocktails to-go also end. 
  • The Senate Law & Justice Committee today loaded up HB 1154 with amendments, including the extension of outdoor seating and ready-to-drink canned cocktails. PRLA is determining the next steps on this bill. 
  • Restaurant Business is reporting that people are back to spending more at restaurants than at grocers for the first time since March 2020. (subscription required)
  • Wholesale prices, driven by rising food costs, increased by 0.8% in May and by an unprecedented amount over the past year as the U.S. economy emerges from pandemic lockdowns and pushes inflation higher. Over the past 12 months, wholesale prices are up 6.6%, the largest gain on records going back to 2014. 
  • Hot-Chee Dogs from Carlisle's Hamilton Restaurant will be honored on June 17 with a historical marker on the restaurant's 83rd birthday. 
  • Last week's free vaccine clinic, in partnership with Temple Health and the William Penn Foundation, during the Fishtown District's Reopening Celebration has been rescheduled to this Friday, June 18. The first 100 individuals who receive their COVID-19 vaccine will get free cheesesteaks and ice cream! MORE INFO
  • Montgomery County will hold the very first Crave Montco Month, a month-long celebration featuring local restaurants, breweries, wineries, and more this July. If you are interested in participating in this free event, complete this form. 
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY​

June 14
  • We issued an Action Alert this morning because when the emergency declaration ends (as soon as Tuesday), we lose two critical tools for our recovery: expanded outdoor seating and cocktails to-go. There are two legislative solutions currently available to address these issues:
    • HB 1154 would make cocktails to-go permanent (as long as it moves without amendment) and is currently in the Senate Law & Justice Committee.
    • HB 425 would preserve outdoor seating expansion until December 31, 2022, and is in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
    • Call or email your elected officials today or tomorrow morning to demand action. Additionally, please consider calling Senate Republican leadership as they have the power to get these bills moving.
      • Sen. Jake Corman: (717) 787-1377
      • Sen. Kim Ward: (717) 787-6063
  • On Friday evening, the Small Business Administration announced that due to a recent court case, it was forced to suspend payments to RRF grant recipients who qualified under the "priority" designation of the RESTAURANTS Act. Reuters published a story with more details. 
  • This Thursday, June 17 at 3 p.m., the National Restaurant Association will be holding a webinar to address federal, state, and local guidance relating to vaccinations, return-to-work protocols, and other recommendations for safely reopening, with numerous agencies updating these rules sometimes (but not always!) consistently. REGISTER  
  • Also on Thursday, June 17 at 2 p.m., a live free webinar with an expert panel on indoor dining and indoor air quality presented by Senseware. REGISTER
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

June 11
  • Earlier this week, the Pa. legislature passed a resolution to end the governor's pandemic disaster emergency declaration, but the election results from May 18 must be certified before the resolution can take effect. The results haven't been certified, which means cocktails-to-go remains in effect (for now). It is critical that PRLA members call their senators and representatives and urge them to support HB 1154, which would keep this important tool in place as we rebuild the industry. FIND YOUR LEGISLATOR
  • Reporting by the Pennsylvania Capital-Star digs into what's holding up Harrisburg lawmakers from making to-go cocktails permanent. 
  • The City of Philadelphia has lifted the 11 p.m. last call restriction on city restaurants and bars, effective today. Additionally, fully vaccinated people can go without masks everywhere except healthcare settings, public transit, and congregate settings. The city also announced two modifications to the temporary outdoor dining program:
    • Propane use will be restricted to the sidewalk only; it will not be allowed in the parking lane or street.
    • Streetery structures exceeding 10 feet high will not be allowed.
  • Developed specifically for the restaurant industry, ServSafe Ops is a powerful tool that helps ensure winning habits and success for your business.  It combines the efforts of the ServSafe Dining Commitment to assist you with operational efficiency, compliance guidelines and important information at your fingertips. Learn more about ServSafe Ops on June 23 at 11 a.m. 
  • The Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act was introduced earlier this week. The bill will provide $60 billion in new money for the RRF program, which is about $50 billion short of the amount requested by the applications received prior to the portal closing. Congress needs to hear from you so this bill is brought to the floor for debate. TAKE ACTION
  • A federal judge has dismissed a pair of Black franchisees' discrimination lawsuit against McDonald's, saying that they didn't provide enough details to back their claims and that the statute of limitations has passed on some of their claims. 
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY
  • Today's free vaccine clinic, in partnership with Temple Health and the William Penn Foundation, during the Fishtown District's Reopening Celebration has been canceled due to inclement weather. Stay tuned for more info on a rain date.​









​June 10
  • By a vote of 30-20, the Pa. Senate today put an end to the governor's pandemic disaster emergency declaration, once the state's primary election results are fully certified (which likely will occur tomorrow, June 11). The Senate today unanimously passed HB 854, which extends many important protections from the declaration through September 30, 2021.
  • Unfortunately, cocktails-to-go does not qualify for protection through HB 854 meaning it will end as early as Friday, June 11. It is critical that PRLA members call their senators and representatives and urge them to support HB 1154, which would keep this important tool in place as we rebuild the industry. FIND YOUR LEGISLATOR
  • Late yesterday afternoon, the City of Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced that it would be lifting the 11 p.m. last call restriction on city restaurants and bars, effective June 11. Additionally, as of June 11, fully vaccinated people can go without masks everywhere except healthcare settings, public transit, and congregate settings. Two modifications to the temporary outdoor dining program were announced, too:
    • Propane use will be restricted to the sidewalk only; it will not be allowed in the parking lane or street.
    • Streetery structures exceeding 10 feet high will not be allowed.
  • Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed legislation that would regulate short-term rentals in the City.
  • OSHA today released an emergency temporary standard (ETS), COVID-19 Healthcare ETS, to protect healthcare and healthcare support service workers from occupational exposure to COVID-19. OSHA also released updates to its general industry guidance to align with CDC's most recent guidance for vaccinated individuals. 
  • PRLA is launching a new campaign, Level Up, to target potential employees on the flexibility, growth potential, and opportunities provided by the hospitality industry. A key component of this campaign is collecting and sharing stories from your employees on why they choose this industry and how the industry has helped them level up their skills, career, or dream. SHARE A STORY

June 9
  • The Pa. House of Representatives voted on party lines to put an end to the governor's pandemic disaster emergency declaration. The 113-90 vote sent the bill over to the Senate where, if it passes, would end the declaration as soon as the state's May 18 primary election results are fully certified (which will likely occur on Friday, June 11). 
  • This outcome means that cocktails-to-go could end as early as this Friday. It is critical that PRLA members call their senators and urge them to keep this important tool in place as we rebuild the industry. FIND YOUR LEGISLATOR
  • Tomorrow, the sponsors of the RESTAURANTS Act (Sens. Sinema/Wicker, Reps. Blumenauer/Fitzpatrick) will introduce the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act. The bill will provide $60 billion in new money for the RRF program, which is about $50 billion short of the amount requested by the applications received prior to the portal closing. Congress needs to hear from you so this bill is brought to the floor for debate. TAKE ACTION
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of Public Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, breaks down the RRF Replenishment Act in his most recent 90-second update.
  • Minority concession operators at the airport expressed concern with Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson’s bill no. 210421, which would mandate increased wages for employees at the Philadelphia International Airport and would require employers to pay for health benefits.
  • The U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Walsh today testified before the House Education & Labor Committee regarding the Department's policies and priorities. The secretary stated that OSHA's COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) will be issued tomorrow and only apply to the healthcare sector. General industry guidance will be updated to reflect the CDC's latest guidance. 
  • Business Insider looked at segment-specific data and found that some types of restaurants are having a harder time finding workers than others. For example, staffing levels at cafeterias and buffets down 58%, while coffee shops have nearly recovered.

June 8
  • A federal judge in Harrisburg today ruled that an "all-risk" insurance policy doesn't cover the financial losses the owners of a central Pa. hotel claim to have suffered due to the state-ordered business shutdown. This ruling joins scores of others across the country that have rejected commercial insurance claims. 
  • The U.S. Attorney's Office in Harrisburg filed new charges against the owner of a closed central Pa. restaurant, who already has pleaded guilty to federal tax evasion charges, for defrauding government loan programs designed to aid businesses harmed by the pandemic.
  • The Sixth Circuit court panel has ruled the prioritization of Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants on the basis of sex and race unconstitutional. While this ruling will likely not have much impact on the RRF, it could impact government-issued grants or loans moving forward. 
  • Several bills tracked by PRLA moved out of their respective committees today:
    • HB 829 ( Boback—R, Luzerne) was unanimously passed by the House Tourism & Development Committee. The bill dedicates 1 percent of the state occupancy tax to the promotion of tourism, arts, and museums. This legislation leverages the money generated by tourists to further promote tourism in Pennsylvania.
    • SB 368 (Bartolotta—R, Washington) was approved with a 9-2 vote in the Senate Finance Committee. This bill would allow small businesses to take a net loss against other sources of income, establish a new grant or loan program which would temporarily allow small businesses to “carry back” losses to previous tax years and would allow businesses that suffered net operating losses in 2018 or 2019 to apply for a tentative tax refund if they were profitable in any of the five years prior to the loss. 
    • HB 765 (Miller—R, Lancaster) was unanimously passed by the Senate Transporation Committee. It would prohibit PennDOT from requiring municipalities to indemnify the Department as a condition for approving special event permits sponsored by a third party when that third party has already provided indemnification to the Department. This bill would remove the duplicative municipal indemnification statement as a requirement for being issued a special event permit as long as other legal requirements are met.
  • Today's webinar with Post & Schell explored the legal challenges facing employers regarding the COVID vaccine and their employees—watch it on-demand here.
  • The Small Business Administration today announced it will open its $25 billion Targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance grant program to millions more small businesses in the coming days. 
  • On June 11, from 4:30-7 p.m., PRLA, in partnership with Temple Health and the William Penn Foundation, will be holding a free vaccine clinic in conjunction with the Fishtown District's Reopening Celebration. MORE INFO
  • Sen. Scott Martin (R, Lancaster) today announced that he is forming an exploratory committee to run for the Republican nomination for governor in 2022. 

June 7
  • During the pandemic summer of 2020, teen summer employment plunged to its lowest level since the Great Recession, erasing a decade's worth of slow gains, according to Pew Research Center's latest analysis of federal employment data. While more teens work in the summers (at least in non-pandemic years), but at lower rates than in past decades. 
  • The restaurant industry added 186,000 jobs in May, according to federal data released on Friday, June 4. One out of every three jobs the economy added in May was in the restaurant industry, according to U.S. Department of Labor data. However, the industry remains 1.5 million workers short of its pre-pandemic highs. 
  • Meanwhile, restaurants are turning to on-demand hiring apps during the current labor squeeze to cover short-term staffing needs. 
  • PRLA member Post & Schell will be presenting two webinars this week. The first is June 8 at 10 a.m. tailored at navigating the legal challenges around the vaccine for employees. The second is June 9 at 11 a.m. to discuss Pennsylvania's relatively new salary threshold law.
  • The latest Restaurant Business Bottom Line column discusses the pandemic's impact on commercial areas as several studies have indicated many office workers continue telecommuting.  
  • One positive takeaway from the latest CBRE Hotels Advisory US Hotel Outlook, released today, is that Q1 2021 will likely mark the last quarter of RevPAR declines for the U.S. hotel industry during the COVID-induced downcycle. Recent improvements in demand, air travel, operational viability, and asset pricing indicate that a recovery is firmly underway.
  • Restaurant Accounting Services Inc. breaks down why restaurants should market valuable business meal write-offs and how to do so effectively. 
  • Analysis by the Commonwealth Foundation, and reported by CBS21, indicates that of the federal money funneled into Pennsylvania via CARES Act and American Rescue Plan money, that public education has accounted for over 29% (or $10.1 billion). Healthcare came in second with 24%, or $8.2 billion, for funding helping hospitals and providers. 
  • The City of Philadelphia today launched the Philly Vax Sweepstakes, a series of three citywide drawings designed to give Philadelphians extra motivation to get their COVID-19 vaccination. A total of 36 fully vaccinated residents will win cash prizes up to $50,000. 
  • ICYMI: PRLA has partnered with 15toknow and Peddler's Village for a vaccine clinic for the hospitality industry on June 7 from 4-7 p.m. at the Cock'n Bull Restaurant. The first 100 participants will receive a $20 gift card. Walk-ins welcome! MORE DETAILS

June 4
  • The U.S. Labor Department released the May jobs report this morning. U.S. employers added 559,000 jobs, up from 278,000 jobs in April but down from the estimates of 675,000. The unemployment rate fell to 5.8%, its lowest rate since March 2020.  
  • The Independent Fiscal Office today issued a new monthly publication that tracks Pennsylvania's labor market. The latest payroll jobs data show that Pennsylvania employment gains have stagnated. 
  • The Philadelphia Department of Health has clarified that while you must continue to wear a mask indoors, you are able to stand and consume food and beverages without a mask.
  • The Biden Administration released a fiscal year 2022 budget proposal on May 28 that adjusts tax rates on businesses and high-income individuals to finance both traditional physical infrastructure projects and human infrastructure projects. 
  • ICYMI: PRLA has partnered with 15toknow and Peddler's Village for a vaccine clinic for the hospitality industry on June 7 from 4-7 p.m. at the Cock'n Bull Restaurant. The first 100 participants will receive a $20 gift card. Walk-ins welcome! MORE DETAILS​

June 3
  • In the spring issue of Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Matters, PRLA's quarterly magazine, we review the PRLA's 3-year legislative plan, highlight the PA ProStart Competition results, and preview the Fall Conference. 
  • The cyberattack on JBS, the world's largest meatpacking company, could cause pain for restaurants if the situation isn't resolved quickly, analysts say. 
  • The number of Americans applying for jobless aid continues to drop, signaling that the job market is recovering as more people get vaccinated and consumers resume normal activities. Half of U.S. states have ended increased jobless benefits in a bid to push people into the job market. In Pa., the work search requirement returns on July 19, and the extended benefits are set to expire in September.
  • PRLA has partnered with 15toknow and Peddler's Village for a vaccine clinic for the hospitality industry on June 7 from 4-7 p.m. at the Cock'n Bull Restaurant. The first 100 participants will receive a $20 gift card. Walk-ins welcome! MORE DETAILS
  • As the cicada Brood X emerges, the Food & Drug Administration tweeted a reminder that individuals with seafood allergies should not eat cicadas as they share a family relation to shrimp and lobsters. 
  • The Anthony Bourdain documentary, Roadrunner, gets its first trailer. The feature is set to hit theaters on July 16. 
  • The National Restaurant Association explains what you need to know about PPP loan forgiveness and walks readers through how to get lenders to approve your PPP loan forgiveness applications.
  • Amtrak is bringing back the traditional dining car, but only to a select few trains along western U.S. routes. 
  • The latest episode of CravePhilly, a video and story series by Hope Cohen and presented by Billy Penn, is dedicated to Lateefah Curtis, a celebrated local mixologist and entrepreneur, who died in April 2021.

June 2
  • On today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund was a topic of discussion. More than 360,000 businesses requested $75 billion in funding from the program. The PRLA & National Restaurant Association are urging policymakers in Washington to replenish the fund. Join us by texting 'MORERELIEF' to 52886 or by signing the petition.
  • The Morning Consult released its latest weekly findings on public sentiment regarding indoor and outdoor dining. Key takeaways include:
    • Comfort dining out is higher than ever with 67% of all adults saying they feel comfortable going to a restaurant.
    • Comfort with outdoor dining is still significantly higher than indoor dining with 74% saying they feel safe sitting down for a meal outside.
    • Takeout is the most popular dining option but on-premises is more common than delivery.
  • Krispy Kreme, the 83-year-old doughnut company, is going public. The company filed a Form S-1 with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday. 
  • Pa.'s unemployment compensation system goes offline tonight at 9 p.m. through June 7 as the state prepares to roll out its new UC system.
  • The tick-tock on TikTok for restaurants. The short-video platform shows growing strength as a marketing tool to reach 18- to 29-year-olds.
  • Philadelphia is anticipating a restaurant boom in the second half of 2021 because of pent-up demand, cheaper rent, and a sense of optimism as life returns to some level of normal writes Michael Klein of the Philadelphia Inquirer. 
  • After $800 billion in loans, PPP comes to an end. The program stopped accepting applications on Monday but is still processing requests in hand. It provided a lifeline to more than 450,000 restaurants and hotels.
  • ICYMI: The PLCB issued updated guidance on Friday, May 28 to reflect most of the Governor’s COVID-19 mitigation measures expiring at 12:01 a.m. on May 31, 2021, except for the Order Requiring Universal Face Coverings.

June 1
  • The PLCB issued updated guidance on Friday, May 28 to reflect most of the Governor’s COVID-19 mitigation measures expiring at 12:01 a.m. on May 31, 2021, except for the Order Requiring Universal Face Coverings.
  • PRLA's Chapter Meetings are returning live and in person beginning in June. Check out the PRLA events calendar to register for your local chapter's next meeting. See you soon!
  • Food safety and sanitation are always a top priority in the restaurant industry. Share how your business is committed to safe food service practices to help us celebrate National Food Safety Month this September. Visit: www.prla.org/foodsafety
  • Missed your chance at a Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant? Don't be so sure. Restaurant Business reports restaurateurs whose applications won't be considered before the $29 billion fund runs out would have a shot at quickly collecting if Congress replenishes the pool.
    • The NRA and PRLA are urging policymakers in Washington to pursue creative ways to replenish the RRF and ensure that it maximizes relief for small independent and franchise restaurant operators. Join us by texting 'MORERELIEF' to 52886.
  • Under the OSH Act, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Learn more about the roles of employers and workers in responding to COVID-19 with this HR Tidbit from PRLA preferred partner FocusHRO. | HR TIDBIT - COVID & OSHA

May 28
  • Reminder: Effective Monday, May 31 at 12:01 AM, all statewide COVID-19 restrictions related to gatherings, restaurants, and other businesses (except masking) will be lifted.
    • Philadelphia's "Safer at Home" restrictions will end, with the exception of mask requirements, on Friday, June 11. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Cheryl Bettigole said the city could pull back indoor mask-wearing as early as Jun. 11 if the numbers continue to trend in the right direction.
    • The commonwealth's mask order will be lifted by June 28 or when 70 percent of adults get their second dose, whichever comes first.
  • Congratulations to Bill Kohl, Principal of Greenwood Hospitality Group, on being nominated for the IFMA 2021 Silver Plate Award in Hotels & Lodging. Bill is a Past Chairman and current board member of PRLA, as well as a Board Member Emeritus of the National Restaurant Association and a current board member of the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation.
  • PRLA's Northeastern Chapter is hosting a Baseball Night at PNC field on Tuesday, June 15. Come out for an evening of family fun as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders take on the Syracuse Mets! Tickets include tailgate party (sponsored by Barley Creek Brewing Company and The Frogtown Chophouse) & Skybox Suite seats. Proceeds benefit the PRLAEF. | RESERVE YOUR SEAT
  • As mitigation lifts and new hires are made to meet the increased business, don’t forget that PRLA offers ServSafe classes around the state. Make sure your employees are trained to keep food safety top of mind.
  • We wish everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. The Daily Update will return on Tuesday, June 1.

May 27
  • The Pa. Department of Health today announced that the commonwealth's mask order will be lifted by June 28 or when 70 percent of adults get their second dose, whichever comes first. 
  • The Small Business Administration testified at a House Small Business oversight hearing on Capitol Hill this week, sharing some remarkable data on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund program:
    • More than 372,000 applications submitted
    • $76 billion in funding requested
    • 208,000 applications received from the "priority access" communities
  • Technomic released the April TIndex (Technomic Index), an index that provides a benchmark to help analysts and industry leaders track the health of the foodservice industry in the U.S. The April TIndex increased to 94.6 from 94.1 in March.
  • The hotel industry is still 3 million jobs short of where it was before the pandemic. AHLA recently announced the Save Hotel Jobs Act in partnership with Unite Here. The bill provides a lifeline to hotel workers and hoteliers.  Act Now and send a letter to your member of Congress asking them to support the Save Hotel Jobs bill.
  • Effective June 1, PECO is offering increased incentives on high-efficiency lighting and equipment upgrades. Take control of your energy costs and get your business on track for savings by visiting peco.com/business.










May 26
  • At a news conference in Lancaster today, Gov. Wolf said he won't lift the COVID-19 restrictions until Memorial Day, despite requests to do so earlier. 
  • The National Restaurant Association recently added an RRF grant Budget Tracking Tool (link to download), developed in partnership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, to help RRF recipients track expenses and ensure compliance. The Next Steps Guide will walk you through the proper use of funds. 
  • Today, Rep. Todd Polinchock (R-Bucks) introduced legislation in partnership with PRLA that would add money to the CHIRP grant program. It also would dedicate federal assistance to grants that would be used to further support restaurants and lodging and expand the program to entities previously denied grants.
  • The National Restaurant Association today sent letters to the U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, and National Conference of State Legislatures to outline ways leaders at the state and local levels can enact meaningful policy initiatives to help restaurants recover and thrive. 
  • Congratulations to PRLA member Wyndham Garden State College/Boalsburg for being honored with the "Wyndham Garden Hotel of the Year" award, which is granted annually to the top-performing hotel in the entire chain.
  • Paytronix released its annual Order & Delivery Report, which examines trends across the digital ordering landscape. In 2020, takeout and delivery moved from the exception to the norm. DOWNLOAD REPORT
  • PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation announced a $1 million commitment to provide support to the Asian American community through #StrongerTogether, a partnership with Asian American Business Development Center, NRAEF, NRA, and the Asian American Foundation.

May 25
  • The Pa. House State Government Committee today reported out HR 106 (Benninghoff—R, Centre) with a party-line vote. The resolution eliminates certain portions of the current emergency declaration, including the governor's ability to suspend business operations, institute a stay-at-home order, or have capacity limits on businesses. The Administration issued a statement in response to this vote.
  • Philadelphia City Council is moving legislation, sponsored by Councilperson Mark Squilla, that would regulate online home-sharing and short-term rentals in the City. The bill was reported out of committee unanimously.
  • The Restaurant Strong Fund just launched a new grant opportunity for restaurant operators with 5 or fewer locations in Philadelphia. GRANT INFO
  • Today, the House passed HB 1154 (Masser—R, Northumberland), which would allow restaurant and hotel licensee to sell mixed to-go, permanently, by a vote of 187-14. The bill moves over to the Senate for consideration.  
  • New York City restaurateur Danny Meyer's growth equity fund has led a $21.5 million investment in the labor-management platform 7shifts, as an explosion of growth and hiring across the industry is expected in the coming months.
  • Spotlight PA is reporting that after refusing to release details about wasted coronavirus vaccine, the Wolf Administration has reversed course and made public how many doses have been discarded by providers and why.
  • The Washington Post's Eli Rosenberg explores how the pandemic pushed restaurant workers over the edge. 
  • The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed fines ranging from $9,000 to $15,000 against five airline passengers who are accused of misconduct on flights. 
  • Last week, PRLA launched an Action Alert to urge support on a number of PRLA's liquor reform priorities. Take a moment to send a note to your state representatives and senators encouraging them to support and move these critical pieces of legislation. 

May 24
  • Pennsylvania will resume work search requirements in July for people receiving unemployment compensation, said acting labor and industry secretary Jennifer Berrier during a committee hearing today.
  • The Restaurant Revitalization Fund portal will close at 8 p.m. ET tonight, Monday, May 24. Sign the National Restaurant Association petition calling on federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund.
  • The Pa. Department of Health has dropped the lawsuits against 46 restaurants that defied the December indoor dining restrictions. However, the PLCE is expected to continue pursuing action against licensees who violated those orders.  
  • The U.S. Department of Homeland Security released an additional 22,000 H-2B visas and will begin accepting petitions tomorrow, May 25. Once the updated attestation forms are posted on the USCIS website you will be able to submit your application. It is expected that there will be significant demand on these limited visas, so we urge you to submit your complete information in a timely manner.
    • If DHS determines that demand exceeds the available visas within the first 5 days, they will institute a lottery to allocate the visas. 
    • Starting May 25, eligible employers who have already completed a test of the U.S. labor market to verify that there are no U.S. workers who are willing, qualified, and able to perform the seasonal nonagricultural work can file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, to seek additional H-2B workers.
    • They must submit an attestation with their petition to demonstrate their business is likely to suffer irreparable harm without a supplemental workforce. Additional details on eligibility and filing requirements are available in the temporary final rule and the Temporary Increase in H-2B Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2021 webpage.
  • The National Restaurant Association is hosting a webinar to cover PPP loan forgiveness tomorrow, May 25, at 2 p.m. for restaurants and hotels that used the program. REGISTER
  • Last week, PRLA launched an Action Alert to urge support on a number of PRLA's liquor reform priorities. Take a moment to send a note to your state representatives and senators encouraging them to support and move these critical pieces of legislation. 

May 21
  • Earlier this week, the Small Business Administration announced that the Restaurant Revitalization Fund portal will close at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, May 24. Sign the National Restaurant Association petition calling on federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. 
  • Yesterday, PRLA launched an Action Alert to urge support on a number of PRLA's liquor reform priorities. Take a moment to send a note to your state representatives and senators encouraging them to support and move these critical pieces of legislation. 
  • Here’s an HR Tidbit from preferred partner FocusHRO on vaccinations for employees. Their Support+ program provides on-demand help from HR professionals, and the resources you need to be successful. FocusHRO offers employee benefits, insurances for your business and is your partner for all things Human Resources.
  • Act now to send a letter to your congressional representatives urging their support of the Save Hotel Jobs Act.  
  • PRLA issued an Action Alert to encourage Pennsylvania representatives and senators to support several of our liquor reform priorities.

May 20
  • PRLA issued an Action Alert to encourage Pennsylvania representatives and senators to support several of our liquor reform priorities.
  • Gov. Tom Wolf today extended the COVID-19 disaster declaration because the previous declaration expired today. The earliest the Legislature could begin the process of ending Wolf's disaster declaration is after the primary election results are certified, which is not expected to happen until June 7. 
  • As New York City reopens dining rooms, New York Times restaurant critic Pete Wells discusses what patrons missed most about going to restaurants (hint: it wasn't the food). 
  • Pennsylvania is reporting that 50% of adults are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Wolf Administration says it will lift an order requiring unvaccinated people to wear masks in public once 70% of Pennsylvanians aged 18 and older are fully vaccinated.
  • New data from the National Restaurant Association shows that the number of restaurants closed permanently during the pandemic is less than previously anticipated. The association finds that 14% (or about 90,000) restaurants nationwide closed permanently, which is significantly lower than projections early in the pandemic of 30-75% of restaurants.
  • Philadelphia's Committee on Labor and Civil Service today unanimously approved bill #210421, which would mandate increased wages for employees at the Philadelphia International Airport, as well as require employers to help pay for health benefits. PRLA sent a letter to Councilmember Johnson, the bill's sponsor, addressing some of our questions and concerns. Councilmember Parker, who chairs the committee, and Councilmember Johnson both made statements at today's hearing indicating they are aware of our concerns and will work with us to address them as they work through this legislation.
  • The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!

May 19
  • Pennsylvania voters passed the constitutional amendments that limit the governor's emergency powers. The Morning Call is reporting that Gov. Wolf is now ready to talk to Republicans about the COVID-19 disaster declaration.
    • Please note: Even though the referendums passed, it doesn't mean the emergency declaration/mitigation is over. Business owners should continue to operate under the current guidelines and mitigation. 
  • The Small Business Administration announced that the Restaurant Revitalization Fund portal will close at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, May 24.
  • Philadelphia's acting health commissioner led the city's press conference today, providing an update on mask-wearing. Starting Friday, May 21, fully vaccinated Philadelphians no longer will be required to wear a mask outside. The Philadelphia Department of Commerce published this infographic depicting the updated changes to the Safer At Home mitigation that take effect on May 21.
    • Please note: The city has announced that 3-feet of distance will be required between seats in restaurants as of May 21. However, the state guidance of 6 feet of distance is in effect until May 31. Businesses must follow the most restrictive guidance, which is 6 feet of distance (until May 31). 
  • CHIRP funds remain for hospitality businesses in Northumberland, Snyder, Juniata, Mifflin, Columbia, Clinton, and Montour counties. Eligible businesses in those seven counties have until June 15 to apply for those funds. 
  • If you missed this morning's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch the session on-demand here. 
  • Former PRLA chairman Kevin Joyce today announced that his Pittsburgh restaurant, The Carlton, will close after 37 years in business. He is hosting the Final Pour on May 27, a tasting event and wine sale from the restaurant's well-known and extensive wine collection. 
  • Corey Mintz of Eater.com breaks down how a New York City restaurant loses money on a $14 sandwich. 
  • The Pa. Department of Labor & Industry recently reiterated that the extended benefits program for individuals collecting unemployment benefits will end the week of September 4.
  • Yesterday, Brand USA President & CEO Chris Thompson testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion regarding reviving international travel and tourism to create and restore jobs. Watch the recording here.
  • The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!

May 18
  • Today is Primary Election Day! The polls are open until 8 p.m. Regardless of your party affiliation, you can vote on the ballot questions. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 
  • Yesterday, the National Restaurant Association released the newly revised COVID-19 Operating Guidance. New to this update: the CDC's newest guidance for vaccinated people. OSHA, however, still requires that employers protect employees from the risk of virus transmission.
  • The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board today released updated guidance for licensees relative to COVID-19 operational requirements to reflect changes for discrete indoor and outdoor events. Please note:  Pennsylvania's COVID-19 mitigation requirements for restaurants and events, including social distancing of 6 feet, remain in effect until 12:01 a.m. on May 31.  
  • Join us tomorrow at 11 a.m. for the Industry Update with Melissa Bova as she discusses the next steps for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, the results of today's election and referendum questions, and the impact of the CDC's new guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals. 
  • Philadelphia's Pyramid Club is hosting a virtual panel discussion on May 19 at noon featuring food and beverage leaders from the community on the pivots and shifts made over the course of the pandemic to keep the lights on. REGISTER
  • The Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center is hosting a webinar on Monday, May 24 at noon on marketing and social media for restaurant operators. REGISTER
  • The U.S. Department of Labor's Pennsylvania Bureau of Labor Law Compliance will be holding a webinar on May 27 at 9 a.m. to review federal and state regulations regarding youth employment. If you are planning on hiring teens this summer to fill some of your open positions, you should attend this webinar. Topics covered include work permits, recordkeeping requirements, hours/occupations standards for 14 & 15-year-olds, and the Hazardous Occupation Orders. REGISTER
  • The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!
  • The Pittsburgh Pirates today announced that PNC Park will be opened to full capacity by July 1. 

May 17
  • The new federal guidelines on mask-wearing are putting businesses and local officials in a difficult spot, reports The Hill. AHLA today released a statement on the updated CDC mask guidance while Nation's Restaurant News explores the dilemma faced by restaurant operators.
  • Relaxed restrictions for gatherings and events took effect this morning across Pennsylvania (except in Philadelphia), and all COVID-19 mitigation will lift on May 31. Last week, PRLA sent a letter to the Wolf Administration urging them to lift the restrictions before Memorial Day. 
  • Philadelphia employers included in the Philadelphia Fair Workweek law will be required to start offering predictability pay starting on June 1, 2021. The pay for tipped workers has been updated to reflect their current rate of pay. 
  • A new survey from OpenTable and the James Beard Foundation found that consumers are prepared to return to restaurants, but they still want robust takeout and delivery options. 
  • The National Restaurant Association Show last week announced the 2021 Food & Beverage Awards (FABI) that reflect some of the current trends driving the industry, including plant-based eating, zero-alcohol beverages, and global flavors. 
  • Research done by S2G Ventures last year highlighted some of the ways the pandemic exacerbated already weak links in the food supply chain. One thing the research revealed was the advantage tech-forward players had against those that were forced to play catch-up when the pandemic hit. SmartBrief takes a look at what changes brought on by the pandemic are here to stay. 
  • PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today!
  • The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!
  • Tomorrow is Primary Election Day! Regardless of your party affiliation, you can vote on the ballot questions. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 

May 14
  • With the CDC’s announcement yesterday updating mask-wearing guidelines for fully vaccinated people, staff and customers who are fully vaccinated no longer need to wear masks. However, this update does not prevent any individual business from requiring employees or guests, even those who are fully vaccinated, to wear a mask. Additionally, it is not the business's responsibility to enforce the guidelines. Individual businesses must make the best decision for their operation. 
  • The Pa. Department of Health today also reiterated that it is up to individual businesses whether or not to require masks at their business. 
  • PRLA has prepared a simple sign reflecting these new guidelines that businesses can post on their door to replace the sign from the original mask mandate.
  • Nation's Restaurant News today reported that industry groups were still assessing the impact of the guidance changes. The AP is reporting that states and businesses are in the process of sorting out what the new CDC mask guidance means. 
  • PRLA today sent a letter to the Pennsylvania Legislature outlining a suggested list of uses it should consider when appropriating the American Rescue Plan funds allocated to the commonwealth. 
  • Philadelphia Councilwoman Cherelle Parker has introduced legislation decreasing the parking tax from 22.5 percent to 17 percent.
  • The National Amusement Park Historical Association has released the results of a 2020 survey of their members, ranking the top amusement parks in the nation on a variety of categories. Kennywood Park (West Mifflin) and Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg) tied for first place for Favorite Traditional Park—congratulations! 
  • PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today!
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!
  • A recent study from Franklin & Marshall College's Center for Opinion Research may indicate the way the May 18 ballot questions are worded could have an effect on how people interpret the questions. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 

​May 13
  • Late this afternoon, Mayor Jim Kenney announced that he has asked the city's Health Commissioner, Dr. Thomas Farley, to resign, effective immediately, over the handling of MOVE victims' remains. READ MORE
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today announced that it is easing indoor mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people. The guidance says fully vaccinated individuals can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, including local business and workplace guidance. Zeke Miller and Michael Balsamo from the AP said the easing guidance is likely to open the door to confusion since there is no surefire way for businesses or others to distinguish between those fully vaccinated and those who are not. 
  • On March 16, 2021, the Pennsylvania Secretary of Health amended the commonwealth’s mask order by adding language directing to the CDC’s guidance for fully vaccinated people to allow for no face coverings. That means that today’s CDC guidelines automatically go into effect in Pennsylvania. Masking requirements will still be in place for unvaccinated individuals until 70 percent of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated.
  • Today, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed into law a bill that permits outdoor entertainment. The bill, introduced by Councilperson Gilmore Richardson and passed unanimously by City Council, allows for restaurants with outdoor dining permits to apply for a city permit through the Philadelphia Streets Department to provide outdoor entertainment. The law is effective immediately. 
  • The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 473,000, a new pandemic low, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Labor. With hiring up, vaccinations increasing, and the economy accelerating, consumers have grown more confident and, on average, are flush with cash after limiting their spending during the pandemic. 
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association launched a petition calling on all federal lawmakers to add funding to the Restaurant Relief Fund. SIGN TODAY!
  • A recent study from Franklin & Marshall College's Center for Opinion Research may indicate the way the May 18 ballot questions are worded could have an effect on how people interpret the questions. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 

May 12
​May 11
  • The Wolf Administration today announced that event and gathering maximum occupancy limits will be increased to 50% for indoor events/gatherings and 75% for outdoor events/gatherings, effective Monday, May 17 at 12:01 a.m. Event and gathering limits will be completely lifted on Monday, May 31 at 12:01 a.m. 
  • The City of Philadelphia today announced further relaxation of the current Safer-at-Home restrictions beginning May 21. Additionally, the Health Department announced that all Safer-at-Home restrictions will be ending, with the exception of mask-wearing, on Friday, June 11. Today's press release details all of the changes to the guidelines.
    • Notable Changes for Restaurants:
      • Distance between chair backs will be reduced to 3 feet.
      • The requirement for alcohol to be served with food will end.
    • Notable Changes for Catered Events:
      • Indoor catered events will be allowed at 25% occupancy
        • A maximum of 250 persons (including staff) if there will be no dancing, music, or alcohol.
        • A maximum of 150 persons (including staff) if there will be dancing, music, or alcohol.
      • Outdoor catered events can operate at 50% occupancy with no cap on the number of persons attending.
  • The SBA announced it has awarded 16,000 Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants in the amount of $2 billion. The funding could appear in bank accounts as early as today. The National Restaurant Association reported on statistics from the first 36 hours of the application being open:
    • More than 186,000 entities from all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico applied for the RRF.
    • More than half of the applications came from entities owned by women, veterans, socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, or some combination of the three.
    • More than 30% of the applications came from businesses with under $500,000 in annual pre-pandemic revenue, representing some of the smallest restaurants and bars in America. 
  • President Biden announced today that starting May 24, Uber and Lyft will offer everyone in America free rides to vaccination sites. 
  • There is just one week until the May 18 primary election in Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, you can only vote for the candidates in the same political party you have named in your voter registration. However, all voters, regardless of affiliation, will be able to cast their vote on the four ballot questions. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 

May 10
  • In the latest Bottom Line, Restaurant Business editor Jonathan Maze identifies several factors contributing to the staffing difficulties the industry faces. 
  • PRLA, the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, and the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association co-signed a letter to Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney urging him to set a reopening date for the city. 
  • Nearly half of Pennsylvania's state senators are urging Gov. Wolf to lift his COVID-19 mitigation orders on businesses the Friday before Memorial Day. 
  • Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser today announced that restaurants will be able to return to full capacity on Friday, May 21, while bars and nightclubs can reopen at 50% capacity. 
  • Rising corn prices could lead to higher costs for chicken and beef in the near future, furthering supply chain challenges as labor costs continue to rise. 
  • Join Temple University's School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management (STHM) for a panel discussion on May 13 at 7 p.m. to learn how three professionals advanced their career through its 100% online Master of Science in Travel & Tourism. Hear how these professionals have adapted to changes in the industry through the skills they developed in the program. More info & registration
  • Last week, Visit Bucks County presented its 2021 Dedicated Partner Award to the PRLA for our work supporting the industry throughout the pandemic. We are honored to be recognized with this award and look forward to continuing our work on behalf of the industry.

May 7
  • The National Restaurant Association today released its updated COVID-19 Operating Guidance, which incorporates information from the CDC, FDA, EPA, OSHA, as well as critical training recommendations for your employees. 
  • The U.S. Labor Department released the April jobs report this morning, showing that the U.S. economy brought back far fewer jobs than estimated. While the overall gains were far below anticipated, the leisure and hospitality sector saw employment trend higher in April. According to the National Restaurant Association, restaurants added a net 187,000 jobs in April.  
  • Skift.com is reporting that hotels added 54,000 jobs in April – the biggest monthly gain since last September – and hotel unemployment dropped to 13.8% from 19.9%  seen in March. While hotels have run well above the national unemployment rate average for the duration of the pandemic, this is the narrowest gap between the two figures since the start of the crisis.
  • PennLive.com reported that the state House Liquor Control Committee unanimously approved the mixed drinks to-go bill, which is one of PRLA's priority bills.
  • The Paycheck Protection Program ran out of funding for most small businesses on Tuesday, nearly four weeks early, but about $8 billion is still available through community financial institutions, which lend to underserved groups such as women and minorities.
  • After leading the DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity list in 2020, Marriott International was named to the DiversityInc Hall of Fame, as the first hospitality company joining previously number one ranked companies.
  • Philadelphia's relaxed restrictions on indoor dining, catered events, and non-catered events and gatherings take effect today. All of Philadelphia's mitigation guidelines can be found here: Full Philadelphia Guidelines.

​May 6
  • PA ProStart today announced the results for the management and culinary divisions of the 2021 Pennsylvania ProStart Student Competition. This year's competition was held virtually and we thank the students, teachers, school districts, volunteer judges, and sponsors for making it happen. Click the school name for more information on their winning entry!
  • AHLA recently announced the Save Hotel Jobs Act in partnership with Unite Here. The bill provides a lifeline to hotel workers and hoteliers.  Act Now and send a letter to your member of Congress asking them to support the Save Hotel Jobs bill.
  • Part-time and full-time team members can now access affordable personal health insurance for themselves and their families through a new program. Individual and family plans require no employer participation or contributions. More information is available at www.hospitality-health.com/PRLA.   
  • Tomorrow, May 7, Philadelphia's relaxed restrictions take effect:
    • Indoor dining capacity increases to 75% for restaurants that meet the enhanced ventilation standards (50% for those that don't) and the maximum table size increases to 6.
    • Outdoor dining maximum table size increases to 10.
    • Indoor catered events are now permitted up to a 25% occupancy with a cap of 75 people.
    • Other non-catered events now align with the state capacity guidelines (25% indoors/50% outdoors).
    • Full Philadelphia Guidelines
  • When voters head to the polls on May 18 for the primary election, they will be voting on three potential amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 
  • ICYMI:  Earlier this spring, the IRS issued guidance for a temporary exception allowing businesses a 100% tax deduction for food or beverages from restaurants. 

May 5
  • Today, President Biden got lunch at Taqueria Las Gemelas in Washington, D.C., and delivered some good news: They were the first restaurant approved for the RRF in the country. The Administration released a statement articulating their support for restaurants and bars. 
  • In the first two days of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, 186,000 restaurants, bars, and other eligible businesses applied for relief. The National Restaurant Association has prepared an FAQ document and step-by-step guide to help operators interested in applying for a grant. 
  • This morning's Industry Update webinar with Melissa Bova reviewed the Wolf Administration's announcement that all mitigation except for wearing masks will be lifted on May 31.
  • While Philadelphia announced it would not immediately follow the commonwealth in reducing restrictions, several changes to the city's mitigation do take effect on Friday, May 7. Review Philadelphia Guidance Documents to stay up-to-date on what's required. 
  • Today, the state House Commerce Committee moved several bills out of committee:
    • HB 878 (Struzzi) would create a grant program for entertainment venues
    • HB 537 (Ciresi) would create a grant program for small businesses
    • HB 977 (Millard) would ban any governor from mandating specific occupancy restrictions for an establishment during any disaster declaration
  • Cumberland Valley is hosting a virtual town hall to discuss restarting tourism as we emerge from the pandemic on May 20 at 10 a.m. 
  • Restaurant Hospitality: 9 ideas to generate new sources of revenue for independent restaurants.
  • Restaurant Business: Third-party delivery companies are under fire again. 
  • Constellation brand Corona beer kicked off its Cinco de Mayo fiesta, #CincoForGood, with a $1 million donation to the NRAEF's Restaurants Advance program, a career and training program for industry employees. 

May 4
  • This afternoon, Gov. Wolf announced via press release that mitigation orders except for masking will be lifted on Monday, May 31 at 12:01 a.m. The current order requiring mask-wearing will be lifted when 70% of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated.
  • PRLA, through our partners at Food Shelter PR, issued a statement in response to today's announcement, which was picked up by PennLive, 6ABCPhilly, LevittownNow, and more. 
  • Philadelphia Health Commissioner Farley said during today's briefing that the city will not immediately follow the commonwealth in reducing restrictions. Philadelphia Guidance Documents
  • Pennsylvania's announcement comes on the heels of similar announcements in New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and Connecticut. 
  • The Greater Berks Development Fund has opened the second round of CHIRP and it continues until 5 p.m. on May 17. Only one application is allowed under CHIRP. Owners with a second business may apply in round 2. INFO & APPLY
  • Two bills we are tracking moved out of their respective committees today. 
    • The House Labor & Industry Committee voted to advance HB 406 (Cox), which would reinstate the work-search requirement to continue receiving unemployment compensation benefits. 
    • The House Liquor Control Committee today unanimously voted to advance HB 1154 (Masser), which would permanently allow bars and restaurants to sell mixed drinks to-go. The bill was amended in committee to carve out grocery and convenience stores.
  • Pittsburgh City Council will be taking up legislation that would place restrictions on single-use plastic bags in the city. The legislation is sponsored by Councilmember Erika Strassburger and will be discussed during council's committee meeting tomorrow at 10 a.m.
  • Jim Sullivan talks hiring and retention strategies in his latest article for Nation's Restaurant News, titled "Can the restaurant industry labor crisis ever be solved?"
  • President Joe Biden today set a new goal of delivering at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to 70% of American adults by July 4.
  • Join Valley Forge Tourism for their next Sales & Marketing virtual event on May 11 at 3 p.m., which will include special guest speaker, PRLA VP of Government Affairs Melissa Bova. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: The SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund application is open and applications are likely to exceed available funds. The National Restaurant Association is urging those interested in applying to do so immediately and has prepared resources to help you through the process.
    • An updated FAQ document with the latest guidance from the SBA
    • A new step-by-step guide to completing an RRF grant application, including the documentation you will need to document your gross receipts
    • An archive of past webinars
  • May the Fourth be with you.

May 3
  • The SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund application opened today at noon. As expected, the site has received a high volume of traffic leading the SBA to tweet this afternoon that if you received the following message: "Your application failed the Knowledge Based Authentication (KBA) Validation," your place in line is reserved and you will be able to complete your application shortly. 
  • The National Restaurant Association is cautioning operators that the number of applications will exceed the available funds and urging those interested in applying to do so today. The NRA has updated several resources for restaurant owners completing grant applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund:
    • An updated FAQ document with the latest guidance from the SBA
    • A new step-by-step guide to completing an RRF grant application, including the documentation you will need to document your gross receipts
    • An archive of past webinars
  • Restaurants in Cumberland, Dauphin, and York counties are invited to attend a town hall with experts from the SBA and hosted by Congressman Scott Perry to discuss the RRF tomorrow, May 4, at 10 a.m. REGISTER
  • New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy today announced the lifting of restrictions, including limits on indoor dining and outdoor gatherings, on May 19. 
  • Tomorrow, the state House Liquor Control Committee is scheduled to consider HB 1154 (Masser), which would make mixed drinks to-go permanent. The House Labor & Industry Committee is scheduled to consider HB 406 (Cox), which would reinstate the work-search requirement to continue receiving unemployment compensation benefits. 
  • The City of Philadelphia today released a clarification of their bar seating policy by no longer requiring a protective barrier between bartenders and patrons if the bar staff serving patrons are wearing both a face mask and face shield. The requirement for social distancing between parties seated at the bar remains. Philadelphia Guidance Documents
  • Eater.com explores the multifaceted issues contributing to the industry labor shortage. Meanwhile, the editors of Restaurant Business round up the recruitment ideas they have encountered in their reporting.
  • U.S. Travel Association has kicked off National Travel & Tourism Week (May 2-8) by providing a toolkit of resources to share with the media, elected officials, and the public to illustrate how the Power of Travel will help drive America's recovery.
  • The Pa. Supreme Court today picked a former Pitt chancellor to chair the powerful redistricting commission. The Court appointed Mark Nordenberg after the four legislative leaders on the commission failed to agree on a fifth member. 
  • Officials with the Little League today announced that the 2021 Little League World Series events will take place in August, but this year's tournament will be U.S. teams only. 

April 30
  • The SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund opened account registration today at 9 a.m. The SBA  reported that more than 41,000 restaurant operators signed up within the first hour. The application opens on Monday, May 3 at noon. Even if you do not qualify for the 21-day priority period, you should submit your grant application as early as possible. 
  • The National Restaurant Association updated several resources for restaurant owners completing grant applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund:
    • An updated FAQ document with the latest guidance from the SBA
    • A new step-by-step guide to completing an RRF grant application, including the documentation you will need to document your gross receipts
    • An archive of past webinars
  • Monday, May 3 is also the last day to register to vote in the May 18 primary election. Applications for a mail-in or absentee ballot must be received by your county election board by 5 p.m. on May 11. 
  • When voters head to the polls on May 18 for the primary election, they will be voting on three potential amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 
  • Restaurant delivery is booming but it's still a challenge for many to make money. GrubHub had a record-setting quarter but still lost money. 
  • The U.S. Real ID deadline has been pushed back to May 2023 because of COVID-19. 
  • Rite Aid announced that COVID-19 vaccines are available at all of its 2,500+ stores found in 17 states. 

​April 29
  • Restaurant Business editor Peter Romeo provides 4 takeaways from President Biden's address to Congress that hold particular import for the restaurant industry.
  • The National Restaurant Association updated several resources for restaurant owners completing grant applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund:
  • The Restaurant Revitalization Fund site goes live on Monday, May 3 at noon but pre-registration starts tomorrow at 9 a.m. Even if you do not qualify for the 21-day priority period, you should submit your grant application as early as possible. 
  • On Tuesday, April 27, the PRLA Policy Committee met to discuss and amend the association's legislative strategy.  
  • Yesterday, the AHLA announced the Save Hotel Jobs Act in partnership with Unite Here. The bill provides a lifeline to hotel workers and hoteliers. AHLA has issued an Action Alert for you to encourage your elected officials' support of this critical legislation. 
  • New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced the city would "fully reopen" on July 1.
  • Chicken is in such high demand at restaurants across the nation that it is getting increasingly difficult for companies to find it. 
  • Erie County today announced that 100% of the county's CHIRP funding has been allocated to 124 hospitality businesses which averaged around $24,000 in individual grants. 
  • Rite Aid is hosting a vaccine clinic on May 8 at the William D. Kelley School. The clinic flyer has details on registration and timing. 
  • PRLA extends its condolences to the family and friends of Lateefah Curtis, a popular bartender at Philadelphia's Vernick and entrepreneur who passed away unexpectedly over the weekend. When the pandemic forced Vernick to close, Curtis started her own business, Paxon & Penn, curating cocktail mixers and kits, along with hosting happy hours and mixology events.  

April 28
  • AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers in partnership with D. Taylor of Unite Here held a joint press conference today announcing the "Save Hotel Jobs Act."
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bove, you can watch the session on-demand here. 
  • The Rachel Ray Foundation today announced that 27 high schools from around the nation were selected to receive ProStart Grow Grants. Each school will receive a $5,000 grant to be used to upgrade and expand the school's ProStart program. Congratulations to Pennsylvania's Greene County CTC in Waynesburg for being named one of the 27 schools!
  • Yesterday, the SBA announced the timeline and process for restaurants to apply for Restaurant Revitalization Fund (Spanish version) grants. Restaurants can begin registering for the program on Friday, April 30 at 9 a.m. The application opens on Monday, May 3 at noon. 
  • Constellation brand Corona beer kicks off its Cinco de Mayo fiesta, #CincoForGood, with a $1 million donation to the NRAEF's Restaurants Advance program. a career and training program for industry employees. 
  • Anyone who lives in or works in Philadelphia and is over the age of 16 is eligible to get a vaccine at either the Convention Center site or the Esperanza Health Center site. MORE INFO

April 27
  • This morning, the SBA officially announced new details on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and the timeline for applications. The SBA recommends qualifying applicants familiarize themselves with the application process in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient application experience, specifically by:
    • Registering for an account in advance at restaurants.sba.gov starting Friday, April 30 at 9 a.m.
    • Reviewing the official guidance, program guide, frequently asked questions, and application sample. ENGLISH | SPANISH
    • Preparing the required documentation in advance.
    • Working with a point-of-sale vendor or visiting restaurants.sba.gov to submit an application. Please note: applicants working with a POS vendor do not need to register in advance.
    • Applications will officially open on Monday, May 3 at noon.
  • This afternoon, Philadelphia Health Commissioner Farley relaxed restrictions on dining and events starting Friday, May 7. 
    • Indoor Dining
      • Capacity will increase to 75% for restaurants that meet the enhanced ventilation standards (50% for those that do not)
      • Maximum table size will increase from 4 to 6 and the requirement that everyone is from the same household is removed
    • Outdoor Dining
      • Maximum table size will increase to 10 (aligns with state guidelines)
    • Indoor Catered Events
      • Permitted up to 25% occupancy with a cap of 75 people 
      • Potential to increase the cap to 150 on May 21 but will be determined by case rates
    • Other Gatherings and Events (non-catered)
      • Will align with the state guidelines with indoor gathering and events increasing maximum capacity to 25% and outdoor gatherings and events increasing maximum capacity to 50%
  • The Pa. Senate Law & Justice Committee today passed the following bills out of committee:
    • HB 427 (Pyle): Increases the licensee discount to 15% for 3 years after the conclusion of the disaster declaration.
    • HB 425 (Dowling): Allows a licensee to sell unused wine and spirits if they close permanently. Further, it allows licensees to expand their outdoor seating area to a non-contiguous area and allows holders of an off-premise catering permit to have unlimited events and not be subject to the 5-hour time limit or renewal fee until December 31, 2022. Finally, the bill ensures safe-keeping fees will not be assessed until 2023.
    • SB 566 (Regan): Allows licenses that do not receive a bid from the current statewide "dead" license auction to be auctioned via a statewide auction. It also eliminates the requirement that a winning bid needs to be deposited within an escrow account within two weeks and allows the winning bidder to have 6 months to secure funds. 
  • DoorDash today announced pricing updates to provide more choice, flexibility, and transparency for local restaurants. Restaurants will have a choice of three different delivery commission price points with this new program.
  • Part-time and full-time team members can now access affordable personal health insurance for themselves and their families through a new program. Individual and family plans require no employer participation or contributions. More information is available at www.hospitality-health.com/PRLA.   
  • The CDC today updated its guidelines for individuals who are fully vaccinated. 
  • When voters head to the polls on May 18 for the primary election, they will be voting on three potential amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 

April 26
  • The Small Business Association's Shuttered Venue Operators grant program reopened today at noon. 
  • The Associated Press is reporting that continental Europe could allow US tourists back this summer. Over the weekend, the New York Times quoted Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as saying that fully vaccinated Americans will be able to visit EU countries. However, EU officials are in the process of completing plans to make that happen. 
  • The U.S. Census Bureau has confirmed that Pennsylvania will lose one of its seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. The New York Times and Washington Post also break down which other states gained or lost seats in the next Congress as a result of the 2020 Census.
  • Yelp released first quarter 2021 data for the Yelp Economic Average report, a benchmark of local economic strength in the U.S. The Q1 report shows more new businesses opening than at any other period over the last 12 months and business reopenings at the highest levels since Q2 2020.  
  • The Senate Law & Justice Committee is scheduled to consider a number of PRLA’s COVID recovery priorities tomorrow in an off-the-floor committee meeting. 
  • Eater Philly highlighted the Philly chefs who reinvented themselves during the pandemic and made the most out of a bad situation. 
  • The Delaware Valley Journal reported on the impact of Philadelphia's strict mitigation rules on the city's restaurants, including losing patrons to the suburbs. 
  • FSR Magazine explores how immigration and diversity are affecting the future of the restaurant industry. 
  • Lodging Magazine spoke with IHG Hotels & Resorts on successfully running hybrid meetings for the group/business segments. IHG was quick to point out that hybrid meetings are here to stay, even after COVID-19 is no longer a focus. 
  • ICYMI: The PRLA/NRA session with the SBA on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund is available on-demand. The SBA also has materials for the RRF available in English and Spanish, as well as the names of the point-of-sale (POS) service providers that can be used for Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant applications. There are some cross-eligibility constraints associated with RRF and other SBA COVID-19 relief options. This chart outlines the interactions. The SBA Western PA District Office will be holding informational sessions on the RRF next week. 

April 23
  • Philadelphia Health Commissioner Farley today announced that the city has relaxed some restrictions on indoor and outdoor dining, effective today.
    • Outdoor dining may be increased above 50 people but the operator must update their plan with the City
    • Bar seating is now permitted indoors and outdoors
      • Up to 4 people from the same household may sit together at the bar 
      • Barriers are required between guests and the bartender
      • Barriers are required between groups if they are not 6 feet from the next group
  • Today, the PRLA and National Restaurant Association co-hosted a webinar with the Small Business Administration about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. If you were unable to attend it live, the session is now available on-demand. 
  • Materials for the RRF are available in English and Spanish. There are some cross-eligibility constraints associated with RRF and other SBA COVID-19 relief options. This chart outlines the interactions. The SBA Western PA District Office will be holding informational sessions on the RRF next week. 
  • The Small Business Administration released the names of the point-of-sale (POS) service providers that can be used for Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant applications. It appears that Square and Toast will support the submission of an application but all will provide knowledge support and gross receipts documentation. 
    • Full-service Vendors (application submission): Square, Toast
    • Participating Vendors (supporting documentation): Clover, NCR
  • State Rep. Jim Cox, chairman of the House Labor & Industry Committee, has circulated a co-sponsorship memo stating his intention to introduce legislation to require the Department of Labor & Industry to reinstitute the work search and registration requirements for unemployment claims. 
  • Yesterday, PRLA hosted a webinar presented by employment & labor attorney Katharine Batista from Offit Kurman on vaccine considerations for employers. Next week, Offit Kurman is hosting a COVID-19 Vaccine Education Town Hall with Dr. John Porter for employees who want to learn more about the vaccine. 
  • Optum Health and the NRAEF is seeking input from employers on what support is needed to provide for the mental health needs of workers in the industry. This survey will shape the strategies, tools, and resources developed to address our industry's existing and emerging mental health needs. 
  • Congratulations to PRLA member Reading Terminal Market for being named the best public market in the U.S. by the USA Today 10Best list. 

​April 22
  • Gov. Wolf today signed HB 766 into law, aligning the annual state corporate tax deadline with the federal tax deadline of May 17, 2021, and giving the Pa. departments of Revenue and Community & Economic Development the ability to deal with state taxation while the COVID-19 disaster declaration is in effect. 
  • The U.S. House of Representatives today narrowly voted to make the District of Columbia the 51st state, sending it to the Senate where it faces Republican opposition. 
  • PRLA and our members attended the National Restaurant Association's virtual Public Affairs Conference this week. Over the two-day conference, 36 PRLA members participated in meetings with Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, staffing challenges, and immigration issues. 
  • Gov. Wolf addressed vaccine hesitancy and tying the loosening of restrictions to Pennsylvania's vaccination rate in a press conference yesterday.
  • If you missed today's webinar with employment and labor attorney Katharine Batista titled, "COVID-19 Vaccines for Your Employees: Issues & Options," you can access it on-demand here. 
  • ICYMI: The PRLA and National Restaurant Association are co-hosting a webinar with the Small Business Administration about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund on Friday, April 23 at noon. The SBA will discuss the application process and what operators should do to prepare prior to the fund opening. REGISTER 
  • PRLA extends its condolences to the family of George N. Gekas, a former Harrisburg restaurateur and founder of the Gazebo Room Salad Dressing & Marinade, who passed away earlier this week at age 88. 

April 21
  • The PRLA and National Restaurant Association are co-hosting a webinar with the Small Business Administration about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund on Friday, April 23 at noon. The SBA will discuss the application process and what operators should do to prepare prior to the fund opening. REGISTER 
  • The Small Business Administration today released its latest Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) report. Pennsylvania received more than 126,000 loans totaling more than $8.8 billion in funds, Nationally, the accommodation and food services sector accounted for 16% of the total dollars distributed ($38.42 billion). 
  • Philadelphia Business Journal reported yesterday that Philadelphia Health Commissioner said the city won't yet announce whether it will ease restrictions on hospitality businesses at the end of the month. 
  • Restaurant Business editor Jonathan Maze wrote in his latest "Bottom Line" column that business travel is expected to pick up this summer, which should help the higher-end restaurants that historically have relied on dine-in service and business travel. 
  • A new report by the Paris-based International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) suggests that global wine consumption dropped significantly over the past year. These findings were announced in OIV's annual State of the World Vitivinicultural Sector report. The pandemic's impact on the hospitality industry was a large factor in the overall decrease but the imposition of new trade barriers contributed, too. 
  • United Airlines today announced a new feature to help flyers prepare to travel as safely as possible amid the pandemic. Customers who need to take a COVID-19 test before boarding the plane for their destination can now easily schedule a test through its digital platform call Travel-Ready Center. 
  • Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced that the city will bring back last summer's "Saturday Nights in the City" initiative, which closed several city streets to traffic so patrons can enjoy dining al fresco, on May 1. 
  • Lodging magazine explores the impact of the pandemic on in-room entertainment. Restrictions forced travelers to spend more time in their guestroom over the last year, and a report by E3 In-Room Entertainment System Television found that across all sectors guests' TV viewership increased nearly 50% from August 2019 to August 2020. 
  • PRLA member PJW Restaurant Group announced the promotion of Jessica Breslow to chief operating officer. She previously led the group's information technology and marketing departments. 

April 20
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association released the results of its latest economic impact survey. Thanks to you, we had enough data for Pennsylvania-specific results. NATIONAL | PENNSYLVANIA 
  • The U.S. Department of Homeland Security today announced it would be releasing an additional 22,000 temporary, non-agricultural worker visas (H-2B). 
  • The House Republican Majority Policy Committee today released a report from a 2021 survey of small business owners in Pennsylvania. The purpose was to identify how businesses across the Commonwealth were impacted by the pandemic and what business owners need to recover. View the full Report on Economic Recovery. 
  • Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont yesterday announced that he would be lifting all pandemic-related restrictions on restaurants except for mask-wearing indoors when not dining on May 19. 
  • The Small Business Administration is moving closer to launching the Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant program with a seven-day pilot program slated to begin within the next two weeks. The National Restaurant Association will be scheduling a comprehensive webinar later this week for interested operators. Stay tuned to the Daily Update for the registration link.
  • The U.S. Department of State said this week it will be updating its travel advisories to better reflect travel guidance from the CDC. The update will result in about 80% of countries worldwide being under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the U.S.-Canada border closure was extended to at least May 21.
  • Restaurant leaders in New York and Philadelphia say delivery fee caps haven't hurt sales, despite a recent DoorDash report. 
  • Taco Bell yesterday announced that it would begin recycling its iconic hot sauce packets in partnership with New Jersey-based recycling company TerraCycle. It's part of a larger company initiative to make all of Taco Bell's consumer-facing packaging recyclable, compostable, or reusable by 2025.
  • Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University are developing a product to leverage the power of word-of-mouth marketing to drive growth in the restaurant sector. Business operators are invited to take a short survey to help the researchers better understand marketing pain points. All data collected is confidential and will not be used for commercial purposes nor shared with any third party. 
  • FYI: Because of the National Restaurant Association's Public Affairs Conference, PRLA will not be hosting our regular Wednesday webinar, "Industry Update with Melissa Bova," tomorrow. We'll be back with the updates on Wednesday, April 28 at 11 a.m. REGISTER

April 19
  • Over the weekend, the Small Business Administration released technical guidance and a sample application (see Supplemental Documents) for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. The SBA will not begin accepting applications until later this month, but the release of these documents allows restaurant operators to see the application and begin organizing documents. The National Restaurant Association is currently updating its FAQ document to reflect the specifics of this application.
  • The City of Philadelphia today provided PRLA with the Certificate of Hardship for Restaurants Facing Eviction guidance and template. This is for restaurants seeking protection under Section 9-1801 of the Philadelphia Code which provides temporary eviction relief related to the pandemic. 
  • Culinary students from the Milton Hershey School are competing to send their food into space via the NASA HUNCH competition. On April 22, the final 10 high school student-submitted recipes will be prepared and judged in the Sulivan University culinary lab for a chance to have their recipe sent to the International Space Station. Catch the action on Facebook Live at 11:30 a.m.
  • Revenue Management Solutions gauged Americans' dining behavior and attitudes through a recent survey. With so many people working from home, breakfast and lunch are the away-from-home meals most impacted by pandemic behavior changes. 
  • A rise in vehicle thefts plus the growing demand for delivery has created a dangerous situation, and delivery drivers feel they have few places to turn for help. 
  • When voters head to the polls on May 18 for the primary election, they will be voting on three potential amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 
  • Tax season was extended to May 17 and the IRS has compiled resources for taxpayers including:

April 16
  • Philadelphia expanded eligibility to all adults (over 16 for Pfizer/over 18 for Moderna). There are open appointments and walk-ups available at FEMA sites in the city. Also, the PRLA's Philadelphia Chapter has partnered with Centennial Pharmacy Services for a vaccine clinic for the city's hospitality workers. Schedule a first-dose appointment between April 18-April 30. 
  • Meanwhile, state officials are urging all Pennsylvanians 16 & older to roll up their sleeves to receive their vaccine shots. 
  • Ahead of the Derek Chauvin verdict and in preparation for protests this weekend, the City of Philadelphia is asking businesses to secure or remove outdoor seating and accessories if they could cause damage or injury. 
  • Safe Stay® is an industry-wide initiative developed by AHLA and focused on enhanced hotel cleaning practices, social interactions, and workplace protocols to meet the new health and safety challenges and expectations presented by COVID-19. AHLA recently released updated Safe Stay guidelines in English and Spanish to incorporate the latest CDC guidance. 
  • Pennsylvania acting secretary for the Department of Labor and Industry Jennifer Berrier testified before the House Labor & Industry Committee earlier this week. During her testimony, she said the department is starting conversations about reinstating the work search requirements for those individuals collecting unemployment benefits. No timeline for when the reimplementation occurs has been announced. 
  • The Associated Press is reporting that Pennsylvania's unemployment rate fell slightly in March, as payrolls expanded and every economic sector except for construction recorded growth. The leisure and hospitality sector remains down about 25% from pre-pandemic levels. 
  • A human trafficking sting in Ohio resulted in 93 arrests. More than 50 victims were found and connected with services to assist their needs. As a reminder, PRLA members and your staff are eligible for free human trafficking prevention training through our partners at BEST Alliance. LEARN MORE
  • Stauffers, a York-based bakery,  known for its Original Animal Crackers and other popular snacks is celebrating its 150 year anniversary in 2021. 
  • Residents in Krakow, Poland had been afraid to open their windows for a few days after they saw a large brown cocoon-like object hanging off a nearby tree. When animal welfare came to investigate, they found out it not an animal but a croissant. 

​April 15
  • U.S. restaurants generated $61.2 billion in sales this March, up 13.4% from February according to U.S. Census data released today. Sales are still below where they were pre-pandemic but the surge in sales was across all restaurant types and driven by two things: 1) stimulus and 2) consumers' pandemic fatigue.
  • The ServSafe Dining Commitment has streamlined its enrollment form, making it even easier for restaurants to sign on. In return, participants will receive decals, digital marketing tools, a record of commitment, and more. 
  • When voters head to the polls on May 18 for the primary election, they will be voting on three potential amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution. PRLA wants you to understand what your vote means and created this infographic to summarize the measures. Please visit Ballotpedia.org for an in-depth look at each ballot measure. 
  • Craft brewers from around the country submitted a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency asking the administration to ensure their businesses and communities maintain access to clean, safe waterways. 
  • Industry experts: Hospitality, entertainment still haven't recovered from pandemic closings in Pa. READ MORE
  • The industry's labor shortage continues to make headlines with articles recently published by the New York Times, Washington City Paper, and The Counter.  
  • Pennsylvania is expected to lose a Congressional district due to redistricting because of population shifts identified by the 2020 census.
  • PRLA is partnering with the ACF Harrisburg Chapter for a panel discussion on the vast career opportunities provided by the industry. Forward to your teams!

April 14
  • Duck Donuts, the Mechanicsburg, Pa.-based chain of donut franchises, on Tuesday said it sold a majority stake to NewSpring Capital, a private equity firm making a bigger move into the franchise space.
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. A few highlights from today's discussion included the following points:
    • The Pa. Department of Health vaccination guidance says individuals who are fully vaccinated and exposed to someone with COVID-19 do not need to quarantine after exposure if they received their second dose of a two-dose series or their first dose of a single shot vaccine 2 or more weeks ago AND they have remained asymptomatic since their current exposure.
    • The Chicago Tribune reported on updated EEOC and ADA guidance relating to mandatory vaccination of employees and employers' ability to ask workers if they have received the vaccine. 
    • PRLA will be hosting a webinar on April 22 at 10:30 a.m. with Katharine Batista, an employment and labor attorney, to address the legal issues and concerns with mandatory vaccination programs and other related topics. Register for this free webinar.
  • Rep. Tim O'Neal (R-Washington County) has proposed a bill that would allow consumers to buy distilled spirits in more places, including grocery and convenience stores. 
  • This morning, PRLA's Melissa Bova was a guest on Philadelphia's Morning Answer with Chris Stigall to discuss Philadelphia's strict guidelines despite the state relaxing restrictions for indoor dining everywhere else. 
  • Rep. David Delloso (D, part of Delaware County) has introduced a bill in the Pa. House that would legalize recreational marijuana with sales being through the state's liquor stores. 
  • The U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion, held a hearing on the state of the travel and tourism industry during the pandemic. The hearing highlighted the pandemic's ongoing impact on tourism-heavy economies and the hospitality industry. Representatives from AAHOA and U.S. Travel. A recording of the hearing is available here. 

April 13
  • Pennsylvania opened COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to all adults on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the PA Department of Health today notified all COVID-19 vaccine providers to pause administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine until at least April 20 following the recommendation out of an abundance of caution in a joint release from the CDC and the FDA. 
  • Rep. Kurt Masser (R—Northumberland) has filed legislation addressing one of PRLA’s COVID priorities—making mixed drinks to go permanent.
  • The PLCB has submitted two rule changes to the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC). One has to do with ethyl alcohol the second is to remove the $50 minimum purchase requirement to receive the 10 percent licensee discount.
  • The Bridge USA Coalition is sending a letter to President Biden regarding the J-1 Visa crisis. Interested businesses must sign on to the letter by Friday, April 16 at 5 pm.
    • Businesses and Organizations can sign on via this form
  • Pa. Treasury and Labor & Industry announced yesterday that the two agencies have recaptured nearly $800 million of unemployment benefits targeted by fraudsters.
  • Today, the White House released state-by-state fact sheets that highlight the urgent need in every state across the country for the investments proposed by President Biden in the American Jobs Plan.
  • The Lehigh Valley Chapter is hosting a golf outing on Monday, July 12 at the Steel Club to support the PRLAEF’s Scholarship Program and HARP Fund. The Red Robin Food Truck will be on site for lunch, plus on-course snacks and beverages including beer and spirit tastings. MORE INFO & REGISTRATION
  • Hilton Named #1 Best Big Company to Work For, #3 Best Company to Work For in the U.S. READ
  • This spring, join Toast for a four-part virtual event series, each focusing on a different aspect of running a restaurant as we come out of COVID-19. The series kicks off April 26 with a spotlight on staffing, followed up by sessions in May and June on financing, on-premise dining, and digital hospitality. MORE INFO
  • Restaurant Business editor Peter Romeo penned an op-ed on why restaurants should care about Amazon’s union vote. Read why he thinks that the unsuccessful attempt to organize the Bessemer warehouse in Alabama could mean bad news is brewing for the foodservice business.
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conference is just one week away. View the conference agenda and register HERE.
    • PRLA members: use code PAFCMEMBER to receive a member discount on your registration.

April 12
  • The National Restaurant Association has had ongoing conversations with the SBA on the timing of the RRF grant program. The SBA provided a draft application, which informed the Association's Restaurant Revitalization Fund FAQ. The official application, website, and program guide could be released within the next two weeks. The Association's biggest takeaway from these conversations is that most operators should not feel the need to hire outside consultants to prepare their RRFG applications. 
  • Pennsylvania officials today announced that all state residents 16 and older will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccines beginning Tuesday, April 13.
    • The Philadelphia Chapter is partnering with Centennial Pharmacy Services for a vaccination clinic at the Centennial Pharmacy, 1020 N. Delaware Ave. First dose appointments are offered April 7-30 and second dose appointments take place May 5-21. When scheduling your appointment, select PRLA from the drop-down menu for their group. You must pre-register to receive the vaccine; no walk-ins permitted.
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory released its latest U.S. Hotel Outlook presentation. CBRE noted that the U.S. added over 900,000 jobs in March, with the leisure & hospitality sector seeing the biggest gain at 280,000. Demand for travel and hospitality are predicted to continue a strong rebound as commercial banks are showing steep and significant increases in savings for 2020. 
  • The PA Chamber is surveying business operators on the impact of childcare on their business and workforce. Please take a few minutes to add your input. TAKE SURVEY
  • The SBA Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application is currently closed after the system crashed nearly immediately after opening last week. The SBA is updating its resource page at sba.gov/svogrant.
  • ICYMI: The latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey closes on April 14. The information collected is crucial to our ongoing advocacy efforts with elected officials and media relations efforts. TAKE SURVEY

April 9
  • The National Restaurant Association today released a new Restaurant Revitalization Fund FAQ with updated information about applications, eligibility, and figuring out grant amounts. 
  • The IRS and Treasury Department yesterday issued guidance allowing a 100% business deduction for food or beverages purchased from restaurants, from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022. For clarity, the term "restaurant" means a business that prepares and sells food or beverages to retail customers for immediate consumption, regardless of whether the food or beverages are consumed on the business' premises.
  • Yesterday, Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb introduced a package of bills focused on reforming the city's tax structure to create an attractive environment for businesses, workers, and families. PRESS RELEASE | FACT SHEET
  • The New York Times reports on the restaurant industry's newest crisis, a staffing shortage from coast to coast. 
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill is now offering to pay college tuition for employees pursuing specific degrees and have worked for the company for at least four months. 
  • On Monday, April 12, Pennsylvania moves to phase 1C, which includes restaurant and hotel workers. Philadelphia hospitality workers are already eligible for vaccine appointments. 
    • The Philadelphia Chapter is partnering with Centennial Pharmacy Services for a vaccination clinic at the Centennial Pharmacy, 1020 N. Delaware Ave. First dose appointments are offered April 7-30 and second dose appointments take place May 5-21. When scheduling your appointment, select PRLA from the drop-down menu for their group. You must pre-register to receive the vaccine; no walk-ins permitted.
  • The Biden Administration today revealed its first 2022 budget request, outlining a set of priorities including funding for medical research, education, housing, civil rights, combatting gun violence, tackling climate change, and more. 

​April 8
  • Texas and Florida just banned mandatory vaccine passports, with multiple states initiating legislation to do the same. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia Councilmember Isaiah Thomas is calling on the Pa. Legislature to provide regulatory relief to local bars, restaurants, and other liquor licensees through extended bar hours and increased happy hours durations. The Philadelphia Business Journal (subscription required) is reporting that Rep. Jordan Harris is planning to introduce a bill pushing to extend nightlife hours to 4 a.m. 
  • The CDC issued a new scientific brief stating the risk of contracting COVID-19 from a contaminated surface is considered low. The paper concludes that most people get COVID-19 by breathing contaminated air versus touching a contaminated surface. 
  • McDonald's will seek damages from Tyson over price-fixing to recover potentially excessive charges from the chicken producer dating between January 2008 and early 2019. The company is looking at similar situations over pork and beef producers and could seek damages in those situations, too. 
  • The Pa. Department of Labor & Industry today announced that the state will be transitioning to a new unemployment claims system in June. 
  • Data from Johns Hopkins University indicate that just five states (New York, Michigan, Florida, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey) have accounted for about 43% of new coronavirus cases over the last week.

April 7
  • PRLA and several restaurant operators, caterers, and representatives from the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association testified before the Philadelphia City Council on the impact of the city's mitigation standards on the hospitality industry. Check the Council's YouTube channel for the video recording later this week. 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with John Longstreet, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • This afternoon, Congress' Problem Solvers Caucus announced that Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) was elected the new co-chair of the 58-member bipartisan group. 
  • Yesterday, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, with a $1.75 million donation from Constellation Brands, launched "Restaurants Advance," a national campaign to help current and future restaurant workers access the education and training they need to put their job or career on track. 
  • Northampton Community College Center for College and Career Readiness announced free English as a Second Language and GED test preparation classes. MORE INFO
  • Restaurant Business is reporting that California will lift nearly all restaurant restrictions on June 15; however, a statewide mask mandate will remain in effect. 
  • PRLA President & CEO John Longstreet was a guest on the latest All In Foodz podcast to discuss how the industry was impacted by the pandemic and the path forward. Allinfoodz is produced by the Penn State Food Decisions Research Laboratory. 
  • The NRAEF  has partnered with Optum Health to create tools to support the mental health needs of hospitality workers and employers. Please consider taking this survey to help shape the strategies, tools, and resources developed to address and support the mental health needs of our industry's workforce. 
  • ICYMI: Last week, the CDC released new travel guidelines for fully vaccinated Americans to travel domestically and internationally. READ MORE 

April 6
  • The PLCB issued updated guidance for licensees in response to the April 4 loosening of restrictions on the restaurant industry. 
  • The National Restaurant Association has launched another economic impact survey and your feedback is critical. Your completion of this survey provides important information that allows the PRLA to receive state-specific data that helps us to share the industry's voice with elected officials and advocate on your behalf. Please be assured that all information provided is anonymous and strictly confidential. The survey should take no more than 10 minutes to complete. Please submit a completed survey by April 14. TAKE SURVEY
  • Philadelphia announced that it is aligning to the state's vaccination schedule and opening up vaccines to everyone on April 19. 
  • The Philadelphia Chapter is partnering with Centennial Pharmacy Services for a vaccination clinic at the Centennial Pharmacy, 1020 N. Delaware Ave. First dose appointments are offered April 7-30 and second dose appointments take place May 5-21. When scheduling your appointment, select PRLA from the drop-down menu for their group. You must pre-register to receive the vaccine; no walk-ins permitted.
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of Government Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, released his weekly 90-second update to announce speakers at this year's Public Affairs Conference, including the co-sponsors of the unified RESTAURANTS Act, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ). MORE INFO
  • The PA Chamber is reporting that the Pa. House passed by a vote of 107-94 a COVID-19 liability reform bill that will protect businesses taking the proper safety precautions during the pandemic from frivolous lawsuits. PRLA was part of a coalition advocating for this legislation. 

April 5
  • Yesterday, Pennsylvania lifted targeted restrictions on restaurants and other businesses. Governor Wolf released an amended order to reflect these changes, which took effect at 12:01 a.m. on April 4, 2021. NOTE: Philadelphia's citywide mitigation measures are still in place.
  • Pennsylvania's vaccine rollout moved into phase 1B today. Restaurant and hotel industry employees fall into Phase 1C, which will begin April 12. One week later, all Pennsylvania residents over the age of 18 will be eligible to start scheduling appointments on April 19. Meanwhile in Philadelphia, hospitality workers are already eligible for vaccination.
  • The House unanimously passed the following PRLA priorities today:
    • HB 427 (Pyle—R, parts of Armstrong, Butler, and Indiana counties) increases the licensee discount to 15% for 3 years upon the conclusion of the disaster declaration and excludes grocery and convenience stores from the discount.
    • HB 425 (Dowling—R, parts of Somerset and Fayette counties) allows a licensee who goes out of business to sell wine and spirits to another licensee.
  • On Friday, the National Restaurant Association issued a statement in response to an article published the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), “Mask Mandates, On-Premises Dining, and COVID-19”.
  • The Greater Pittsburgh Hotel Association is accepting applications for its Hotel/Travel & Tourism scholarship now through April 29, 2021. Three $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to students studying the Hospitality and Tourism Industry. Questions? Email Joyce Kraemer at gpha@pittsburgh-hotels.org.
  • Register for the National Restaurant Association's virtual Public Affairs Conference on April 20, featuring guest speakers the Honorable Rahm Emanuel, former White House press secretary Dana Perino, and more. PRLA members should use the code PAFCMEMBER to receive a member discount on their registration. | REGISTER

April 2
  • Reminder: Statewide COVID-19 restrictions will be loosened starting this Sunday, April 4 at 12:01 a.m. NOTE: Philadelphia's citywide mitigation measures are still in place.
  • While Philadelphia will not be aligning with the state on April 4, city officials did release the updated guidelines for business meetings this week. The city also extended its deadline for CHIRP grant applications. You now have until April 12 to apply in Philadelphia. Visit prla.org/chirp for information on the other 66 counties. Please note that Allegheny County has exhausted its CHIRP grant funds.
  • The CDC announced today that fully vaccinated Americans can resume domestic and overseas travel as long as they wear masks in public.
  • Earlier this week, the state announced it is accelerating the timetable for vaccinations. Restaurant and hotel industry employees outside of Philadelphia fall into Phase 1C, which will be eligible to schedule appointments on April 12. One week later, all Pennsylvania residents over the age of 18 will be eligible to start scheduling appointments on April 19.
  • Philadelphia's Office of Worker Protections will begin enforcement of predictability pay starting June 1, 2021. Covered service retail and hospitality employers are required to post employee schedules 14 days in advance of the workweek. When changes to this posted schedule come from an employer’s request, covered employees must receive compensation. | READ MORE
  • Join the National Restaurant Association virtually for the 35th annual Public Affairs Conference on April 20. You’ll hear from political analysts, industry leaders, and lawmakers on key issues impacting the restaurant industry. PRLA members should use the code PAFCMEMBER to receive a member discount on their registration. | REGISTER
  • Restaurant sales take off; however, many operators are reporting staffing as a critical challenge. PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today! Contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org, if you need help getting started with your listing.





















​April 1
  • The Wolf Administration today released the updated guidance for businesses in the restaurant industry. Items of note include:
    • Barriers can be used anywhere indoors in lieu of 6' social distancing (but this does not mean you may exceed the occupancy restrictions)
    • Bar blocks are permitted for bar seating. If bar blocks/barriers are not used, parties at the bar must be 6' apart.
    • There is no occupancy calculator for outdoor dining as long as tables are 6' apart.
  • PRLA received clarification on the following items within the guidance:
    • Bar service: a customer may walk up to the bar to purchase a drink but must return to their seat to consume it. 
    • Group size for seating at the bar does not have a maximum number. The Administration recommends (but does not require) parties of 10 or fewer individuals. 
    • Partitions at the bar are between parties, not individuals within a party.
    • Outdoor events: The Administration updated the outdoor occupancy guidance for private events to reflect 50% of the 67 people per 1,000 square feet calculation. 
    • If you require additional clarification, please submit your question here. 
  • Allegheny County Council this week failed to override County Executive Fitzgerald's veto of the paid sick leave bill. Fitzgerald and County Health Director Bogen have already said the health board will take up the legislation at its next meeting. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey from the National Restaurant Association. Your responses are critical for our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • PRLA partner FocusHRO summarizes the key components of the American Rescue Plan Act for employers. 
  • Squarespace has acquired Nick Kokonas' reservations platform Tock for more than $400 million. 
  • The Washington Post is reporting that states have given out billions in unemployment benefit overpayments during the pandemic. 
  • Links to each county's CHIRP grant information can be found at www.prla.org/chirp
  • ICYMI: PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today! Contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org, if you need help getting started with your listing.

March 31
  • The Pa. Department of Health and COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force today announced a timetable for those Phases 1B, 1C, and 2. All Pennsylvanians will be eligible to schedule vaccination appointments beginning April 19. 
  • State officials have not yet released the updated guidelines or corresponding FAQ documents relating to the loosening of some restrictions that take effect on April 4. 
  • Meanwhile, Philadelphia officials today released its updated guidance concerning serving meals at business meetings and the increase to 250 people for outdoor events. 
  • Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney late today signed the Public Health Emergency Leave bill into law. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey from the National Restaurant Association. Your responses are critical for our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • Today, President Biden will release his America Jobs Plan (summary) aimed at building our nation's infrastructure. The National Restaurant Association is following several provisions in the plan closely, particularly the current tax and labor provisions. 
  • The Small Business Administration announced that they will NOT REQUIRE restaurants to have a SAM or DUNS number in applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. 
  • The Economic Development Administration will provide $3 billion in grants to eligible entities to help communities impacted by job loss in the travel, tourism, or outdoor recreation sectors. LEARN MORE
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • In the wake of former state Rep. Jeff Pyle's retirement, House Speaker Cutler appointed Rep. Carl Metzgar (R-Somerset) to serve as Chairman of the House Liquor Control Committee. PRLA congratulates Rep. Metzgar on his appointment and looks forward to working with him on a number of our liquor bill priorities this session. 
  • Tomorrow is the application deadline for the PRLA Educational Foundation's Scholarship Program. Please share the program info with a high school senior or current undergrad seeking to pursue their post-secondary degree in the culinary arts or hospitality management fields. 
  • If you are not already enrolled in a manufacturer rebate program, join the PRLA's program to receive rebates on the products you are already purchasing. LEARN MORE
  • Yesterday, the City of Philadelphia announced that it would be extending the application deadline for CHIRP grants until 11:59 p.m. on April 12. Links to the other 66 counties' CHIRP grants can be found at www.prla.org/chirp
  • ICYMI: PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today! Contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org, if you need help getting started with your listing.

March 30
  • The Small Business Administration today announced that they will NOT REQUIRE restaurants to have a SAM or DUNS number in applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey from the National Restaurant Association. Your responses are critical for our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • The City of Philadelphia extended its application deadline to 11:59 p.m. on April 12 for CHIRP grants. 
  • PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today! Contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org, if you need help getting started with your listing.
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of public affairs for the National Restaurant Association, breaks down everything happening in D.C. and how it impacts the industry in about 90 seconds. 
  • The COVID Rescue Fund is offering grants to small business operators who lost their business due to COVID-19 so they can launch a new business. Learn More
  • PRLA's partner in health and wellness, UnitedHealth Group, has updated the resources available to you and your teams including new, lower pricing for its at-home COVID test kits. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

March 29
  • Lancaster County has joined the Hope for Hospitality, an initiative launched earlier this year by counties in southeastern Pennsylvania to encourage residents to support local restaurants through dine-in, take-out, and delivery. Participants are entered into a drawing for an AmEx gift card. MORE INFO
  • PRLA members can post open positions for free on the PRLA Job Board. And, for a limited time, non-members can receive a complimentary 30-day posting by using the code COVID-19. Forward this info to your hiring manager today! Contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org, if you need help getting started with your listing.
  • Applications for the PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship Program are due by April 1, 2021. The PRLAEF will be awarding 12 $2,000 scholarships to students who are currently pursuing or intend to pursue post-secondary education in culinary arts or hospitality management. Share the details and application information to a high school senior or college undergrad today so they can apply by the deadline!
  • Sens. Dan Laughlin (R, Erie County) and Pat Browne (R, Lehigh County) are proposing to introduce legislation that seeks to raise the minimum wage to $10/hour and permanently index it to inflation. They also propose setting the tipped wage rate at 40% of the minimum wage. 
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory today released its latest U.S. hotel outlook, noting a couple of positive observations:
    • High-frequency data points are showing increases in movement, number of travelers, and bookings—metrics that bode well for the hotel market.
    • Occupancy and ADR are trending higher while hotel closures are trending downwards. 
  • The Cornell Institute for Food and Beverage Management is sponsoring an online 2-hour train-the-training program for employers who serve or employ underserved community members seeking opportunities in the hospitality industry. Complete this brief survey to identify the dates and times that would work best for your schedule to attend.  
  • The Pennsylvania Conference for Women today celebrated #MomAndPopBusinessOwnersDay by highlighting the women-owned restaurants that received grants through the conference. 
  • Open In PHL has been keeping tabs on the restaurants certified to operate at the 50% capacity. Since March 9, only 11 more independent restaurants in Philadelphia have successfully met the enhanced ventilation requirements necessary to operate at 50% capacity, bringing the total number of certified restaurants in the city to 128. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp​ ​

​March 26
  • The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Thursday upheld a lower-court ruling that the PLCB has been violating a 2016 law by prohibiting wine dealers from shipping wines directly to retailers and restaurants that sell wine for take-out. The 2016 law required the PLCB to establish a system for direct-shipment of wine to retailers and restaurants; however, the PLCB continued requiring retailers and restaurants to pick up their orders at state stores. 
  • While the Restaurant Revitalization Fund is projected to open sometime in April, there are 3 steps you can take to prepare today.
    1. First, create a login.gov account, which helps you interact with the SBA and other federal agencies
    2. Sign up to receive a DUNS number, usually takes 1-2 days.
    3. Using your login.gov email, DUNS number, and standard business info (Taxpayer ID # and Taxpayer Name), register with the System of Award Management (SAM). It can take up to 2 weeks to be fully set up on SAM.
  • Earlier this week, Congress introduced a new per diem bill. AHLA applauded this bill's introduction because it will ensure future per diem rates established by the government reflect the current crisis faced by the hotel industry. 
  • Gov. Tom Wolf has nominated Veronica Degraffenreid, the former North Carolina director of elections operations, to serve as his next secretary of the Department of State. Degraffenreid has been serving as the acting secretary since the abrupt departure of Kathy Boockvar on Feb. 5.
  • The AP is reporting that Pennsylvania's unemployment rate was stable in February at 7.3%, which is a whole point above the national rate of 6.2%
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp​​

March 25
  • The U.S. Senate today passed H.R. 1799, which will extend the PPP application deadline (currently March 31, 2021) two months, to May 31, 2021, and provide an additional 30 days, after May 31, for the SBA to process pending applications. 
  • In a U.S. Senate Small Business Committee hearing, the SBA said it expects a "phased launch" of the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Grant program to begin in April. This is the first timeline provided by the SBA, which expects to receive hundreds of thousands of grants. 
  • ICYMI: Yesterday, the SBA announced that it is increasing the maximum amount small businesses and non-profit organizations can borrow through its COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Starting the week of April 6, the SBA is raising the loan limit from 6-months/$150,000 max loan to 24-months/$500,000 max loan. 
  • Tourism groups are pushing the U.S. to eliminate travel restrictions, including exempting vaccinated individuals from testing requirements before entering the country and for the CDC to say vaccinated people can travel safely. 
    The Wolf Administration is refusing to disclose details of wasted coronavirus vaccine doses citing a decades-old law that it has frequently used to shield the public from scrutinizing its pandemic response.
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

March 24
  • Today marks the one-year anniversary of the launch of The Great American Takeout. The GAT will celebrate perseverance and raise over $500,000 for CORE and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. Restaurant operators can download social media graphics to post on their channels to let the public know that they are participating in this event. If your restaurant isn't listed on CarryoutPA.com, you can add it for free. 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with special guest Mike Whatley, VP of State & Local Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, you can watch it on-demand here. Mike addressed policy issues the new Administration is likely to tackle, as well as policy priorities of Congress and trends the Association is monitoring at the state and local levels. Bookmark restaurantsact.com/rrf/ for the latest information on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which will be posted here as it becomes available. 
  • Also, if you have not yet registered for the National Restaurant Association's Public Affairs Conference, there is still time to do so for this virtual event on April 20. PRLA members should use the code PAFCMEMBER to receive a member discount on their registration. 
  • The U.S. Small Business Administration today announced that it is increasing the maximum amount small businesses and non-profit organizations can borrow through its COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Starting the week of April 6, the SBA is raising the loan limit from 6-months/$150,000 max loan to 24-months/$500,000 max loan. 
  • Last night, Politico reported that Senate Democratic moderates are pushing for a compromise on minimum wage, including a more moderate increase to $11/hour and opposing to completely eliminate the tipped wage. 
  • Yesterday, President of the National Restaurant Association Tom Bené talked about the stimulus plan, permanent changes to the industry, and more to the crew at GMA. 
  • Sen. Pat Toomey today announced that he would vote against confirming Rachel Levine for a Biden Administration post, citing the high number of deaths in Pa. nursing homes from the coronavirus. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

March 23
  • Philadelphia officials on Tuesday announced that the city will not relax COVID-19 capacity restrictions on indoor dining or indoor/outdoor events on April 4. Officials did outline a potential path to increase occupancy allowances but not until April 30 at the earliest. 
  • PRLA and our partner, the National Restaurant Association, reflected on the big and small wins for Pennsylvania restaurants this past year. INFOGRAPHIC
  • PRLA sent a letter to the Philadelphia City Council Committee on Streets & Services in support of a bill, sponsored by Councilperson Gilmore-Richardson, that would allow outdoor entertainment at restaurants that obtain a permit for a sidewalk cafe, streetery, or street/lot closure. 
  • On the one-year anniversary of its launch, The Great American Takeout will celebrate perseverance and raise over $500,000 for CORE and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. Restaurant operators can download social media graphics to post on their channels to let the public know that they are participating in this event. If your restaurant isn't listed on CarryoutPA.com, you can add it for free. 
  • Many operators believe widespread vaccination of the population will play a critical role in the recovery of the industry, and they are rewarding customers who get the vaccine. Krispy Kreme is offering free donuts all year to customers who get a COVID-19 vaccine.
  • The National Restaurant Association looks back at consumers' restaurant usage during the past year. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

March 22
  • Restaurant Business looks at the data from the past year, as the quarantine led to broad shutdowns of indoor dining, show that while the industry is recovering, it has a long way to go. RB also looks at the shifts restaurant menus underwent during the pandemic and explores how much of those changes will be permanent. 
  • Meanwhile, CBS News is reporting that according to data from Yelp and the Census Bureau, thousands of new restaurants are opening. Yelp data show that in the last three months of 2020, the platform added more than 18,000 new food businesses. Census Bureau figures show that Americans filed applications for 50,000 new food businesses in the first two months of 2021.
  • Black Box Intelligence data shows that for the second consecutive week, restaurants experienced an encouraging improvement in year-over-year comp sales and traffic growth. 
  • The AP is reporting that airlines and others in the travel industry are throwing their support behind so-called vaccine passports to boost pandemic-depressed travel, and authorities in Europe could embrace the idea quickly enough for peak summer vacation season.  
  • The next batch of stimulus payments ramps up paper checks and debit cards for those whose bank information is not on file with the government. 
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of Public Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, posted a 90-second update on everything happening in Washington D.C., how it impacts the industry, and how you can stay engaged. 
  • A scammer claiming to be the CEO called a Pa. McDonald's last week and directed the manager to buy gift cards from the nearby Sheetz and Rutter's stores, then read the PIN on the back of the cards to the person. Police are reminding people to be aware of this scam and avoid providing someone with a gift card PIN over the phone. 
  • PRLA extends its condolences to the family of Kent Taylor, founder and CEO of the Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain, on his unexpected death last week. The company immediately named Jerry Morgan, president of the company, as Taylor's successor at CEO. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

March 19
  • Destination Gettysburg announced this week that Karl Pietrzak has been selected as the new President and CEO of the organization. Pietrzak will immediately begin working through the transition with former president and CEO Norris Flowers, who is retiring after 15 years with the organization. We look forward to working with Karl and wish Norris the best.
  • While we await additional guidance from the SBA on the new federal Restaurant Revitalization Fund, Concannon Miller (a Bethlehem, PA based CPA and business advisory firm) answered some FAQs.
  • Toast breaks down the current status of restaurant relief, including national and regional relief options accessible to restaurant workers and businesses in their "Guide to Restaurant Relief in America". 
  • Restaurant Business takes a look at how table-service operators are venturing far afield from their traditional turf after the pandemic darkened dining rooms. READ MORE
  • Reminder: Applications for the PRLAEF Scholarship Program are due by April 1, 2021. Twelve $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to Pennsylvania students pursuing post-secondary education in culinary arts or hospitality. Details and application can be found at www.prla.org/scholarships.
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses are now open in all PA counties. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp

​March 18
  • Please note that while the Wolf Administration has announced the loosening of some mitigation orders will take effect on April 4, the Administration has not updated any of the guidelines or FAQ documents. We do not anticipate those updates to occur until closer to the effective date and will share the information as soon as it is released.
  • The Pa. Department of Revenue today announced the deadline for taxpayers to file their 2020 Pennsylvania personal income tax returns and make final 2020 income tax payments is extended to May 17, 2021. This comes on the heels of a similar announcement by the IRS on the federal personal income tax returns. 
  • Today, Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed legislation to expand and extend the Public Health Emergency Leave. The bill heads to Mayor Kenney's desk for his signature. It is not merely an extension of the previous leave, but also an additional 80 hours of leave and includes the following provisions:
    • Any business with more than 50 employees in the City must provide up to 80 hours of paid leave for the following uses:
      • Recovery from COVID-19
      • Quarantine because of COVID-19
      • To care for a family member or child that has or needs to be quarantined because of COVID-19
      • To obtain a vaccine and recover from any side-effects from receiving it
    • A business with more than 50 but less than 500 employees may use federal tax credits for this leave
    • Providing this leave is not optional. All businesses must provide up to 80 additional hours of leave either through the tax credit or out-of-pocket. 
    • If an employer already offers employees 160 hours of paid leave per year, they do not need to provide additional leave
    • This legislation will be in effect until the conclusion of the disaster declaration. 
  • The Small Business Administration (SBA) this week announced extended deferment periods for all disaster loans, including the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, until 2022. 
  • Congress is expected to extend PPP lending by two months under a bill that Senate Majority Leader Schumer has vowed to move quickly. Without the extension, the PPP will officially expire on March 31. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation today announced a $750,000 grant from ECOLAB to support the ProStart program. That grant will be divided equally to states that have ProStart programs, like Pennsylvania, to help participating schools alleviate some of the challenges teaching in a pandemic brings.
  • PennDOT this week issued a courtesy reminder that expiration dates for commercial driver licenses and commercial learner's permits will end after the current extension expires on March 31.   
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses opened in all PA counties today. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp.

March 17
  • Cheers to St. Patrick's Day!☘️ PRLA and HARP are encouraging the public to "Give Green" while celebrating today's festivities. Feel free to share PRLA's Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram message to your customers to help raise money in support of PA hospitality workers experiencing hardship due to COVID-19. 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. One item garnering significant discussion was the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. We encourage you to watch the National Restaurant Association's March 15 webinar for information on the program and the steps you can do now to prepare for the fund opening, including securing your DUNS Number and SAM Registration. The SBA also provided a tutorial on how to register for the SAM (focuses on the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant but can be applicable to restaurants). 
  • Bloomberg is reporting that the IRS is planning to delay the April 15 tax filing deadline to May 17, giving taxpayers an additional month to meet their obligations in what is becoming one of the most complicated tax seasons in decades. The details have not been finalized so no official announcement has been made by the IRS just yet. 
  • Pa. lawmakers and officials could see their pay frozen for a second straight year under legislation that won House State Government Committee approval. 
  • PRLA partner Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking (BEST Alliance) recently published an article in Hotel Management on the role of contactless technology in preventing human trafficking. PRLA members are eligible for free human trafficking prevention training from BEST Alliance. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses opened in all PA counties today. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp.
  • Today marks one year since the Daily Update began, with the sole goal of providing you with timely and accurate information so you could make the best decisions for your business. It's been a long and difficult road, and we're not done yet, but we wanted to take a moment to say thank you for reading.  

March 16
  • Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald today vetoed legislation that would have mandated paid sick leave in Allegheny County citing concerns with the legality of how the bill moved through the process. Last week, the city solicitor sent a letter to the council warning that the process to pass the bill would likely lose a legal challenge. The Pittsburgh Business Times ran an article yesterday about why the bill could face a surprising legal challenge. READ MORE (paywall)
  • House Liquor Control Committee Chairman Jeff Pyle today announced his retirement from the House of Representatives, effective immediately. Chairman Pyle has been a tireless advocate and champion of our industry. In his final act before retirement, Chairman Pyle moved the following bills from Committee:
    • HB 427 (Pyle—R, parts of Armstrong, Butler, and Indiana counties) increases the licensee discount to 15% for 3 years upon the conclusion of the disaster declaration and excludes grocery and convenience stores from the discount.
    • HB 452 (Deasy—D, part of Allegheny County) allows a licensed premise to be extended to a non-contiguous property up to 1,000 feet beyond the licensed premise. It also will:
      • Eliminate the $500 fee for an off-premise catering permit, remove the March 1 deadline to apply for the permit, eliminate the 5-hour minimum for events, and lifts the 52 event cap. This would become effective for one year after the end of the disaster declaration.
      • Eliminate the fee for safekeeping for one additional year after the conclusion of the disaster emergency.
    • HB 425 (Dowling—R, parts of Somerset and Fayette counties) allows a licensee who goes out of business to sell wine and spirits to another licensee.
  • In today's press conference, Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Farley expressed concerns over Gov. Wolf's move to expand indoor dining capacity and loosen other restrictions. READ MORE
  • #OpenInPHL is tracking the Philadelphia restaurants that have met the enhanced ventilation requirements. To date, fewer than 100 restaurants have been certified. 
  • Restaurant Business explores how the pandemic forced restaurants online to survive. READ MORE
  • The Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association, in partnership with PRLA, is proud to present a virtual Women in Hospitality event on Thursday, March 18 at 4 p.m. featuring Nancy Medoff and Pamela Varkony as they discuss how women can improve their communication skills. REGISTER
  • The Pa. Capitol Building is scheduled to reopen to the public on March 22 with enhanced security protocols. 
  • A rough vaccine rollout has even Democrats turning on Wolf. READ MORE
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses opened in all PA counties today. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp.

March 15
  • The Wolf Administration today announced the lifting of some targeted restrictions on restaurants and other businesses, as well as increased gathering limits. The changes take effect on April 4 and include:
    • Bar service may resume
    • The meal requirement for alcohol purchases will be eliminated
    • The 11 p.m. curfew for alcohol sales will be lifted
    • Indoor dining capacity raised to 75% for restaurants that have self-certified and 50% for those that have not
    • Indoor events maximum occupancy will be 25%
    • Outdoor event maximum occupancy will be 50%
  • Read PRLA's statement on today's announcement. 
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses opened in all PA counties today. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at www.prla.org/chirp.
  • A group of Senate Republican lawmakers today announced a package of bills designed to support small businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 mitigation orders. PRLA President & CEO John Longstreet represented the industry at this morning's news conference at Lititz Springs Inn & Spa and Bulls Head Public House. 
  • The City of Pittsburgh's Paid Sick Days Act takes effect and becomes enforceable today. 
  • The National Restaurant Association today launched a new website for the latest information available for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
  • The House Tourism & Recreational Development Committee today held a hearing on the impact of COVID on the tourism community. PRLA members Daryl Morris from Kalahari Resorts, Lisa Rager from Visit Johnstown, and Carl Crider from DelGrosso's Amusement Park testified on behalf of the industry. 
  • Tomorrow, the House Liquor Control Committee is expected to move legislation that addresses five of PRLA's alcohol/licensee-related priorities, including:
    • Increase the licensee discount to 15% for three years
    • Eliminate the fee for an off-premise catering permit, the cap on off-premise events, and the 5-hour event length cap
    • Allow licensees to extend their premise to a non-contiguous property if it is within 1,000 feet of the licensed property
    • Eliminate the safekeeping fee for one year after the emergency declaration ends
    • Allow a licensee who is going out of business to sell wine and spirits to another licensee

March 12
  • Gov. Wolf and the COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force today announced targeted vaccination strategies, including requiring vaccine providers to make best efforts to schedule all 1A appointments by the end of March. READ MORE
  • COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) applications for businesses will be open in all PA counties by Monday, March 15. We've rounded up the links for each county's CHIRP information at: www.prla.org/chirp
  • The Small Business Administration will likely open up the Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant applications “within weeks, not months,” of President Biden signing the stimulus package into law, Rep. Earl Blumenauer said in a press conference Wednesday morning. READ MORE
  • PRLA's Philadelphia Chapter will hold a virtual Advocacy Awareness Town Hall on Tuesday, March 16 at 3 p.m. All Philly industry members and partners are invited for a discussion on increasing engagement in local and city initiatives. Panelists include Bill Covaleski (Victory Brewing Company), Sashia Gabrieli Liriano (Fri/Sat/Sun), and Gregory Headen (The Black Plate, Everybody Eats Philly), with moderator Michelle Linahan (On Point Bistro). RSVP
  • CBRE today released its U.S. Hotels Outlook Report. Key highlights include occupancy and ADR trending higher, hotel closures remaining static, with the exception of the luxury chain scale which exhibited a slight uptick.
  • The Hope for Hospitality PA campaign will be extended through April 30, with the addition of Lancaster county. Customers who purchase $25 or more at any restaurant in in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, or Montgomery county can enter for a chance to win a $25 AmEx gift card. LEARN MORE
  • ICYMI:  Philadelphia restaurants and their employees can receive access to timely COVID-19 testing with all costs reimbursed. Learn more about this program, in partnership with Jefferson Health and made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation, at www.prla.org/phillytesting. 

​March 11
  • This afternoon, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law creating the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), which is a huge win for our restaurant community. The National Restaurant Association, and its state partners like PRLA, have worked tirelessly to make this relief program a reality. On Monday, March 15 at 1 p.m., the NRA will host a webinar addressing the RRF and next steps. REGISTER
  • The Wolf Administration clarified that operators should use 25 people per 1,000 square feet when determining outdoor occupancy (when a fire code occupancy is unavailable).
  • PennLive is reporting that scaled-down versions of St. Patrick's Day celebrations are likely a go at Pa. restaurants and bars. 
  • The massive relief bill coupled with increased vaccine supply, warmer weather, and states loosening some mitigation is bringing a glimmer of optimism to restaurants. READ MORE
  • In honor of the one-year anniversary of the pandemic in the U.S., Restaurant Business re-ran the article, "10 days that changed the restaurant industry." It's worth a read to remember how different that time was and reflect on where we are today.  
  • Enterprise Holdings, the world's largest car-rental operator, gave each of its 80,000 employees $100 to spend at local restaurants. READ MORE
  • If you missed today's webinar highlighting the various certification and training programs offered by ServSafe, you can watch it on-demand here.
  • The Morning Call is reporting that Pennsylvania will allow utilities to resume normal service shutoffs for nonpaying customers after March 31, ending a coronavirus moratorium. 
  • National Geographic takes a look at how we'll live with COVID-19 once the pandemic phase ends. It's a long trail from pandemic to common cold. READ MORE

March 10
  • The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the American Rescue Plan, the $1.9 trillion stimulus package, and it now heads to President Biden's desk for signature. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund is a part of the package and the National Restaurant Association will be holding a webinar on March 15 to review the next steps. REGISTER
  • Restaurant Business editors today released their Power 20: Pandemic Heroes list, which recognizes restaurant industry folks who stepped up in a big way throughout the pandemic. 
  • A coalition of event industry professionals is advocating for the safe reopening of the wedding and private events industry in Pennsylvania. READ MORE
  • Governors Murphy (NJ) and Cuomo (NY) today announced the expansion of indoor dining capacity to 50% beginning March 19 for the state of New Jersey and New York City. This comes on the heels of Gov. Cuomo's announcement last week expanding indoor dining to 75% in New York state (except for New York City). 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update webinar with special guest Dr. Jignesh Sheth who discussed the vaccine's creation and safety, you can watch it on-demand here. Dr. Sheth also provided the following vaccine FAQs.
  • Philadelphia City Council yesterday heard testimony on Bill #210081, sponsored by Councilperson Squilla, which would regulate short-term rentals within the city limits and create a registry to ensure zoning and tax compliance for those choosing to list a property with a short-term rental site. The bill was held in committee so additional amendments could be considered at a meeting next month.
  • Allegheny County Council passed legislation by a vote of 10-4-1 that would mandate paid sick leave for employers with more than 25 employees. The legislation passed despite the City Solicitor submitted a letter to the council warning that the process to pass the bill would likely lose a legal challenge. It is unclear what the next step will be.

March 9
  • New York restaurants outside of New York City can start operating at 75% starting March 19. The date is the same day that Connecticut is opening up its restaurants to 100%. 
  • The PRLA will be testifying before the House Labor & Industry Committee tomorrow (March 10) at 10 a.m. about the issues the industry has experienced with the state's unemployment compensation system. The hearing will be live-streamed.
  • Restaurant Business takes a look at how restaurants have adjusted—and continue to adjust—to the new normal. 
  • According to the latest Longwoods International tracking study of American travelers, 84% have travel plans in the next six months, the highest level since the early days of the pandemic last March. LI CEO Amir Eylon said "barring another surge in infections, the beginning of the travel industry recovery appears on target during 2021." READ MORE
  • The City of Philadelphia and PIDC today announced the details of how CHIRP will operate in Philadelphia. The online application will open at 11 a.m. on March 15 and close at 11:59 p.m. on April 5. Program details and the application will be available at PIDCphila.com/CHIRP.
  • Allegheny County launched AlleghenyCounty.us/CHIRP for updates on the CHIRP grant. 
  • The National Restaurant Association will be holding an information webinar on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) on March 15 at 1 p.m. to discuss the program and provide recommended next steps for restaurants interested in applying. REGISTER
  • Restaurant365 is holding a webinar on March 18 at 2 p.m. ET to walk restaurants through updates on the Employee Retention Tax Credits. REGISTER
  • Disney's chief executive says that Disneyland will reopen in late April, making it the last of the company's theme park resorts to come back online. READ MORE
  • On Friday, the PLCB issued updated guidance for licensees in all counties, reflecting the changes to the discrete events gathering limits. 
  • The USDA yesterday announced the extension of the waivers through September 30, 2021, that will allow all children to continue to receive free meals through the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option. 
  • Please be mindful of phishing scams, which are on the rise during the pandemic. These types of scams use texts and emails which may try to look like a company you know and trust. Visit the FTC for more information on how to protect yourself, report phishing, or steps to take if you have responded to a phishing email.

March 8
  • The U.S. Senate on Saturday passed the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package, which includes $28.6 billion to help small restaurants. The bill heads to the House this week and, if passed, will go to President Biden for his signature. A Washington Post piece published over the weekend highlighted restaurants as one of the 'business winners' in the stimulus package because of the National Restaurant Association (and state affiliates like PRLA) effective advocacy for the specific relief fund as well as other relief tools like PPP, expansion of the employee retention tax credit, and defeating efforts to eliminate the tip credit. 
  • The AP is reporting that Pennsylvania state, county, and city governments are slated to receive $13 billion from the $1.9 trillion relief package. The state's share is expected to be about $7.3 billion while the remaining $5.7 billion will go to local governments.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today announced new recommendations for fully vaccinated people, stating they can gather indoors with other vaccinated people without wearing a mask or social distancing. A person is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the last required dose of vaccine. 
  • A new study out by CEO World named the best hospitality and hotel management schools in the world for 2021. The School of Hospitality Management at Penn State ranked 9th and the School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management at Temple ranked 14th. #PAProud  
  • Gov. Wolf today nominated Dr. Denise A. Johnson to serve as Physician General. Dr. Johnson will succeed Dr. Wendy Braund, who served as the interim physician general following the departure of Dr. Rachel Levine. Dr. Johnson will have to be confirmed by the Pa. Senate. READ MORE
  • The Private Event Professional Pennsylvania (PEPP) today announced the launch of its new website, www.letpamarryus.com, designed to bring awareness to elected officials of the challenges facing the industry in the wake of continued shutdowns and restrictions of private events. 
  • Valley Forge Tourism has partnered with Workhorse Brewing for a virtual tasting for its March 18 Tourism Talks event. Interested in tuning in and tasting some local brews, simply register and order your beers. Beer must be picked up at Workhorse Brewing on March 14. 
  • The City of Pittsburgh today tweeted a reminder that the Paid Sick Days Act will go into effect on March 15, 2021. MORE INFO
  • Jeff Bartos, a Republican who ran for lieutenant governor in 2018, today formally launched his campaign for Pa.'s wide-open U.S. Senate seat. READ MORE
  • Morgan Stanley released its analysis of OpenTable data on seated diners year-over-year growth. Of the ten most populous states, Pennsylvania ranks 7th, with y/y growth down -48% and only Illinois (-53%) and New York (-62%) with worse results, despite Pa. consumers eating out more in the past month. 

March 5
  • Raise the Wage falls short in the U.S. Senate by a vote of 58-42. The Senate today is working on the Rescue America Plan, which is likely to be approved over the weekend. Raise the Wage is a top Democratic priority and will return at some point this legislative session but it will not be tied to the current stimulus plan. READ MORE
  • The Pa. House Republicans are seeking input from business owners on what is needed to recover from the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic. TAKE SURVEY
  • Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey today announced the elimination of occupancy limits on indoor dining while preserving mask-wearing and social distancing requirements. 
  • OSHA is expected to issue COVID-19 standards on March 15 in response to President Biden's "Executive Order on Protecting Worker Health and Safety." The new OSHA emergency rule would require employers to comply with mandatory standards to address COVID-19 in the workplace, including masks. The Restaurant Law Center will be holding a webinar on March 25 at 3 p.m. on OSHA compliance. REGISTER
  • Restaurants added 286,000 jobs in February. Three out of every four jobs created last month were at a restaurant as stimulus payments and dining room reopenings put some life back into the industry. READ MORE​

March 4
  • The United States will suspend retaliatory tariffs against Britain for four months arising from the longstanding trade dispute about subsidies for Boeing and Airbus. Scotch whisky and Stilton cheese producers will benefit as exports of both products have dropped by about 35%. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia Councilmembers Bass and Henon today introduced a resolution calling for hearings on the impact of the Health Department's mitigation decisions on the restaurant industry. Councilmembers Squilla and Domb have co-sponsored the resolution.
  • If you missed today's PRLA webinar on the employee retention tax credit by EF Cost Recovery, you can watch it on-demand here.
  • The U.S. Senate today voted to begin debating the $1.9  trillion COVID-19 relief bill. Senators will have up to 20 hours to debate the legislation once the clerk finishes reading the 628-page document. READ MORE 
  • Every day is a bonus day for Ruth Shuster, a 100-year-old team member of North Huntingdon, Pa.'s McDonald's Big Mac Museum. Congratulations, Ruth! READ MORE
  • The History Channel's Modern Marvels will take viewers behind the scenes of Lancaster County's Turkey Hill and explore how Armor Frey founded the businesses with a milk delivery route on March 7 at 10 p.m. READ MORE
  • PRLA partner Heartland launched Community Connected by Restaurants to introduce top-of-class products for restaurants and make it easier for operators to grow and adapt their businesses. LEARN MORE
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association's Public Affairs Conference takes place virtually on April 20, with virtual legislative meetings on April 22 & 23. Register here; PRLA members use the code PAFCMEMBER for your member discount.
  • Slippery Rock University is seeking mentors for students in its hospitality program. Mentors are asked to commit 2-3 hours in March and April to connect with 1-2 students for one-on-one virtual conversations. If you are interested, please fill out the Mentor Form today.

March 3
  • Today, Gov. Wolf announced that Pennsylvania will use the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine for PreK-12 teachers and school staff. PEMA will partner with the 28 Intermediate Units to establish vaccine sites, with the Pa. National Guard administering the shot. READ MORE
  • If you missed this morning's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. Be sure to join us next Wednesday, when special guest Dr. Jignesh Sheth, chief medical officer of the Wright Center, stops by to discuss the coronavirus vaccines. Submit your questions in advance using this form. 
  • Philadelphia today further clarified its guidance for social gatherings. While the city's limits align with the state's limits (15% maximum occupancy indoors/20% outdoors), please note the following:
    • Indoor gatherings not in a private residence may not serve any food or drink
    • Outdoor gatherings that serve food or drink may not have more than 100 attendees
    • Indoor gatherings in a private residence are permitted with only one other household besides your own
  • DYK? PRLA members can post their open positions on the PRLA Job Board for free. If you need any help getting started, please contact Eric Adams at eadams@prla.org.  
  • The National Restaurant Association is hosting a webinar tomorrow, March 4 at 1 p.m. to update operators on the various restaurant relief efforts, like PPP, ERTC, and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. REGISTER
  • The National Restaurant Association today reported that the IRS recently released guidance for employee retention tax credits (ERTC) for 2020. IRS Guidance | NRA ERTC Fact Sheet
  • The PRLA is hosting a webinar tomorrow on the ERTC presented by EF Cost Recovery, which is a service that will take care of all aspects of filing your ERTC. REGISTER 
  • Last night, the White House issued a press release highlighting the National Restaurant Association's support for the American Rescue Plan and the most recent operator survey results underscoring the need for swift passage of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. The RRF is so close to landing on the President's desk and we need your help getting it there. TAKE ACTION 

March 2
  • Texas Gov. Greg Abbott today announced that all COVID-19 mandates, including mask requirements and indoor dining restrictions, will be lifted on March 10. READ MORE
  • Meanwhile, federal officials warn of a 4th COVID wave if state restrictions keep easing. Massachusetts and Arkansas recently allowed restaurants to put 100% of their dining-room seating back into use provided they still keep patrons at least 6-feet apart, while South Carolina restaurants have been permitted to be at 100% since October. READ MORE 
  • Philadelphia officials today announced that it was working to update its Safer-at-Home Order and local guidance to align with the new event limit guidance issued by the state. The city will now follow the state guidance of 15% capacity at indoor events and 20% capacity at outdoor events and these changes take effect immediately. READ MORE 
  • The top Pa. Republican in the Pa. Senate has quietly appointed the spouse of a colleague to a coveted spot on the state's Gaming Control Board. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association Show scheduled for May has been canceled due to pandemic-related gathering restrictions in Chicago. The event organizers, Winsight Exhibitions, sent a letter to all registered attendees of their options to either apply their registration to 2022 or request a refund by March 19. All questions should be directed to nraregistration@winsightmedia.com. 
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from high school seniors and current undergrads who are pursuing degrees in culinary arts or hospitality management fields. The PRLAEF will award 12 $2,000 scholarships in 2021. MORE INFO
  • In honor of International Women's Day, AHLA invites you to join a special two-part livestream event featuring a dynamic panel of industry leaders on March 8 at 1 and 4 p.m. MORE INFO
  • Counties are slowly rolling out information on their CHIRP applications and pre-application webinars. Bookmark your county website so it's handy when the application is released.
  • ICYMI: The Food Network's Restaurant Impossible with Chef Robert Irvine is currently casting for its upcoming season. Visit the casting website for details on applying for the show. 
  • PRLA extends its condolences to the family of Ty Bailey, owner of Philadelphia's Knave of Hearts restaurant and pioneering leader of the city's restaurant renaissance, who passed away last month. READ MORE
  • Food Shelter PR has served as PRLA's pro bono communications partner since 2018. Through the pandemic, FS vastly strengthened the association's voice by drafting and distributing time-sensitive info, securing interviews, and establishing innumerable results in multiple press outlets. As business starts to return, Food Shelter is offering its marketing expertise while giving back to the industry. Launching today and with every new client signed, Food Shelter is pledging 10% of its service fees to go directly to HARP because the firm understands and appreciates the true definition and nature of the word hospitality. For details, email info@food-shelter.com. 

March 1
  • This morning, Gov. Wolf announced revisions to the gathering limits and eliminated out-of-state travel restrictions. 
    • The limit for indoor events is now 15% of maximum occupancy regardless of venue size and 6-foot physical distancing is still required.
    • The limit for outdoor events is now 20% of maximum occupancy regardless of venue size and 6-foot physical distancing is still required. 
    • Out-of-state travel restrictions were lifted. It is no longer necessary for travelers to Pennsylvania to have a negative COVID test or 14-day self-quarantine.
  • The Philadelphia Department of Labor today announced that its Office of Worker Protections will begin enforcing the predictability pay requirement from Philadelphia's Fair Workweek law on June 1, 2021. READ MORE
  • Food Shelter PR has served as PRLA's pro bono communications partner since 2018. Through the pandemic, FS vastly strengthened the association's voice by drafting and distributing time-sensitive info, securing interviews, and establishing innumerable results in multiple press outlets. As business starts to return, Food Shelter is offering its marketing expertise while giving back to the industry. Launching today and with every new client signed, Food Shelter is pledging 10% of its service fees to go directly to HARP because the firm understands and appreciates the true definition and nature of the word hospitality. For details, email info@food-shelter.com. 
  • Pa. House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff today called for a legislative committee investigation into how the Wolf Administration handled COVID-19 in nursing and personal care homes since about half of Pennsylvania's pandemic-related deaths occurred in such facilities. READ MORE 
  • Sean Kennedy, EVP of Government Affairs at the National Restaurant Association, provides a 90-second update on what's happening at the federal level. 
  • The National Restaurant Association will host a webinar on Thursday, March 4 at 1 p.m. to update operators on the restaurant relief efforts, such as the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, PPP, and Employee Retention Tax Credits. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association is assembling an advocacy video to illustrate what the industry has endured over the past year. Can you take a couple of minutes to record a selfie video on what you have endured over the past year?
  • Counties are slowly rolling out information on their CHIRP applications and pre-application webinars. Bookmark your county website so it's handy when the application is released.

February 26
  • Last night, Senate parliamentarian, Elizabeth MacDonough, ruled that the Raise the Wage Act is ineligible for inclusion into the budget reconciliation bill. John talks more about what this means in It Happened This Week.
  • Philadelphia Health Commissioner Farley today announced changes to Philadelphia's mitigation guidelines, including:
    • Restaurants may have up to six people per table for outdoor dining, and they do not have to be from the same household. Indoor dining is still limited to 25% capacity and four people per table. Restaurants are still at 25% seating capacity indoors unless the criteria are met in the Enhanced Ventilation Standards for Indoor Dining and Application Form for Increased Dining Capacity (PDF). The accompanying application form must be completed and returned to Environmental Health Services (EHS).
    • Outdoor catered events are permitted with a maximum of 100 people. The previous limit was 50 people. Indoor catered events remain prohibited.
    • Professional sports teams can have spectators, with a maximum of 2,500 people outdoors and 500 people indoors — the same as the state limit.
    • Theaters can allow food and drink inside, as long as people are seated in groups of four or less.
    • Religious services can increase capacity to 20%, an increase from the previous restriction of 10%.
    • Senior centers can open, with a requirement that people wear K95 masks or two masks at once, and a limit of 25 people per room.
  • ICYMI: The National Restaurant Association is assembling an advocacy video to illustrate what the industry has endured over the past year. Can you take a couple of minutes to record a selfie video on what you have endured over the past year?
  • Counties are slowly rolling out information on their CHIRP applications and pre-application webinars. Check your county website for information.
  • CBRE Hotels Advisors today released its latest sector update, which shows case counts plummeting across the nation, promising economic indicators, and the volatility of hotel performance. 
  • Hope for Hospitality, a campaign to encourage residents of southeastern PA to eat locally this winter runs until March 31. LEARN MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association Show today announced that it would be canceled for the second straight year due to limits on gathering sizes. Organizers will instead provide year-round industry resources. READ MORE
  • The Employee Retention Tax Credit encourages businesses to keep employees on their payroll and is something many restaurants may be eligible for. ERTC is meant to be something a business may take advantage of without assistance; however, EF Cost Recovery is a service that will complete the process for you (at a cost of 10% of your return).  
February 25
  • The National Restaurant Association is assembling an advocacy video to illustrate what the industry has endured over the past year. Can you take a couple of minutes to record a selfie video on what you have endured over the past year?
  • We are continuing our advocacy to remove the Raise the Wage provision from the new stimulus bill. We encourage you and your tipped employees to TAKE ACTION by writing your elected officials and urging them to preserve the tip credit. INFOGRAPHIC | Why Tipping Works
  • Earlier this week, the National Restaurant Association released the latest results of its Economic Impact Survey. Thanks to you, we had enough data for Pennsylvania-specific results. NATIONAL | PENNSYLVANIA  Today through our partners at Food Shelter PR, PRLA issued a press release on how PA compares to the national data.
  • Counties are slowly rolling out information on their CHIRP applications and pre-application webinars. Check your county website for information.
    • The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC will be administering CHIRP for Dauphin and Perry counties and is hosting a pre-application webinar on March 11 at 9 a.m. REGISTER 
  • Slippery Rock University is seeking mentors for students in its hospitality program. Mentors are asked to commit 2-3 hours in March and April to connect with 1-2 students for one-on-one virtual conversations. If you are interested, please fill out the Mentor Form today.
  • Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine today announced that sporting and entertainment venues will be permitted to reopen with 25% indoor and 30% outdoor capacity. He did not announce guidance for events like weddings, fairs, parades, or festivals, though. READ MORE
  • PRLA, in partnership with the National Restaurant Association, produced this new video to encourage the public to dine out and carryout in PA. Check it out here. 

February 24
  • Starting today, the Small Business Administration will only review or accept Paycheck Protection Program applications from businesses with fewer than 20 employees for the next two weeks. The program ends on March 31 and we encourage all qualifying businesses to explore their options prior to its expiration. 
  • Breakfast at restaurants is starting to rebound, according to Nation's Restaurant News. Adapting to later mornings, focusing on comfort foods, and creating dishes ideal for takeout and delivery are factors in the upswing. 
  • The City of Philadelphia will be hosting a webinar for restaurants with outdoor setups on Thursday, February 25 at 8:30 a.m. The goal of this session is to ensure businesses, industry partners, and contractors all understand the city's Outdoor Dining Guidelines. There will be time for an open Q&A session. REGISTER
  • The Food Network's Restaurant Impossible with Chef Robert Irvine is currently casting for its upcoming season. Visit the casting website for details on applying for the show. 
  • The AHLA today released its 2021 policy priorities. 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • Our friends at the Delaware Restaurant Association are hosting a free Women of Hospitality Webinar Workshop featuring a panel of women restaurateurs, including Philadelphia's Ellen Yin of High Street Hospitality, on Tuesday, March 2 at 11 a.m. DETAILS & REGISTRATION
  • The Pa. Senate today approved legislation allowing members of the Pa. National Guard to aid in the distribution of the coronavirus vaccine. The bill expands the Guard's authority in distributing and administering the vaccine. Pennsylvania currently ranks 46th in the nation in terms of the percentage of distributed vaccines that have been administered.  
  • This week, we are continuing our advocacy to remove the Raise the Wage provision from the new stimulus bill. We encourage you and your tipped employees to TAKE ACTION by writing your elected officials and urging them to preserve the tip credit. INFOGRAPHIC | Why Tipping Works
  • ICYMI: The PRLA recently announced a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO & ENROLL

February 23
  • A new study by Bluedot has found that consumers are becoming less stressed about getting food in stores and restaurants during the pandemic. More than half of those surveyed admitted that while they avoided in-store pick-ups at the start of the pandemic, they feel comfortable doing so now. READ MORE
  • There is still time to submit an application to PRLA's HARP fund. We'll be accepting another 200 applications from frontline hospitality workers who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Grants are $250 and are first-come, first-served of the completed applications. MORE INFO 
  • The City of Philadelphia will be hosting a webinar for restaurants with outdoor setups on Thursday, February 25 at 8:30 a.m. The goal of this session is to ensure businesses, industry partners, and contractors all understand the city's Outdoor Dining Guidelines. There will be time for an open Q&A session. REGISTER
  • Philadelphia's event capacity restrictions expire on February 28 so we expect city officials to make an announcement this week on event capacity. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Commissioner Farley said the Phillies will "likely" be able to have fans in the stands on opening day but specifics have not been released. 
  • Marriott International today announced the appointment of Anthony "Tony" Capuano as CEO and Stephanie Linnartz president of the company. READ MORE
  • The Morning Call yesterday published an interactive map of what each county will get under the COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP). County allocations are based on population proportion. 
    • The Pittsburgh Urban Redevelopment Authority is hosting a webinar about the grant on March 3 at noon for Allegheny County businesses eligible for CHIRP funds. LAUNCH MEETING
  • Starting tomorrow (Feb. 24), the Small Business Administration will only review or accept Paycheck Protection Program applications from businesses with fewer than 20 employees for the next two weeks. The program ends on March 31 and we encourage all qualifying businesses to explore their options prior to its expiration. 
  • PRLA extends its sympathies to the family of Patricia Kling Burnely, who founded Lancaster's Kitchen Kettle Village with her husband Robert. READ MORE
  • The State of California today ordered Burgerim to refund franchise fees paid more than 1,500 people and pay nearly $4 million in fines. READ MORE
  • This week, we are continuing our advocacy to remove the Raise the Wage provision from the new stimulus bill. We encourage you and your tipped employees to TAKE ACTION by writing your elected officials and urging them to preserve the tip credit. INFOGRAPHIC | Why Tipping Works
  • ICYMI: The PRLA recently announced a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO & ENROLL

February 22
  • HARP will be reopening its application at midnight on Tuesday, February 23, and accepting another 200 applications from frontline hospitality workers who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Grants are $250 and are first-come, first-served of the completed applications. MORE INFO 
  • The National Restaurant Association released the latest results of its Economic Impact Survey. Thanks to you, we had enough data for Pennsylvania-specific results. NATIONAL | PENNSYLVANIA
  • Is your food service manager certification up-to-date? PRLA's ServSafe partner HRFoodSafe has in-person classes coming up across Pennsylvania in March. FIND A CLASS
  • Montgomery County has awarded $6 million in grants to 600 foodservice businesses as part of its MontcoStrong 2021 Restaurant Grant Program. READ MORE
  • Starting Wednesday and running for two weeks, independent restaurants and other companies with fewer than 20 employees will be the only businesses allowed to apply for PPP funding. READ MORE
  • New data from Datex Property Solutions suggests wide gaps in the ability to pay rent between independent restaurants and their chain counterparts. READ MORE
  • The AHLA last week announced that because of its ongoing efforts, the CDC updated the vaccine prioritization document to include "travel accommodation" under phase 1C of the vaccine distribution. 
  • Too Good to Go, an international anti-food waste app that built a following in Europe, is coming to Philadelphia this week. The app links food businesses to consumers. Businesses sell their surplus food to consumers, who don't know what they will get — only that it will be wholesome and valued at about 1/3 of retail. READ MORE  
  • PRLA extends its condolences to the family of George Harry Martin, who owned three Pittsburgh bars over the years before finding fame as the city's oldest bartender. Martin passed away earlier this month at age 93. READ MORE
  • GrubStreet takes on the notion that ghost kitchens are the future of the industry. READ MORE
  • This week, we are continuing our advocacy to remove the Raise the Wage provision from the new stimulus bill. We encourage you and your tipped employees to TAKE ACTION by writing your elected officials and urging them to preserve the tip credit. INFOGRAPHIC | Why Tipping Works

February 19
  • Today is the deadline to submit an application to the Cumberland County Small Business Relief Working Capital Program. Program eligibility and application materials can be found on their website.
  • This week, the National Restaurant Association has focused on removing the Raise the Wage provision from the new stimulus bill. We encourage you and your tipped employees to TAKE ACTION by writing your elected officials and urging them to preserve the tip credit. INFOGRAPHIC | Why Tipping Works
  • The next action you can take is to register for the National Restaurant Association's Legislative Affairs Conference. It's 100% virtual this year, with programming on April 20 and virtual visits with lawmakers on April 21 and 22. Register here; PRLA members use the code PAFCMEMBER for your member discount.
  • Eligible restaurants can now access employee retention tax credits (ERTC) for both 2020 and 2021 for eligible employee wages, as long as these specific wages were not directly paid with PPP loan funds. MORE INFO
  • HARP will be reopening its application on Tuesday, February 23, and accepting another 200 applications from frontline hospitality workers who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. 
  • The Wall Street Journal today published an opinion article by Dr. Makary, a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health, who argues that the US will have herd immunity to COVID-19 by April. 
  • West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice has ordered the loosening of pandemic restrictions on businesses after a decline in coronavirus deaths and cases. Among the flurry of announcements included allowing bars and restaurants to increase to 75% occupancy so long as social distancing is maintained. READ MORE 
  • Uber lost a landmark case in the United Kingdom Supreme Court and now must classify drivers on its platform as workers, not self-employed contractors. READ MORE
  • State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta yesterday launched a campaign for the U.S. Senate. READ MORE
February 18
  • Today, Congressman Dwight Evans (D-3rd) sent a letter to Health Commissioner Farley urging him to revisit the city's standards for safe indoor dining, taking neighboring counties' standards into consideration. READ MORE
  • The deadline to submit an application to the Cumberland County Small Business Relief Working Capital Program is tomorrow, February 19. Program eligibility and application materials can be found on their website.
  • Yesterday, PR firm Brownstein launched Fully Booked, a program aimed exclusively at supporting hospitality, entertainment, and tourism businesses. Fully Booked will offer premium PR services for brands in the Philadelphia region at affordable rates to help them rebound and grow from the challenges of the last year. Additionally, Brownstein will donate 5% of all profits from Fully Booked to HARP. READ MORE | REQUEST INFO 
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association released its Blueprint for State and Local Restaurant Recovery by sending letters to the National Governors Association, the US Conference of Mayors, and the National Conference of Legislatures. Additionally, the Association created a petition for you to sign in support of the Blueprint. 
  • ICYMI: The PRLA recently announced a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO & ENROLL
  • A picture of two Domino's employees from San Antonio went viral for helping feed fellow Texans in the aftermath of the winter storm. READ MORE
  • Four Pa. restaurants were named to Yelp's Top 100 Places to Eat in 2021. Philadelphia's Cafe La Maude(#22), Zahav (#32), and Royal Sushi & Izakaya (#100), along with Pittsburgh's DiAnoia's Eatery (#32) represent the Keystone State on the list. READ MORE
  • NASA Preserverance rover successfully landed on Mars today. Check out its first images here.

February 17
  • Philadelphia officials today shared two video tutorials explaining the measurements and the application for restaurant operators who want to increase occupancy to 50%. 
  • ATTN Philadelphia Businesses: Complete this questionnaire to help the City plan for vaccine distribution for workers in phases 1B and 1C. Restaurant employees are in phase 1B in Philadelphia.
  • If you missed today's Industry Update webinar, you can watch it on-demand here. The big takeaway from today's update is the need for operators and their tipped staff to engage on the Action Alert for the minimum wage plan, particularly in preserving the tip credit. 
  • Rep. Rader (R, Monroe) introduced HB 554, which would create a grant program for destination marketing organizations (DMOs) impacted by COVID with funding through upcoming federal dollars.
  • The House Republican Caucus today launched the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Business Survey, which is seeking input from Pa. business owners on what relief and assistance are needed to recover from the devastation of the pandemic. READ MORE
  • Egypt uncovers possible 'world's oldest brewery' in the ancient city of Abydos. This high-production beer factory dates back 3,000 B.C., producing about 22,400 liters of beer at a time. READ MORE
  • Pa. health officials discovered a significant mistake relating to the distribution of the Moderna vaccine, potentially impacting up to 100,000 individuals. READ MORE
  • McDonald's faces another discrimination lawsuit, the third since September 2020. READ MORE

February 16
  • This morning, Marriott International announced the unexpected passing of Arne Sorenson, president and CEO. Earlier this month, the company announced that Mr. Sorenson would be reducing his schedule to facilitate more demanding treatment for pancreatic cancer. PRLA extends our deepest sympathies to the Sorenson and Marriott International families. READ MORE
  • S. Prestley Blake, who co-founded the Friendly's ice cream chain with his brother in 1935, died last week at the age of 106. Washington Post Obituary
  • State Sen. John Blake (D, Lackawanna) today announced his plans to resign his seat to join the office of U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright on March 8. A special election has not yet been announced to fill that seat. READ MORE
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association released a new infographic on the impact a new wage would have on the industry. The NRA also sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to remove the Raise the Wage provision in the new stimulus bill. Take Action to tell your elected officials that now is not the time to attach wage increases to much-needed relief for the industry. 
  • PRLA wishes the very best to our former government affairs specialist, Mary Yoder, who today started her new job as the Executive Director of the Senate Local Government Committee.

February 12
​NEWS
  • Eligible restaurants can now access employee retention tax credits (ERTC) for both 2020 and 2021 for eligible employee wages, as long as these specific wages were not directly paid with PPP loan funds. MORE INFO 
  • Cumberland County Small Business Relief Working Capital Program is accepting applications from county businesses until February 19. ELIGIBILITY INFO | APPLICATION
  • Small Business Administration data shows that the foodservice industry received more than $18 billion in second-round PPP loans since the program reopened Jan. 11. READ MORE
  • Guy Fieri has quietly opened a series of ghost kitchens in 23 states and the District of Columbia. READ MORE
  • The Washington Post today ran an op-ed by bartender Valerie Graham asking Congress to remove the tip credit from the Raise the Wage Act proposal. READ MORE
  • PRLA's Daily Update will publish again on Tuesday, February 16. Enjoy your weekend!
ACTION ALERTSBENEFITS/SERVICES
February 11
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer today published an op-ed by Qamara Edwards, PRLA Philadelphia Chapter President and director of business & events for Sojourn Philly, in response to the City's recently released ventilation standards. 
  • Yesterday, Gov. Wolf announced that the $145 million in hospitality relief funding is ready for distribution to Pa. counties. The application for businesses is not yet open, with March 15 the earliest date it could open. Representatives from DCED will be joining one of our Industry Update webinars prior to March 15 to discuss the program, details to be announced soon. 
  • Yesterday, the National Restaurant Association with the Independent Restaurant Coalition and a coalition of other trade groups sent a letter to Congressional leaders in support of a targeted small business grant program for restaurants. 
  • The House will be voting on the $25 billion RESTAURANTS Act the week of Feb. 22. Nation's Restaurant News breaks down the details of the legislation. ACTION ALERT: Ask your lawmakers to co-sponsor the unified RESTAURANTS Act of 2021. 
  • The Small Business Administration has provided guidance to second-draw PPP borrowers with a HOLD CODE on their first loan. 
    • The platform provides the Lender with an opportunity to submit information and documentation to support the resolution of the outstanding first-draw PPP loan hold code. 
    • The Lender must resolve the Hold Code by submitting information and documentation for SBA review and resolution. The platform reference guide "Unresolved Borrower Resolution Process for Second Draw PPP Loans" lists the Hold Codes that require SBA resolution, as well as what information and documentation are required to resolve. 
  • Former McDonald's employee from Harrisburg, Pa. recently launched a new delivery service, Eat365 Today, to compete against DoorDash and Grubhub in Central Pennsylvania. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association and a coalition of trade groups initiated an action alert to tell state legislators to support legislation that would allow bars, restaurants, and distilleries to sell cocktails to-go permanently to help accelerate the industry's recovery from the pandemic. TAKE ACTION
  • When normalcy returns, don't expect customers to shift completely back to in-house dining. Delivery has become an essential growth driver for the industry. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: The Hope for Hospitality PA campaign is underway in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties through March 31. Customers who purchase $25 or more at any restaurant in those counties can enter for a chance to win a $25 AmEx gift card. MORE INFO

February 10
  • Gov. Wolf today announced that the $145 million in hospitality relief funding is ready for distribution to Pa. counties. Funding will be provided in the form of block grants to each county based on population and will be allocated by February 28. MORE INFO
  • On today's Industry Update webinar, Melissa Bova was joined by an expert from Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz, a certified public accountant firm, to discuss some of the tax implications of the PPP loan, as well as the employee retention tax credit. If you missed today's live event, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • ACTION ALERT: Ask your lawmakers to co-sponsor the unified RESTAURANTS Act of 2021. 
  • New data suggests that around 40 percent of all jobs lost since February 2020 have been in the leisure and hospitality industry. The latest Department of Labor national jobs report found another 61,000 jobs were lost in the sector last month, signifying lingering pandemic-related stress. READ MORE
  • Today is the last day to complete the National Restaurant Association's latest coronavirus impact survey. The data gathered is critical to our ongoing advocacy for the industry. TAKE SURVEY
  • Restaurant Business Editor Pete Romeo provided a detailed look at President Biden's Restaurant Relief Fund, which is part of his $1.9 trillion package. READ MORE
  • Earlier this month, President Joe Biden signed an executive order that directs FEMA to cover 100% of the costs needed to help restaurants partner with local soup kitchens and food pantries, instead of the typical 75%. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Yesterday, the Philadelphia Department of Health today announced new ventilation standards for restaurants that want to increase to 50% capacity for indoor dining as early as Friday, February 12. The standards and application are available online. 

February 9
  • The Philadelphia Department of Health today announced new ventilation standards for restaurants that want to increase to 50% capacity for indoor dining as early as Friday, February 12. The standards and application are available online. The PRLA Philadelphia Chapter will be responding to these complex and flawed standards. 
  • The Wolf Administration today announced the creation of a COVID-19 vaccine joint task force with the Legislature to streamline communications between the two branches of state government. READ MORE
  • Applications for the Philadelphia COVID-19 Restaurant and Gym Relief Program are due by 11:59 p.m. tonight. MORE INFO 
  • A new law signed in late December 2020 makes restaurants eligible for an employee retention tax credit, even if they received a PPP loan. READ HOW IT WORKS
  • With temperatures dipping and more snow in the forecast, Hospitality Insurance Group reminds you to review its Winterproof your Workplace risk management assessment to protect your business from winter-related issues. 
  • The City of Philadelphia has launched a website for businesses to help essential workers get vaccinated. The website allows employers to tell the city how many essential workers they have so those employees can get notified when they are able to be vaccinated. 
  • The National Restaurant Association has prepared several resources for operators to use in engaging their tipped employees in the fight to preserve the tip credit, including the website Why Tipping Works and the Restaurant Association of Metro Washington's toolkit for operators. Tip Credit Action Alert
  • Gov. Wolf today laid out a plan to raise the state's minimum wage to $12/hour effective in July 2021. From there, the wage would be raised $0.50 a year until it reaches $15 by July 2027. READ MORE
  • The Senate trial of former President Trump started today with a debate and vote. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. The survey closes this Wednesday so TAKE THE SURVEY today!

February 8
  • On Friday afternoon, Gov. Wolf signed into law Senate Bill 109, which allocates $145 million to help small businesses impacted by the pandemic. Details are forthcoming but funds are expected to be released to the counties around March 1, with applications to start being accepted in mid-March. READ MORE 
  • PRLA board member Rob Commero writes for LancasterOnline.com about the pandemic's toll on the local restaurant industry. READ MORE
  • Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation today announced the Cumberland County Small Business Relief Working Capital Program to provide immediate support for county businesses impacted by the pandemic. Program eligibility and application materials can be found on their website. The application deadline is Feb. 19.
  • Pa. Lt. Gov. John Fetterman today launched his bid for U.S. Senate. READ MORE
  • Today, a summary of RESTAURANTS Act of 2021 was distributed. The final version and bill numbers will be shared when it is posted. 
  • The Congressional Budget Office today released a report outlining the potential impact of raising the federal minimum wage to $15/hour by 2025. READ MORE
  • Ohio city takes delivery into its own hands to provide fee-free delivery that has saved restaurants and consumers thousands of dollars. READ MORE
  • SmartBrief takes a look at the food and flavor trends for 2021. Several companies have released their predictions for what flavors will be trending in 2021, with nostalgic tastes, unfamiliar flavors, and functional food and drinks showing up across surveys. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association's Sean Kennedy gives a 90-second overview of everything underway in Washington. WATCH
  • The Restaurant Law Center reviews legal issues that can impact a mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy and will be holding a free webinar on Feb. 11 on employer-considerations on mandatory vaccinations. REGISTER
  • Ghost kitchens boost revenue for struggling Pa. restaurants. READ MORE
  • New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today that indoor dining can reopen in New York City on Friday, two days earlier than his initial announcement. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. The survey closes this Wednesday so TAKE THE SURVEY today!

February 5
  • Last night, the Pa. House made the following changes to SB 109, which allocates the $145 million to the hospitality industry.
    • Included CDFIs as distributors of the grants in additions to CEDOs
    • Reduced the 500 FTE employee count to 300 FTE employees
    • Clarifies that PPP loans are not subject to personal income tax
    • Other provisions, such as $15 million in revenue/year and the 72 NCAIS code, remain in place
  • The bill passes unanimously in both chambers and Gov. Tom Wolf has indicated that he will sign the legislation. 
  • Congress today introduced a unified RESTAURANTS Act of 2021. Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) introduced the Senate version, while Reps. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the House version. READ MORE 
  • Last night and into this morning, the U.S. Senate held a "vote-a-rama" to set the stage for a reconciliation vote of President Biden's proposed $1.9 trillion American relief plan. The Senate voted unanimously in favor of an amendment by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) that would remove minimum wage from the relief plan. READ MORE
  • Hope for Hospitality PA is a campaign presented by Chester County's Brandywine Valley, Main Line Today, Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, Visit Bucks County, Visit Delco PA, and PRLA. Now through March 31st, customers who purchase $25 or more at any restaurant in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, or Montgomery Counties can enter for a chance to win a weekly $25 American Express gift card. Customers can enter by posting a photo from their 2021 dine-in, take-out, or delivery experience and tagging the restaurant and #HopeforHospitalityPA. Feel free to promote to your customers to encourage them to support you! Head to www.hopeforhospitalitypa.com for further details.
  • The Pa. House today unanimously approved a bill that would tap the state's National Guard to assist in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. It now goes to the Senate for consideration. The Wolf Administration has expressed its support after initially opposing some of its wording.  READ MORE
  • Unfortunately, nearly one-third of hospitality workers don't intend to get COVID vaccinations, according to a recent survey by the workforce technology company Harri. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY

February 4
  • The U.S. Senate today is likely to vote on two amendments that are important to the hospitality industry: elimination of the tip credit and restaurant relief. The National Restaurant Association has created Action Alerts for both issues so you can add your voice on these topics. MINIMUM WAGE | RESTAURANT RELIEF
  • AHLA has called on Congress to immediately implement additional long-term grant programs for industries and workers that have been decimated by the pandemic. Many mid- to large-sized businesses in the hospitality sector do not qualify for PPP and have received no relief during the pandemic. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • Philadelphia Councilman Allan Domb today called on congressional leaders to enact a tax credit that would allow businesses to purchase and install new ventilation and air filtration technology systems in the workplace. READ MORE
  • Today, the Pa. House Finance Committee voted HB 385 (Dunbar—R. Westmoreland) by a vote of 19-6. This bill would clarify that PPP loans are not subject to state income tax. 
  • A massive chicken wing shortage is brewing. Wing reserves are at their lowest in a decade and prices are steadily climbing, which is not good news leading into Super Bowl Sunday when Americans are expected to consume 1.4 billion wings. READ MORE
  • Restaurants, big and small, are embracing paid time off as the way to get employees vaccinated without plunging into the murky area of requiring the shots. READ MORE
  • PennLive.com's Charles Thompson breaks down the Governor's budget presentation and the subsequent response from the GOP. READ MORE 
  • ICYMI: The winter issue of PRLA's quarterly magazine is now available online. This issue recaps the 2019-2020 legislative session and discusses PRLA's priorities for the 2021-22 session. READ NOW

February 3
  • Gov. Wolf delivered his budget address today. READ MORE
  • The House Tourism & Recreational Development Committee held a hearing today with the state Tourism Office to discuss the state of the tourism industry in Pennsylvania. WATCH ARCHIVE
  • The winter issue of PRLA's quarterly magazine is now available online. This issue recaps the 2019-2020 legislative session and discusses PRLA's priorities for the 2021-22 session. READ NOW
  • If you missed today's Industry Update with Melissa Bova, you can watch it on-demand here. Next week, experts from the accounting firm Brown Shultz Sheridan Fritz will be joining us to discuss how to navigate tax season taking into account programs like EIDL and PPP. REGISTER 
  • Congress is drafting their stimulus plan now. We need you to weigh in today to ensure this plan does not set back our restaurants or our tipped employees. Take action to save the tip credit by sending a message to your elected officials. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • Lending experts from Orrstown Bank will provide an overview of the Economic Aid Act, its impact on PPP loans, and best practices for preparing your PPP application during a complimentary webinar on Monday, Feb. 8 at noon. REGISTER
  • Gov. Phil Murphy today issued an executive order to expand indoor dining capacity to 35% and lift the 10 p.m. indoor service limit. The order takes effect on February 5. READ MORE
  • An about-face by Gov. Andrew Cuomo has cleared the way for front- and back-of-house employees in New York to begin rolling up their sleeves if supplies are available. READ MORE
  • Foodservice distributors are bullish on an independent restaurant comeback. READ MORE
  • Effective February 20, Saturday hours (9 a.m.-2 p.m.) will only continue at the 5 LSCs below. The other 8 LSCs will be open Monday through Friday.
    • LSC 1532, 100 Willowbrook Lane, Ste 108, West Chester, PA 19382
    • LSC 4655, 900 Forge Ave., Ste B-2, Norristown, PA 19403
    • LSC 2221, 990 Briarsdale Rd, Unit D, Harrisburg, PA 17109
    • LSC 4004, 1492 Hwy 315, Ste 1, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
    • LSC 0215, 1601 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 
  • Bynum Hospitality Group in partnership with Share Food Program, The Feed Philly Coalition, and Jazz Philadelphia present Share the Love on Saturday, Feb. 13 from 1-4 p.m. at SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club, where restaurant employees can pick up a Box of Love. MORE INFO
  • ICYMI: The PRLA is pleased to announce a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO
​​
February 2
  • Because of the snowstorm, Gov. Wolf's virtual budget address has been delayed until Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. He released his proposed plan today. READ MORE
  • Late yesterday, Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Schumer outlined a framework of the COVID stimulus bill they hope to unveil later this month. The framework includes a reference to a "dedicated grant relief program for restaurants," and Sen. Schumer has suggested that this program will receive $25 billion. Language still needs to be drafted and details are needed, particularly whether the plan will eliminate the tip credit, but the news is encouraging. READ MORE
  • Congress is drafting their stimulus plan now. We need you to weigh in today to ensure this plan does not set back our restaurants or our tipped employees. Take action to save the tip credit by sending a message to your elected officials. 
  • Please complete the newest coronavirus restaurant impact survey. PRLA & NRA are gathering critical data to use in our ongoing advocacy. TAKE SURVEY
  • The U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform sent a coalition letter to Congress urging members to consider targeted and temporary liability protections in the next COVID relief package. READ MORE
  • CNN reports that when a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccine clinic got backed up, the mayor called in an expert to fix the backlog — the manager of a local Chick-fil-A. The manager reduced the hours-long wait to just 15 minutes. READ MORE
  • USA Today's Editorial Board today published an opinion piece that argued against putting the minimum wage piece into the latest COVID stimulus bill. READ MORE
  • Marriott today outlined a temporary shift in its leadership structure while its chief executive, Arne Sorenson, seeks further treatment for his pancreatic cancer. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: The PRLA is pleased to announce a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO

February 1
  • Gov. Wolf will deliver his 2021-22 budget address Tuesday, Feb. 2 at 12:30 p.m. The governor has outlined his agenda and the address will be given virtually.
  • Congress is drafting their stimulus plan now. We need you to weigh in today to ensure this plan does not set back our restaurants or our tipped employees. Take action to save the tip credit by sending a message to your elected officials. 
  • The PRLA is pleased to announce a new partnership with Jefferson Health and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia to provide timely access to COVID-19 testing for Center City Philadelphia restaurants and their employees, with all costs reimbursed. This partnership was made possible by a grant provided by the William Penn Foundation. MORE INFO
  • The PRLA Educational Foundation Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from high school seniors and current undergrads who are pursuing degrees in culinary arts or hospitality management fields. The PRLAEF will award 12 $2,000 scholarships in 2021. MORE INFO
  • The Council of State Restaurant Associations is pleased to announce an additional webinar for the hospitality industry, "Practical Strategies for Coping with COVID Stress and Anxiety." This webinar will air on Feb. 8 at 1 p.m. and again on Feb. 15 at 1 p.m., and is presented by Optum and UnitedHealth Group. There is no registration, simply click on the link at the time of the webinar to join. 
  • CIVITAS will be hosting a webinar on Feb. 4 at 1 p.m. titled "Funding Futures: Options for Empowering Your DMO with Recovery Funding in Pennsylvania." REGISTER
  • Today, Gov. Wolf announced changes at the Department of State after it failed to advertise a constitutional amendment to extend the timeline for victims to file child sexual abuse claims. This error resets the amendment process for this initiative. READ MORE 

January 29
  • Yesterday, Gov. Wolf outlined his agenda for 2021, which focuses on prioritizing COVID-19 pandemic recovery, building on bipartisan progress, and demanding accountability through government reform. READ MORE
  • The U.S. Supreme Court has been asked to take a case that could clarify whether the COVID pandemic's impact on a restaurant's sales qualifies as physical damage or loss, standard causes for compensation under business-interruption insurance. READ MORE
  • As National Human Trafficking Prevention Month comes to a close, we invite you to revisit our webinar with Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking (BEST Alliance) to learn how the hospitality industry can help identify and prevent trafficking. PRLA member businesses can take advantage of additional free training for your employees through BEST Alliance. 
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory today released its weekly hotel sector update. One key finding is that U.S. hotels won't see a recovery in demand until Group Travel comes back, which may take a year or more. DOWNLOAD REPORT
  • The City of Philadelphia's vaccine rollout with the for-profit Philly Fighting COVID is under scrutiny. READ MORE
  • New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo today announced that restaurants in New York City can reopen indoor dining at 25% occupancy starting February 14. READ MORE

January 28
  • DoorDash yesterday announced that it will be expanding its Main Street Strong COVID-19 relief grant program. Pittsburgh was added to the list of cities/counties eligible for the program. MORE INFORMATION
  • Today, the Philadelphia COVID-19 Restaurant and Gym Relief Program began accepting applications for grants of up to $15,000. MORE INFORMATION
  • PRLA extends its sympathy to the family and friends of Sal Scaramuzzino, a long-time bartender/restaurant owner in Center City Philadelphia, who passed away earlier this month. We also appreciate the family's request for donations to our HARP Fund in lieu of flowers to help employees from the industry he loved so much. READ MORE
  • To date, HARP has raised more than $400,000 and distributed more than 1,400 grants to employees from the industry who have been impacted by the pandemic. 
  • The National Restaurant Association earlier this week announced that 42 states lost restaurant jobs in December, with Pennsylvania losing more than 22,000 jobs. READ MORE
  • There really is a national day for everything...Tomorrow, January 29, is Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day and the IRS is holding a Twitter chat at 2 p.m. on EITC to learn more about this credit and how it can help you and your employees. Follow @IRSNews and #EITCday to better understand this benefit.
  • The IRS also wants you to know that individuals who receive $72,000 or less in income may qualify to file their tax returns for free using Free File. 
  • If you missed today's webinar with the U.S. Small Business Administration about small business funding options, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • Former state representative and Minority Leader Frank Dermody today was named the newest member to the state's Gaming Control Board. Dermody lost his bid for a 16th term in the state House in November. READ MORE

January 27
  • The Wolf Administration today updated the Restaurant Industry Guidance to clarify the use of reusable menus. The guidance now reads:
    • Assign employee(s) to monitor and clean high touch areas frequently while in operation including entrance doors, bathroom surfaces, host stands, etc., and continue to regularly clean all other areas of the restaurant or retail foodservice business. Clean and disinfect any shared items with which customers will come in contact such as tabletops, digital menus, check presenters, and digital payment devices after each customer use.
    • Sanitize reusable menus and digital menus after each use.
  • PRLA and several members today testified before the House Commerce Committee to discuss the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry. READ MORE 
  • On this morning's Industry Update webinar, Melissa Bova was joined by Meaghan Abbott from the Pa. Department of Health who discussed the vaccine rollout in Pennsylvania. WATCH
  • The Pa. Senate today passed unanimously SB 109, which creates the Hospitality Industry Recovery Program—the $145 million grant program for the hospitality industry. The bill now moves over to the House for its consideration. READ MORE
  • If you missed Just A Taste last night with celebrity chef Roy Choi, you can watch the show on-demand now. 
  • Jenn Ladd at the Philadelphia Inquirer dives into how Instagram has become an essential tool in helping Philly restaurants survive the pandemic. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association announced that the 2021 Legislative Affairs Conference will go virtual this year on April 20, 2021, with virtual visits with lawmakers to be held on April 21 and 22. Mark your calendars and look for more information to be released soon. 
  • The National Restaurant Association today sent letters to the US Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, and the National Conference of State Legislatures urging lawmakers not to pass additional mandates that would negatively impact restaurants due to the ongoing pandemic for the next year. READ MORE 

January 26
  • Today, Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Patty Murray (D-WA), reintroduced the “Raise the Wage Act of 2021,” which would increase the federal minimum from the current $7.25 per hour to $15 per hour over five years.  Following that, the federal minimum wage would be indexed to median wage growth. This legislation would also phase out the tip wage for tipped workers. 
  • The National Restaurant Association issued a statement in response to the proposal that pushes back on a triple-digit increase in labor costs in the midst of a pandemic where many restaurants are struggling to stay open amidst indoor dining bans or limits in place for 10 months. READ STATEMENT
  • The state Senate Appropriations Committee today unanimously amended SB 109, which is the allocation of the $145 million the Governor transferred from the Workers' Compensation Fund to allocate for hospitality industry grants. Details will be outlined in the language of the bill but funds will be allocated to counties for grants, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. The full Senate will consider SB 109 tomorrow.
  • PRLA will testify before the state House Commerce Committee regarding the hospitality industry's struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the livestream of the hearing tomorrow (Wednesday, Jan. 27) at 9 a.m. 
  • Join us TONIGHT at 7 p.m. when 4 top chefs in Pennsylvania join celebrity chef Roy Choi for Just a Taste — a live, virtual cooking show to benefit HARP. Watch the livestream at HU Presents or Facebook Live. 
  • The state House Labor & Industry Committee tomorrow will consider HB 178 (James—R, Venango), which would increase the time for an employer or employee to appeal an unemployment compensation determination from 15 to 21 days.
  • The state House Agricultural & Rural Affairs Committee tomorrow will consider HB 101 (Gleim—R, Cumberland), which would provide for limited liability for those involved in agri-tourism. 

January 25
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association released the full 2021 State of the Restaurant Industry report. It covers restaurant sales forecast for 2021, food and menu trends, operational changes, and employment information. While the report is free for members, the NRA is providing it complimentary to all restaurant owners/operators. ACCESS REPORT 
  • Roger Dow, president & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, will be hosting a webinar from the National Press Club on January 27 at 1 p.m. for an update on the state of the American travel industry. The address will cover the relief and stimulus policy priorities needed to safely reignite domestic and international travel. REGISTER
  • Tomorrow at 7 p.m., 4 top chefs in Pennsylvania join celebrity chef Roy Choi for Just a Taste — a live, virtual cooking show to benefit HARP. Watch the livestream at HU Presents or Facebook Live. 
  • A special election to fill the 48th state senatorial district seat left vacant by the recent death of Sen. Dave Arnold will be held on May 18, coinciding with Pennsylvania's primary election. READ MORE
  • Delivery fee caps are everywhere, but are they the answer? Restaurant Business takes a look at the piecemeal approach and whether it helps restaurants. READ MORE
  • California Gov. Newsome today lifted the regional stay-at-home orders, which means restaurants can provide outdoor dining. READ MORE
  • ICYM: The Restaurant Law Center released a document to address questions surrounding mandatory vaccine policies. As a best practice, restaurants should encourage all employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. This document addresses legal questions raised by those operators who want to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment. A follow-up webinar on this topic is scheduled for February 11 at 3 p.m. REGISTER

January 22
  • Gov. Wolf today announced his intentions to nominate Alison Beam as Secretary of Health and named Dr. Wendy Braund Interim Acting Physician General. READ MORE
  • The Restaurant Law Center released a document to address questions surrounding mandatory vaccine policies. As a best practice, restaurants should encourage all employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. This document addresses legal questions raised by those operators who want to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment. A follow-up webinar on this topic is scheduled for February 11 at 3 p.m. REGISTER
  • The City of Philadelphia and PIDC today announced the Philadelphia Restaurant & Gym Relief Program, a $12 million grant program. The online application will open at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 28, and close at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9. MORE INFO
  • Univest Bank & Trust also announced a new micro-loan program for small businesses that operate in Philadelphia. The program loans are up to $25,000 with no payments in year 1 and a 1% interest rate. PROGRAM INFO | PROGRAM CHECKLIST | PROGRAM APPLICATION
  • The Pa. House and Senate return to session next week. 
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 

​January 21
  • The American Hotel & Lodging Association today released its first-ever State of the Industry report. Key findings include:
    • Half of U.S. hotel rooms projected to remain empty
    • Business travel expected to be down 85% through April
    • Nearly half of consumers see vaccine distribution as key to travel 
  • The National Restaurant Association yesterday issued a statement in support of President Biden's comprehensive immigration reform plan. READ MORE
  • Destination Gettysburg President & CEO Norris Flowers today announced his retirement, effective April 1, 2021. We at PRLA have appreciated the opportunity to work with Flowers and wish him well on the next phase of his journey.  
  • January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. PRLA members and their staff are eligible for free training from our partner, BEST Alliance. If you missed today's webinar featuring experts from BEST Alliance, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 

January 20
  • Today, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States. Read the full text of his Inauguration Day Address.  
  • If you missed today's Industry Update, you can watch it on-demand here. 
  • January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. PRLA members and their staff are eligible for free training from our partner, BEST Alliance. BEST Alliance also will be headlining our "Combatting Human Trafficking in Hospitality" webinar tomorrow, January 21, at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 
  • We apologize for yesterday's broken link to the CBRE Hotels Advisory Hotel Outlook analysis. The updated link can be found here. 
  • The next round of PPP is now open to all lenders. The Small Business Administration today made live a searchable database for businesses to find eligible Paycheck Protection Program lenders. LOAN DETAILS/APPLICATIONS  

January 19
  • The next round of PPP is now open to all lenders. The Small Business Administration today made live a searchable database for businesses to find eligible Paycheck Protection Program lenders. LOAN DETAILS/APPLICATIONS  
  • President-elect Joe Biden has tapped Pa. Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine to be his assistant secretary of health. READ MORE
  • Delco Feeds Delco helps support families of unemployed hospitality workers. If you or someone you know would qualify to receive the meal and at $10 gift card to ShopRite, please visit the website to apply. 
  • January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. PRLA members and their staff are eligible for free training from our partner, BEST Alliance. BEST Alliance also will be headlining our "Combatting Human Trafficking in Hospitality" webinar this Thursday at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 
  • CBRE Hotels Advisory today released its Hotel Outlook analysis. A few key findings include a slight improvement in Occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR over the last week, as well as an uptick in hotel closures-particularly luxury and upper-upscale hotels. READ MORE
  • PRLA extends its sympathies to the friends and family of Daniel Monaco, owner of Pittsburgh's Chelsea Grille and Café Monaco, who passed away over the weekend. READ MORE

January 18
  • The National Restaurant Association has submitted comments to the U.S. Treasury and Small Business Administration to request changes to the PPP Second Draw Interim Final Rule to maximize employee retention and save restaurant jobs. 
  • PRLA extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of KeVen Parker, a Philadelphia restaurateur and entrepreneur, perhaps best known for the destination restaurant Ms. Tootsie's Restaurant Bar Lounge and his Ms. Tootsie's stand at the Reading Terminal Market. READ MORE
  • PRLA also offers our condolences to the family of Sen. Dave Arnold, who died Sunday following a battle with brain cancer. READ MORE
  • PrepMod, a system designed to automate vaccine rollout, has partnered with the Pa. Department of Health to help the public identify vaccination clinics or pre-register for a vaccine. While the vaccine rollout in PA is still in phase 1A, consider bookmarking this site for when Pennsylvania moves into the other stages.
  • A federal judge on Friday tossed a Pennsylvania restaurant's proposed class action seeking coverage from National Fire & Marine Insurance Co. for losses due to the coronavirus. Judge William Stickman IV found that the establishments limited to carry-out service had not sustained the "direct, physical loss" necessary to trigger their insurance poliecies. READ MORE 
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 
  • ICYMI: The Small Business Administration announced that the PPP will be open to all lenders on Tuesday, January 19. Community development financial institutions are already accepting applications. LOAN DETAILS/APPLICATIONS 
  • EatThis.com released its "Best BBQ in Each State" list over the weekend. Congratulations to Skeeter's Pit BBQ in Shamokin Dam for representing PA on the list!

January 15
  • Philadelphia today released revised guidance for restaurants as the City prepares to resume indoor dining tomorrow. Items of note include:
    • Language in the Reduce Crowds section: "Limit indoor seating to 25% of the stated lawful occupancy for seated dining. If the lawful occupancy is unknown then the density must not exceed 1 person per 60 square feet in the dining area, including staff."
    • Outdoor catered events with food are permitted with up to 25 people. Without food, it's10 people per 1,000 square feet, up to 2,000 people. 
  • The organizers of 'Just a Taste' would like you to share your stories throughout the Jan. 26 show. If you are interested in sharing how the pandemic has impacted your business and employees or the creative ways you have made it work, please email Kendra Hepler at khepler@prla.org for details. 
  • Senate Democrats today announced the Democratic chairs for the 2021-22 legislative session. READ MORE
  • Last night, President-elect Biden released his "American Rescue Plan," his framework for a $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill. The National Restaurant Association today issued a statement articulating concern that the plan would raise the minimum wage to $15/hour and eliminate the tipped wage since that would raise costs on businesses struggling to survive the pandemic. Vox.com summarizes key elements of the plan. 
  • The "Visa Back to Business Study - 2021 Outlook," a global small business and consumer insight study, found that contactless payments are here to stay. 
  • A recent Restaurant Business survey of operators revealed that only 20.4% of restaurant employers intend to require their staffs to be vaccinated. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association today reported that restaurant sales fell to their lowest level since June, with the overall total restaurant and foodservice sales down $240 billion from expected levels. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: The Small Business Administration announced that the PPP will be open to small lenders today, Friday, January 15, and all lenders on Tuesday, January 19. Community financial institutions are already accepting applications. LOAN DETAILS/APPLICATIONS 

January 14
  • The Small Business Administration announced that the PPP will be open to small lenders tomorrow, Friday, January 15, and all lenders on Tuesday, January 19. Community financial institutions are already accepting applications. LOAN DETAILS/APPLICATIONS 
  • Gov. Wolf and Democratic leaders today urged General Assembly to act quickly to allocate the $145 million that is available for grants for businesses impacted by COVID-19. The transfer initiated by the governor 3 weeks ago requires legislative authorization to appropriate the funding to make grants for businesses. READ MORE 
  • Today, the governor also approved a temporary waiver program that will permit licensed pharmacists in Pa. to order and administer the COVID-19 vaccine when vaccines are available to the public. READ MORE
  • AHLA is reaching out to Administration officials and policymakers at the local, state, and federal level with a letter offering vaccine administration sites in partnership with public health departments. HOTEL ASSISTANCE
  • ICYMI: PEMA professionals are interested in learning if hotels in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia are experiencing an unusual increase in out-of-state bookings for January 16-20. Information collected will be anonymous, shared in aggregate only, and used to anticipate disruptions to business. SURVEY

January 13
  • The U.S. House of Representatives this afternoon voted to impeach President Trump for incitement of insurrection, by a vote of 232-197. He will now face a trial in the Senate. READ MORE
  • PEMA professionals are interested in learning if hotels in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia are experiencing an unusual increase in out-of-state bookings for January 16-20. Information collected will be anonymous, shared in aggregate only, and used to anticipate disruptions to business. SURVEY
  • Airbnb today announced that it would block or cancel DC bookings during the week of the presidential inauguration. Meanwhile, Marriott International said that its hotels in the Washington, D.C. area will remain open leading up to and through the inauguration. READ MORE
  • D.C. restaurant dining rooms are to remain closed through Inauguration Day "in the interest of public health and safety." They were originally scheduled to reopen on Jan. 15 but the moratorium was extended until Jan. 22 after last week's incident at the Capitol. READ MORE
  • Sen. Jake Corman today announced the chairs for each of the 22 Senate standing committees for the 2021-22 session. READ MORE
  • The City of Pittsburgh released additional guidance on its emergency paid sick leave. READ MORE
  • The Small Business Administration will host a webinar on Thursday, Jan. 14 at 3 p.m. to give a preliminary overview of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program. Introductory information, eligibility, tips on preparing to apply, and details on the application will be covered. REGISTER 
  • If you missed today's Industry Update, you can watch it on-demand here.

January 12
  • The City of Philadelphia today announced that indoor dining will be allowed beginning January 16. There will be a cap on the number of diners set at 25 percent of the seating capacity. More details are expected to be released soon. Indoor catered events will still be prohibited.
  • During today's press conference, the Philadelphia Health Commissioner and Deputy Health Commissioner announced that the City has decided to prioritize restaurant workers in category 1B of the City's vaccination plan. 
  • The National Restaurant Association today released its 2021 Restaurant Trends, a 2-page report on operational services and menu items that most helped restaurants survive 2020 and that will likely continue through 2021. The full State of the Industry report will be released on Jan. 26. READ MORE
  • A federal judge today ruled that incumbent Sen. Jim Brewster (D-45th) has won his race against Republican challenger Nicole Ziccarelli. Sen. Brewster will be sworn in when the Senate returns to session tomorrow morning. READ MORE
  • Pa. Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler (R, Lancaster) today ordered a special election to coincide with Pennsylvania's primary election on Tuesday, May 18 to fill the vacancy created by the sudden passing of Rep. Mike Reese. 
  • The Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021 permits businesses to deduct 100% of business meal expenses in 2021 and 2022. The National Law Review summarized the tax provisions of the Act; however, no further information has been released at this time. 

January 11
January 8
  • The U.S. Small Business Association will re-open the next round of PPP on Monday, January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers. Only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP loans on Jan. 11 and Second Draw PPP  loans on Jan. 13. The PPP will open to all participating lenders shortly thereafter. 
  • Today, the Wolf Administration announced an updated vaccination plan for Pennsylvania. In this revised plan, food service workers are listed in the 1C priority group. VACCINE PLAN
  • This afternoon, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney tweeted "Assuming we don't have a spike in COVID-19 cases between now and Jan. 15, we plan to allow limited indoor dining to resume on Jan. 16. We will provide details at next Tuesday's COVID press conference, and guidance will be added to our website at that time." 
    • Indoor dining would be at 25% of normal seating capacity (note: not 25% of maximum occupancy of space)
    • Department of Health is developing ventilation standards that may be required for seating capacity increases. 
    • Restaurants planning on indoor dining should maximize the ventilation of their existing equipment.
    • More info coming on Tuesday, Jan. 12. 
  • Philadelphia is updating its "Certification of Hardship" form, which is currently for residential leases, so businesses can use it with their commercial landlords. 
  • Philadelphia once again has bumped back the implementation of its plastic bag ban to July 1, 2021. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Monday, January 11 is national #WearBlueDay in support of the Blue Campaign's largest initiative to raise awareness of human trafficking and call attention to this crime. Take a photo of you and your team wearing blue and share it on social media with the tag #WearBlueDay to support this important initiative. If you want your team to be trained on recognizing the indicators of human trafficking, take advantage of free human trafficking prevention training through our partner BEST Alliance. 

January 7
  • Following the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol yesterday, Congress reconvened late last night and rejected two attempts by Congressional Republicans to overturn the election results of Arizona and Pennsylvania. Early this morning, Vice President Mike Pence certified the 2020 election. Joe Biden will be sworn in as President on January 20.
  • Late last night, the U.S. Treasury and SBA released their guidance for the next round of PPP. 
  • Join PRLA, in conjunction with the PA Bankers Association, tomorrow at 11 a.m. for a special, free webinar on the next round of PPP. Experts from the PBA will discuss what the recently released PPP guidelines mean and how you can prepare your application. REGISTER
  • The City of Philadelphia released updated outdoor dining guidelines. This version streamlines the original outdoor dining guidelines and the winterization guidelines. Requirements remain largely unchanged, they were simply reorganized to provide clarity and ease of use. 
  • The Pa. Office of Attorney General is still calling for participants for its survey on the impact of delivery apps on the restaurant industry. The survey should take about 5 minutes to complete and will help the AG's Office better understand the dynamic between restaurants and delivery apps. TAKE SURVEY 
  • Nation's Restaurant News is reporting that Washington, D.C. restaurant workers are targeted to receive COVID-19 vaccines starting February 1. READ MORE Here in Pennsylvania, the vaccine roll-out is still in phase 1A (healthcare workers), though the Pa. Department of Health has said that the CDC is expected to release an updated vaccination priority list, which may elevate hospitality employees' priority level, in the next week or so. 
  • Monday, January 11 is national #WearBlueDay in support of the Blue Campaign's largest initiative to raise awareness of human trafficking and call attention to this crime. Take a photo of you and your team wearing blue and share it on social media with the tag #WearBlueDay to support this important initiative. If you want your team to be trained on recognizing the indicators of human trafficking, take advantage of free human trafficking prevention training through our partner BEST Alliance. 

January 6
  • Protesters with Trump flags this afternoon breached the U.S. Capitol and forced evacuations. Protesters roamed the halls, broke into offices, and damaged property within the building. Senators were escorted out of the chamber to a secure location, while most representatives were either evacuated or instructed to shelter-in-place. AP NEWS, PHOTOS
    • The process to count the Electoral College votes has been delayed.
    • Washington, D.C. has a 6 p.m. curfew tonight.
    • National Guard troops are being deployed from D.C., Virginia, and Maryland to support local law enforcement. 
  • The Associated Press today also reported that the Democrats have swept the Senate races in Georgia, giving the Democrats the majority. READ MORE
  • In Pennsylvania, Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) announced the House committee chairs. READ MORE
  • The Barstool Fund, in support of the 30 Day Fund, is awarding grants to small business owners in need of help due to the impacts of COVID. The only requirement for small businesses is that their payroll is still on. MORE INFO
  • The PA Tourism Office has released November's travel indicators. DOWNLOAD
  • If you missed today's Industry Update, you can watch it on-demand here. 

January 5
  • Legislators returned to Harrisburg today to be sworn in for the next two-year term. All elected House members were sworn in; however, fireworks erupted in the Senate as Republicans refused to seat Sen. Jim Brewster due to pending legal challenges by his opponent. READ MORE
  • Today's swearing-in ceremony officially kicks off the 2021-2022 legislative session, which means we can start the process of pushing for PRLA's unfinished and updated COVID priorities. 
  • Now that the limited-time mitigation order has expired, the PLCB has reverted back to the guidance in place prior to December 12. 
  • Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Farley today said that he hopes to have an announcement at the end of the week regarding the status of restarting indoor dining/events. 
  • PRLA, in conjunction with the PA Bankers Association, will be hosting a webinar this Friday at 11 a.m. on preparing for the latest round of PPP. Register today for this complimentary and interactive session. 
  • Have you heard? Celebrity Chef Roy Choi is hosting 'Just a Taste'— a live virtual cooking show with four renowned chefs from across Pennsylvania, to benefit HARP. Just a Taste, presented by Harrisburg University Presents in partnership with Hilton Harrisburg and Dauphin County, takes place on January 26 at 7 p.m. READ MORE
  • January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. PRLA members and their staff are eligible for free training from our partner, Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking (BEST). LEARN MORE

January 4
  • The limited-time mitigation order expired today at 8:00 a.m., which means indoor dining at restaurants may resume but all mitigation in play prior to Dec. 12 is still active. 
    • Indoor dining occupancy of 50% with self-certification or 25% without
    • Meal requirement for onsite alcohol consumption
    • 11 p.m. last call for alcohol
    • Private event capacity determined by the maximum occupancy calculator
    • Masks
    • Social distancing
  • The Philadelphia single-use plastic bag ban took effect on January 1, 2021, but plastic bags used for carryout or delivery is permissible until April 1, 2021. MORE INFO
  • The Pa. Legislature officially kicked off the new session today. House Democrats have announced their committee chairs for the 2021-2022 session. The remaining committee chairs are expected to be announced tomorrow. 
  • Our condolences to the family of Rep. Mike Reese (R-Westmoreland/Somerset), who passed away over the weekend. Rep. Reese had been elected to serve as the Republican Caucus Chairman for the upcoming legislative session. READ MORE
  • Last week, Pa. Commonwealth Court Judge Crompton denied restaurateurs' bid to block the Administration's indoor dining ban. READ MORE This announcement came a few days after a similar ruling was made in federal court. READ MORE
  • The Small Business Administration last week announced it is extending the COVID-19 EIDL application deadline until December 31, 2021. This is for loans only as funds for the forgivable EIDL advance have run out. READ MORE
  • Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Health & Human Services announced the latest dietary guidelines (a process that occurs every five years). For the first time, nutrition recommendations are specified for all age groups. READ MORE 

December 30
  • Today, Gov. Wolf announced that the limited-mitigation order will expire on January 4. Indoor dining at restaurants may resume at 8 a.m. on Jan. 4 but all mitigation in play prior to Dec. 12 is still active. 
    • Indoor dining occupancy of 50% with self-certification or 25% without
    • Meal requirement for onsite alcohol consumption
    • 11 p.m. last call for alcohol
    • Private event capacity determined by the maximum occupancy calculator
    • Masks
    • Social distancing
  • Philly-based mental health startup Airapy is offering a free mental health concierge service to Pennsylvania hospitality operators, their employees, and dependents. Airapy's trained clinicians can help you to find a new therapist or navigate the often-confusing mental health care system. For patients without mental health care coverage, an Airapy concierge can work with them to find an affordable out-of-pocket rate. Inquiries are 100% confidential. To learn more visit their website or email Airapy CEO Rachel Cox at rachel@airapy.io.
  • The PRLA Daily Update will be on hiatus until January 4.

​December 29
  • President Trump signed the $900 billion COVID-19 relief package, which means that funds should begin to be distributed to businesses and individuals in the coming weeks. READ MORE
  • Pennsylvania's COVID-19 Early Warning Monitoring Dashboard Update for Dec. 18 – Dec. 25 showed a seven-day case increase of 46,777, a statewide percent positivity of 15.1% and all 67 counties with substantial transmission status.
  • Philly-based mental health startup Airapy is offering a free mental health concierge service to Pennsylvania hospitality operators, their employees, and dependents. Airapy's trained clinicians can help you to find a new therapist or navigate the often-confusing mental health care system. For patients without mental health care coverage, an Airapy concierge can work with them to find an affordable out-of-pocket rate. Inquiries are 100% confidential. To learn more visit their website or email Airapy CEO Rachel Cox at rachel@airapy.io.
  • Maintaining valid ServSafe certification is critical, especially amid COVID-19. Find an upcoming class with PRLA partner HRFoodSafe at locations across Pennsylvania. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Watch last week's PRLA Industry Update HERE. The next weekly Industry Update webinar will take place on January 6.
  • SMS text messages have a 99% open rate. Are you connecting with your potential customers in their most preferred method of communication? PRLA partner SENTEXT is offering members 3 months of text message marketing service for free. LEARN MORE

December 23
  • Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Labor finally released their final Tip Credit rule, which achieves a top priority of the National Restaurant Association and PRLA. The Rule is scheduled to take effect 60 days after being posted, which means that the Biden Administration may stop the final rule or delay the rule from taking effect. Key components of the rule are as follows:
    • Allows tip pooling to occur between the front and back of the house employees as long as all employees are making minimum wage or more.
    • Clarifies that the 80/20 rule is not hard and fast and that a tip credit can be taken as long as non-tipped duties are done at the same time as tipped duties or within a reasonable time before or after doing tipped duties.
    • Clarifies safeguards regarding tip pools and that management cannot keep any portion of a tip pool. It also clarifies additional penalties as it pertains to tip pooling.
  • PRLA sent a letter to Gov. Wolf, Secretary Levine, and the Legislature informing them of the industry's expectation that we will be allowed to return to normal COVID operations on January 4. 
  • Gov. Wolf today announced a transfer of $145 million in funds from the Workers' Compensation Security Fund to be appropriated by the legislature into grants from businesses adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE
  • Today at 3 p.m., the Commonwealth Court heard the arguments from the restaurants suing Gov. Wolf to remove the ban on indoor dining and force the Department of Health to explain its metrics and standards.
  • On Monday, Uber Eats began sharing more data with its restaurant partners, including insights on how nearby competitors are doing. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Montgomery County’s “Montco Strong 2021 Restaurant Grant Program” will provide $5 million in county economic development funds to local restaurants and foodservice businesses. Eligible applicants may apply for a $10,000 grant beginning at noon on Wed., Dec. 30 and ending at 12 p.m. Wed., Jan. 6, 2021. More information and application available HERE.
  • The PRLA Daily Update will be on hiatus until December 29.  

December 22
  • Congress overwhelmingly passed a COVID-19 Relief Package last evening before breaking for the holidays. It is not expected that any further legislation will be considered until March.
    • The NRA has provided a breakdown of what is included in the new COVID-19 Relief Package.
    • PRLA will review the relief package at our weekly Industry Update webinar tomorrow, Dec. 23 at 11 a.m. REGISTER
  • Philadelphia has announced that while it is planning to end some mitigation efforts on January 4 when the Governor’s order is scheduled to end, they are extending the ban on indoor dining and other mitigation efforts until January 15. READ MORE
  • Montgomery County’s “Montco Strong 2021 Restaurant Grant Program” will provide $5 million in county economic development funds to local restaurants and food service businesses. Eligible applicants may apply for a $10,000 grant beginning at 12 p.m. Wed., Dec. 30 and ending at 12 p.m. Wed., Jan. 6, 2021. More information and application available HERE.
  • The Pa. Department of Human Services is looking for hotels and motels that have rooms available to house Pennsylvanians who need a location to self-isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19. Businesses will be reimbursed for expenses incurred. If your business may be able to assist or for more information, please complete the following survey: http://bit.ly/PAHotelMotelSurvey
  • If you haven't already added your restaurant to CarryOutPA.com, add your listing on this free resource developed by PRLA and Highwater Consulting to let the public know how they can support you this holiday season. *Recently added*: categories for holiday meals and gift cards.
  • Last week, Pennsylvania ProStart held a “Mystery Box Challenge” sponsored by Gordon Food Service and Sandridge Food Corporation. Four high school culinary arts programs were delivered boxes filled with mystery ingredients, which teams used to create two menu items. Entries were judged virtually on presentation, creativity, and appetite appeal. The winner, Greene County CTC, received $500 for their culinary program, and all participating students received $50 courtesy of Sandridge Food Corp.! Visit the PA ProStart Facebook page to view photos from the challenge.
  • Kick-off 2021 by grabbing a cup of coffee with 2021 PRLA Chairman Bill Covaleski. Join Bill and PRLA President & CEO John Longstreet for this Q&A webinar, fueled by Ellis Coffee Co., on Thursday, January 7 at 11:00 a.m. to learn more about Bill and his goals for PRLA in the coming year. REGISTER

December 21
  • Today, Congress unveiled a $900 billion relief package to provide short-term economic relief to the country in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. The American Hotel & Lodging Association and the National Restaurant Association have each released statements on the relief package.
    • PRLA will provide an in-depth review of the relief package at our weekly Industry Update webinar this Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 11 AM. REGISTER
  • AH&LA sent a letter to the National Governor’s Association requesting hotel workers be placed in the 1b distribution category for the COVID-19 vaccine.
  • A group of restaurant and bar owners from Harrisburg to the Delaware Valley filed suit Friday against Gov. Wolf and Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine over the latest round of COVID-19 restrictions levied on the food-service industry. READ MORE
  • North Hills Community Outreach (NHCO) in Allegheny County would like to remind individuals in that area that the NHCO is available to provide assistance to industry workers in need.  More information can be found HERE and individuals can fill out a help form HERE.
  • Are you not yet taking advantage of our Manufacturer’s Rebate Program? You could be receiving quarterly rebate checks on qualifying items that you already purchase such as food items, paper products and cleaning supplies. Enroll before December 31st for Q4 MRP savings.
December 18
  • The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance sent a letter to Gov. Wolf and Secretary Levine requesting specific contacting tracing data to justify the current shutdown in Pennsylvania. 
  • Delaware County is the latest county to announce a small business program for businesses affected by the current additional mitigation. The application opened at 3 p.m. today (December 18) and runs through 2 p.m. December 28. Visit the Delco Strong website for eligibility details and the application.  
  • The Pa. Senate Democrats have outlined a package to help those struggling during COVID. The package would borrow $4 billion, with $300 million dedicated to the hospitality industry. READ MORE 
  • Rep. Todd Polinchock (R, Bucks), in partnership with PRLA, is planning to introduce legislation in the new session to create a grant program for struggling businesses in the hospitality industry. READ MORE
  • Sen. Ryan Aument (R, Lancaster) has released a co-sponsorship memo about a legislative recovery package he plans to introduce for small businesses when the next legislative session starts in January. READ MORE
  • The Pa. Department of Revenue is willing to work with businesses struggling to make their sales tax payments due to the shutdown. For assistance, email RA-RV-BTA-ASMNTINQ@PA.GOV. Additionally, the Department is reminding businesses that due to the decrease in sales in 2020, many businesses will go from a monthly to a quarterly payment in 2021.
  • ICYMI: Rep. Bud Cook is hosting a "Rights for Restaurants Rally" on December 21 at 2 p.m. 

December 17
December 16
  • Erie County is deploying $875,000 in emergency grant funding for qualifying businesses that had to close their operations as a result of Gov. Wolf's Dec. 10 order. Erie County dine-in restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries are eligible to apply. The application opened at 8 a.m. today (December 16) and runs through 11:59 p.m. on December 22. It's a first-come, first-served program. LEARN MORE
  • ICYMI: The Chester County Main Street Business Preservation Program, which will provide $10 million in grants to small businesses and agricultural enterprises impacted by COVID-19, opens tomorrow (December 17) at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. on December 23. LEARN MORE
  • Regional funds for hospitality workers are popping up around the state in response to the Governor's shutdown of indoor dining right before the holiday season. The Pocono Mountains United Way launched a fund yesterday and Support 717 launched earlier this week. In addition, PRLA's HARP is currently raising funds to be able to reopen the application for a third round. 
  • Due to PRLA's outreach, the PLCB unanimously approved extending the deadline to put a license in safekeeping until January 15, 2021. Safekeeping fees continue to not be assessed. 
  • On today's Industry Update webinar, PRLA VP of Government Affairs Melissa Bova outlined the PRLA's legislative priorities for when the Pa. Legislature starts its 2021-22 session in January. 
  • The National Restaurant Association this afternoon reported that progress on a COVID relief package continues moving forward, with a deal being announced in the next day or two. In the meantime, it is incredibly important that you take action today on either the National Restaurant Association or the American Hotel & Lodging Association action alerts to demand your elected official's support a relief package. Remember, this package is just a down-payment to get us through the rest of 2020.
  • The Pa. Office of Attorney General is conducting a survey to assess the impact of delivery apps on restaurants in Pennsylvania. TAKE SURVEY
  • The National Restaurant Association and several third-party delivery companies have collaborated on some policy/operational standards that should be common between restaurants and these companies. PRESS RELEASE
  • The Southwestern PA Restaurant & Tavern Association is holding a "Rights for Restaurants" rally on Monday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

December 15
  • Chester County Commissioners have announced the second round of Main Street funding through the Chester County Main Street Business Preservation Program, which will provide $10 million in grants to small businesses and agricultural enterprises impacted by COVID-19. The application opens at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 17 and closes at 5 p.m. on December 23. LEARN MORE
  • Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau in conjunction with Pocono Mountains United Way today announced a newly established fund to financially help hospitality employees across the 4-county Pocono region who are out of work due to Pennsylvania's extended COVID-19 restrictions. LEARN MORE
  • The Philadelphia Inquirer today published an opinion piece by PRLA President & CEO John Longstreet calling on Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation to stand up for our industry by passing a federal relief package before the year's end. 
  • The Wolf Administration today told us in an email that outdoor igloos are permissible; however, we are still waiting for the DOH to update the FAQ document to reflect that change. 
  • Breweries in PA obtained and published an email the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is sending to restaurants,  breweries, and licensees suspected of not following the Governor's most recent shutdown order. READ MORE 
  • Philadelphia restaurant workers get their own COVID-19 testing site starting in January. READ MORE
  • Please encourage your city's mayor or other elected officials to attend a webinar on Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. that will highlight ways mayors can encourage the public to patronize and support restaurants this holiday season. WEBINAR REGISTRATION
  • As the National Restaurant Association continues to refute claims that dining in restaurants and COVID transmission are linked, it is once again asking for your help by taking a survey to capture data to aid in making scientific-based decisions instead of reflexive actions. TAKE SURVEY
  • With tomorrow's weather forecast, please make sure your outdoor structures are secure.  

December 14
  • Over the weekend, the Wall Street Journal Editorial Board published an opinion piece calling out governors who are shutting down indoor dining despite scant evidence. READ MORE (pdf download)
  • In response to the contract tracing data released by the state of New York that showed more than 74% of case spread occurred in private gatherings, PRLA issued a press release calling on Gov. Wolf to reverse his decision to ban indoor dining. The New York data, which is far more robust than Pennsylvania's, shows restaurants account for only 1.4% of COVID-19 cases while 73.84% of COVID cases were spread at private gatherings. READ MORE
  • Thank you to those of you who completed the PRLA's impact survey last week. PRLA also distributed a press release on the human impact and financial ramifications of Gov. Wolf's indoor dining ban. READ MORE
  • The PLCB updated its licensee guidance to reflect the latest mitigation order. 
  • The Bureau of Liquor Enforcement has updated its warning and citation tracking dashboard to reflect data from this past weekend. 
  • Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed legislation that prohibits restaurant evictions and gives time for restaurants to repay past due rent. These protections apply to three or fewer restaurants with the same name that have fewer than 100 employees per location. READ LEGISLATION
  • As the National Restaurant Association continues to refute claims that dining in restaurants and COVID transmission are linked, it is once again asking for your help by taking a survey to capture data to aid in making scientific-based decisions instead of reflexive actions. TAKE SURVEY
  • COVID-19 relief talks in Congress remain stalled but there is universal agreement that it won't adjourn for the year without passing another round of relief. It is incredibly important that you take action today on either the National Restaurant Association or the American Hotel & Lodging Association action alerts to demand your elected official's support on the bipartisan $908 billion relief package. 

December 11
  • Throughout the pandemic and with increasing frequency, PRLA has been asked about taking legal action against various mitigation orders. PRLA leadership has evaluated the potential for legal action with a focus on results that would be beneficial to the industry and, thus far, has determined that there is not a legal recourse that would bring relief in time to save the industry. Today, PRLA leaders caucused with experts from the National Restaurant Association Restaurant Law Center to review all of the cases filed across the country. While it's clear that our industry needs a temporary restraining order or injunctive relief, experts have determined those outcomes are unlikely in Pennsylvania. This situation is incredibly frustrating but we continue to explore all options.
  • The order takes effect at 12:01 a.m., December 12, 2020. Gov. Wolf Temporary Mitigation Order | Sec. of Health Temporary Mitigation Order | Updated Targeted Mitigation FAQs
  • As a reminder, the Nov. 23 order outlined enforcement mechanisms available against retail establishments and restaurants that carry over to this new order. Pages 8 & 9 specify what those mechanisms are for any restaurant found out of compliance with the order. 
  • Today, PRLA distributed a 5-question survey to determine the impact this new order will have on your operation. Please take 2 minutes to complete the survey if you have not done so already. TAKE SURVEY
  • The Administration also updated its definition of indoor versus outdoor, relating to tents. Indoor businesses operate in a fully or largely enclosed (three-walls or more). Outdoor businesses operate in a completely or largely open-air space (one on at least 2 sides). A tent is allowed outdoors; however, to be regarded as an outdoor space, tents must be open on 2 sides. Enclosed tents are considered indoor spaces. Enclosed structures, included enclosed tents, would limit air circulation and undo the benefits of being outdoors. 
  • COVID-19 relief talks in Congress remain stalled but there is universal agreement that it won't adjourn for the year without passing another round of relief. It is incredibly important that you take action today on either the National Restaurant Association or the American Hotel & Lodging Association action alerts to demand your elected official's support on the bipartisan $908 billion relief package. 

PRLA's Statement of Today's Announcement
This afternoon, Governor Wolf announced a statewide shutdown on all indoor dining and private events, effective at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. This order is devasting to the hospitality industry. Hundreds of businesses are teetering on the brink of financial disaster, and the livelihood of thousands of employees are on the line. The Governor offers us nothing but lip service by acknowledging the hospitality industry's precarious financial situation when our expertise is repeatedly ignored when drafting mitigation orders.

This order will have a considerable impact - hopefully, one of them will be to lower case counts, though there is no data to support that. As more residents stay home due to unemployment, they face the threat of rising cases and the added stress of putting food on the table for their families and keeping a roof over their heads.  As the second-largest economy statewide, the hospitality industry provides thousands of jobs and serves as a pillar of communities throughout the state. The Governor cannot ignore these orders' impact, and Congress needs to act now to pass real relief.

When shutdowns came in March, the federal government created several safety nets for businesses and employees through the Paycheck Protection Program and additional unemployment compensation. Those programs no longer exist this time around, and there is no guarantee Congress will act to extend them soon. Many of our industry’s employees used up their unemployment compensation eligibility from the first shutdown. Restaurants find it increasingly challenging to conduct outdoor dining as temperatures dip and realistically cannot survive on takeout, delivery, and carry out alone.  

The short notice of the shutdown and timing could not be worse as employers will be forced to lay off thousands of more workers as we head into the holiday season. 

— John Longstreet, President & CEO

December 10
  • Gov. Wolf today announced new mitigation banning indoor dining, reducing indoor events/gatherings to no more than 10 people, limiting outdoor events to no more than 50 people, among other orders. Today's order takes effect from 12:01 a.m., December 12, 2020, until 8 a.m., January 4, 2021.
  • During the press conference, the Secretary of Health and Gov. Wolf pointed to studies (with questionable validity) as the source of data justifying these shutdowns. PRLA's partner, the National Restaurant Association, continues to refute claims that dining in restaurants and COVID transmission are linked. We are asking for your help by taking a survey to capture data to aid in making scientific-based decisions instead of reflexive actions. TAKE SURVEY
  • Philadelphia City Council today unanimously passed legislation that would dictate how businesses located in the airport, stadiums, and hotels must recall employees due to COVID. Council also unanimously passed another bill that dictates retaining employees if a hotel is sold. 
  • ICYMI: Both the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association have issued action alerts on the bipartisan $908 billion relief package. Time is of the essence because if this package does not pass now, the next chance for a relief package would be MARCH.

​December 9​
  • Gov. Wolf today announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19. He currently is asymptomatic and is isolating at home while still carrying out his duties. READ MORE
  • If you missed today's Industry Update, you can watch it on-demand here for the discussion on the active rumor mill that was in full force last evening. Erie News Now issued a retraction to an article it published incorrectly detailing new restrictions of the Wolf Administration. 
  • However, during this afternoon's weekly Allegheny County briefing, County Executive Rich Fitzgerald said that the state would be announcing new mitigation tomorrow. Dr. Bogen added that she would not be putting county-specific mitigation in place because it would not do enough to stop/slow the spread and this issue is a regional, state, and national crisis.
  • In response to Monday's press conference, Republican lawmakers urged the Administration to make new mitigation measures with care. House Majority Leader Benninghoff said in a statement "Gov. Wolf, do not cancel Christmas. Do not use your executive order pen to devastate lives and livelihoods. Government mandates will not cure COVID-19 and unilateral shutdowns will not create personal responsibility.” READ MORE
  • As the National Restaurant Association continues to refute claims that dining in restaurants and COVID transmission are linked, it is once again asking for your help by taking a survey to capture data to aid in making scientific-based decisions instead of reflexive actions. TAKE SURVEY
  • DoorDash shares shot up 80% as the company began publicly trading this afternoon. It raised $3.4 billion in its initial Wednesday offering and its market valuation now sits around $62 billion (about 10x that of GrubHub). READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Both the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association have issued action alerts on the bipartisan $908 billion relief package. Time is of the essence because if this package does not pass now, the next chance for a relief package would be MARCH. 

December 8
  • HARP will reopen its grant application for a second round at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9. HARP will accept the first 500 completed and submitted applications in this round. If you know of any frontline Pa. hospitality workers who didn’t already receive a HARP grant, please forward them this information. For eligibility info and to apply, visit www.parelief.org.
  • Philadelphia Councilman Allan Domb penned a letter to Congressional leadership in support of a recovery package as soon as possible, which was signed by the rest of City Council and the Philadelphia Congressional delegation.
  • The CDC amended guidance for travelers to clarify the risk levels associated with different lodging and travel options. For example, staying in "a house or cabin with people not in your household (e.g., vacation rentals)" is in the "Even More Risk" category versus a vacation rental with just members of your immediate household. 
  • Pittsburgh City Council unanimously passed legislation that would require employers that have more than 50 employees in the City to provide an additional 80 hours of paid sick leave to employees if they test positive for COVID or need to quarantine because of COVID. This is in addition to the current paid leave legislation already in effect in Pittsburgh.
  • Nation's Restaurant News is reporting that 10,000 restaurants have closed over the past 3 months across the United States. Since the pandemic started in March, 17% of the total restaurants in the nation (or 110,000 locations) have closed. The longer the stalemate in Congress lasts, the more restaurants are in danger of closing for good. TAKE ACTION  
  • In today's Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney Michael Cibik argued that filing for bankruptcy is a strategic financial option for restaurants. The new Small Business Reorganization Act reduces fees, paperwork, and timeline while providing more asset protection for small business owners. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: Yesterday, the National Restaurant Association released its latest Economic Impact Survey results for the industry. NATIONAL DATA | PENNSYLVANIA DATA
  • The U.S. job market slowed in November and the number of people unemployed long-term is still rising (39.6% have been out of work 27 weeks or longer). READ MORE
  • PRLA is pleased to announce a new partnership with SENTEXT, a text message marketing service. PRLA members can receive 3 months free. LEARN MORE
  • As the National Restaurant Association continues to refute claims that dining in restaurants and COVID transmission are linked, it is once again asking for your help by taking a survey to capture data to aid in making scientific-based decisions instead of reflexive actions. TAKE SURVEY

December 7
  • While the administration didn’t make any mitigation announcements today, Governor Wolf said in a press conference that there could be further mitigation measures in the future. READ MORE
  • The PA Department of Health announced Friday that it has aligned its quarantine guidance for people exposed to COVID-19 with the new guidance from the CDC, decreasing to a recommended 10-day quarantine without testing or a seven-day quarantine with a negative test on or after day-five of quarantine. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association has released new data from its latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey (December 2020), showing the continued impact of the crisis on restaurants both within Pennsylvania and nationwide. 
  • NRA sent a letter to Congress with the results of the latest survey, detailing the unique attention the restaurant industry needs to survive the pandemic.
    • You can add your voice by sending an email to your officials with one click! | ACT NOW
  • The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board wrote an opinion piece regarding Governor Wolf’s veto of HB 1737 (Gleim—R, Cumberland) which would have provided liability protection to businesses during the COVID pandemic. READ (subscription required)
  • The NRA put together a video sharing helpful tips on the PPP and loan forgiveness.
  • HARP will reopen its grant application for a second round at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9. HARP will accept the first 500 completed and submitted applications in this round. If you know of any frontline Pa. hospitality workers who didn’t already receive a HARP grant, please forward them this information. For eligibility info and to apply, visit www.parelief.org.

​December 4, 2020
  • Pennsylvania reported 11,763 new coronavirus infections on Friday, breaking a record for the second day in a row. | READ MORE
  • Moderates’ surprise $908 billion stimulus proposal appears to have jump-started long-stalled negotiations. | READ MORE via Politico
  • The PLCB has provided a summary of Act 125 and Act 118. | LINK
  • National Restaurant Association's Sean Kennedy shares his views on what the first year of the new administration could look like for the restaurant industry. With losses in excess of $215 billion through October, the industry remains in a holding pattern. “It's completely frustrating and unacceptable that Congress hasn't done anything substantive for restaurant businesses since passing the CARES Act in March." | READ MORE
  • The Small Business Administration this week revealed which Pennsylvania businesses and groups received loans of under $150,000, provided through the federal Paycheck Protection Program. View Pennsylvania's data HERE. | READ MORE
  • The PA Tourism Office has shared October Travel Indicators which gives a snapshot of the economic state of our industry. | LINK
  • We’re pleased to announce that HARP will reopen its grant application for a second round at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9. HARP will accept the first 500 completed and submitted applications in this round. If you know of any frontline Pa. hospitality workers who didn’t already receive a HARP grant, please forward them this information. | INFO
  • Increase sales with online ordering, takeout, and delivery by using Toast’s restaurant recovery playbook. It’s full of restaurant stories, tools and advice to help you navigate the colder months and grow your business. | READ MORE​

December 3
  • Pittsburgh City Council is expected to pass a paid leave bill during its next session on Tuesday, Dec. 8. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed legislation that would allow for the City's current sidewalk café and street closure expansion due to COVID-19 to be extended until 12/31/2021.
  • Philadelphia City Council passed one of PRLA's local priorities, Bill #200574 sponsored by Councilman Bobby Henon, which would provide eviction protection to restaurants with less than 3 locations and less than 100 employees per location during the COVID-19 crisis. Mayor Kenney is expected to sign this legislation. 
  • Philadelphia Councilman Allan Domb introduced a resolution that would allow for hearings to determine the impact restaurant closures have had on businesses in the City, as well as the impact on the City's budget in the coming months and years. 
  • Licensee Waiver Follow-up: The PLCB recently sent a message stating that licensees who renew their license before the 2021 waivers are in place will get a refund but it may take weeks or months for it to process. Further, if you wait for the waivers to be in place, you may be assessed a late fee BUT you will only be assessed a late fee if you renew your license after it expires. If the waivers are not in place by January 1, 2021, the PLCB is expected to extend the deadline for licenses that expire that month. PRLA continues to advise licensees not to renew their license for 2021 until the waiver process is in place. 
  • AHLA has initiated an Action Alert for the new $908 billion stimulus package being floated in Congress. 
  • Gov. Wolf today sent a letter urging Congress to extend federal programs for unemployed workers. READ MORE
  • Due to rising case counts (PA topped 11,000 today) and hospitalizations, the Pennsylvania State Capitol will be closing to the public. The closure takes effect on Monday, Dec. 7. READ MORE
  • The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits dipped slightly last week due to the holiday but remains high, indicating that many employers are still slashing jobs. READ MORE
  • Applebee's founder Bill Palmer has died. READ MORE​

​December 2
  • Congress is showing signs of COVID-19 relief action. Congressional leaders appear to be coalescing around the $908 billion stimulus package, which includes a second round of PPP for restaurants that have had a 35% reduction in gross revenue, addresses tax deductibility issues with PPP expenses, and contains liability protection. NRA released a statement in response to the proposal.  
  • The U.S. Department of Labor sent the tip credit final rule to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs for clearance on Thanksgiving. The final rule is expected shortly with an effective date in place before the Trump Administration leaves office. The National Restaurant Association submitted comments in support of the proposed rule nearly a year ago. 
  • Upserve published four best practices the Thomas Keller Group is using to prepare for 2021 so it survives and thrives beyond and in spite of the pandemic. READ MORE
  • The Chicago Tribune featured Rick Bayless' Frontera group on its reluctant pivot to carry out, and the surprising revelation Bayless made in the process. READ MORE
  • Eventbrite is highlighting some of the most novel and noteworthy event reopening updates (and rollbacks) throughout the country in its bi-weekly Events Industry Report. 
  • The U.S. Transportation Department issued a final rule Wednesday that states only dogs can be considered service animals on airplanes. READ MORE
  • Missed today's Industry Update webinar? Watch it on-demand here.

December 1
  • Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney today announced new measures aimed at helping Philadelphia businesses weather the pandemic by giving them breaks or delays on paying city taxes and fees. 
    • Restaurants calculating their use & occupancy tax will be permitted to exclude the square footage of their businesses not open due to the ban on indoor dining. 
    • Businesses can revise their income estimates for the year, potentially lowering their expected tax payment installments.
    • Businesses using city trash services can delay their first of two semiannual $250 payments, which were coming due soon, until June.
    • The city is creating a new payment plan agreement plan for businesses struggling to pay their taxes this year. It will only be available to businesses that were not previously delinquent on city taxes. 
    • The onus is on the business to reach out to the City's Department of Revenue to enroll/take advantage of these programs. 
  • There is still time to participate in #GivingTuesday. On this global day of giving, we're asking for your help spreading the word about HARP. We've assembled a toolkit for you to use in your business to encourage your customers to give locally to hospitality employees impacted by the pandemic.  
  • Celebrity Chef David Chang became the first celebrity to win the top prize in "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" Chang is donating his entire $1 million prize to restaurant workers impacted by the pandemic through the Southern Smoke Foundation. READ MORE
  • Bipartisan leaders offer a $908 billion stimulus package that offers more forgivable loans, but no direct aid to restaurants. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia hunger-relief group Philabundance lost nearly $1 million in a cyberattack. Unfortunately, the pandemic has brought a rise in cyberattacks across the globe — and the attacks are getting more sophisticated. MORE INFO

November 30
  • Gov. Wolf today vetoed HB 1737 (Gleim-R, Cumberland), which would have provided broad liability protection to businesses. VETO MESSAGE | PA CHAMBER STATEMENT
  • Gov. Wolf today signed into law HB 1617 (Staats-R, Bucks), which was one of PRLA's pre-COVID legislative priorities. This bill would allow the holders of a Hotel license issued before 1949 with a room exemption to convert to a Restaurant license for a $30,000 fee. 
  • Delaware County announced additional mitigation requirements that are in effect until January 2, 2021. The following items are of note:
    • Individuals in bars, restaurants, and other retail food establishments must wear masks except when actually eating or drinking.
    • Bars, restaurants, and other retail food establishments must limit the number of individuals at a table to 4. Tables intended to seat 3 or less may not seat more than the number of individuals for which it's intended.
    • Gathers of more than 10 people indoors are prohibited in Delaware County.
    • READ ORDER
  • #GivingTuesday is tomorrow. On this global day of giving, we're asking for your help spreading the word about HARP. We've assembled a toolkit for you to use in your business to encourage your customers to give locally to hospitality employees impacted by the pandemic. 
  • Today is the last day to take the National Restaurant Association's latest economic impact survey. TAKE SURVEY
  • Restaurants are filing lawsuits to get COVID-19 bans overturned — are the lawsuits having an impact? READ MORE​

November 25
  • If you missed today's Industry Update, you can watch it on-demand here. A few reminders from today's discussion:
    • Last call for in-person consumption of alcohol on Wednesday, Nov. 25 is 5 p.m., with the alcohol cleared by 6 p.m. BYOB is not permitted after 5 p.m. Service may resume at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26.
    • Take out beer and cocktails to go, as well as wine to go for WEP holders, remains unaffected by yesterday’s order.
    • The limits on gatherings for indoor and outdoor events do not impact a restaurant's general operating capacity. Your general operating capacity is still 50% (with self-certification) or 25% (no self-certification). 
    • The gathering limits take effect at 12:01 a.m., Friday, Nov. 27
  • Philadelphia’s Law & Government Committee voted Bill #200557 out of committee. The bill dictates in what order laid-off employees can be hired back if they were laid off due to COVID, in what manner they can be hired back, and what businesses need to do if they don’t hire back a laid-off employee. The bill impacts hotels, stadiums, and businesses located in the airport. It does NOT impact restaurants not located in the previously mentioned locations.
  • The National Restaurant Association has kicked off a new holiday ad and social campaign, "Let Restaurants do the Cooking." The ad will run on cable this week. WATCH
  • As a reminder, you can still add your restaurant to CarryoutPA.com, our searchable database of restaurants offering take-out, curbside, and delivery. New categories include cocktails-to-go, family-style, and holiday meals so be sure to update your existing listing.
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. This information is crucial for crafting our talking points and responses with the media and elected officials. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY
  • #GivingTuesday is next week. On this global day of giving, we're asking for your help spreading the word about HARP. We've assembled a toolkit for you to use in your business to encourage your customers to give locally to hospitality employees impacted by the pandemic. 
  • The PRLA office will be closed Thursday & Friday in observance of the holiday. The Daily Update will return on Monday, Nov. 30. Happy Thanksgiving!

​November 24
  • Gov. Tom Wolf has until November 30 to sign or veto HB 1737, which would give businesses liability protection. PRLA joined a coalition of organizations representing a broad range of industries to send a letter to the Governor and urge him to sign HB 1737 or allow it to become law. READ LETTER | PA CHAMBER PRESS RELEASE
  • Points of clarification from yesterday's order:
    • Last call for in-person consumption of alcohol on Wednesday, Nov. 25 is 5 p.m., with the alcohol cleared by 6 p.m. BYOB is not permitted after 5 p.m. Service may resume at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 26.
    • Take out beer and cocktails to go, as well as wine to go for WEP holders, remains unaffected by yesterday’s order.
    • The limits on gatherings for indoor and outdoor events do not impact a restaurant's general operating capacity. Your general operating capacity is still 50% (with self-certification) or 25% (no self-certification). 
    • The gathering limits take effect at 12:01 a.m., Friday, Nov. 27
  • The National Restaurant Association has kicked off a new holiday ad and social campaign, "Let Restaurants do the Cooking." The ad will run on cable this week. WATCH
  • As a reminder, you can still add your restaurant to CarryoutPA.com, our searchable database of restaurants offering take-out, curbside, and delivery. 
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. This information is crucial for crafting our talking points and responses with the media and elected officials. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY
  • We're just one week away from #GivingTuesday. On this global day of giving, we're asking for your support locally. By donating to HARP, you will help provide financial relief for hospitality industry employees in PA who have been severely impacted due to the COVID-19 crisis. Donate online or text HARP to 44321. 

November 23
  • The Wolf Administration today issued new targeted mitigation measures to help curtail the spread of COVID-19. The following measures impact our industry:
    • A curfew on alcohol sales from 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25 until 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26 for all retail food facilities, including restaurants, bars, and private catered events.
      • This order applies to BYOB establishments.
      • This order does not apply to take-out beer or cocktails to-go.
    • Reducing gathering limits indoors and outdoors until further notice
      • Takes effect on Friday, Nov. 27
      • The matrix has been updated to reflect the new capacity percentages.
    • PRESS RELEASE | PRLA'S STATEMENT
  • Today, Mayor Bill Peduto's administration introduced legislation to the Pittsburgh City Council that would mandate businesses with 50 or more employees provide up to 112 hours of COVID-related paid leave. PRESS RELEASE
  • PRLA is partnering with the National Restaurant Association to gather critical data on the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry. This information is crucial for crafting our talking points and responses with the media and elected officials. Please take the time to complete the latest COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey before November 30. TAKE SURVEY
  • The Treasury/IRS issued updated guidance on November 18 clarifying the deductibility of expenses where a business received a PPP loan. Importantly, it states that "if a business reasonably believes that a PPP loan will be forgiven in the future, expenses related to the loan are not deductible, whether the business has filed for forgiveness or not." The National Restaurant Association is advocating for the IRS to reverse this position and supporting bipartisan, bicameral legislation in Congress. 

November 20
  • Philadelphia's "Safer at Home" mitigation takes effect at 5 p.m. today and goes until at least January 1, 2021. FULL ANNOUNCEMENT | OFFICIAL ORDER
  • A group of restaurant owners has filed a lawsuit against the City of Philadelphia arguing that the "Safer at Home" restrictions are in violation of their constitutional rights. READ MORE
  • Late yesterday, the Senate added liability protection for businesses to HB 1737 (Gleim-R, Cumberland), which passed by a vote of 29-20. The House concurred on the Senate amendments by a vote of 104-98. The bill now goes to the Governor's desk, where it remains to be seen whether he signs or vetoes the measure. READ MORE
  • The Senate and House passed HB 1617 (Staats-R, Bucks), a top PRLA priority bill pre-COVID, which would allow the holder of a Hotel (H) license established before 1949 and exempted from the room requirement to convert the H license into an R license for a $30,000 fee. The bill now heads to the Governor's desk, where it is expected to be signed.
  • Also heading to the Governor's desk is HB 777 (Klunk-R, York), which would allow Club licensees to use proceeds for operating expenses for up to one year, and passed in the House.
  • Senate Democrats held their leadership elections yesterday, with the following results: 
    • Minority Leader: Sen. Jay Costa Jr. (Allegheny)
    • Minority Whip: Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams (Philadelphia)
    • Minority Appropriations Committee Chair: Sen. Vincent Hughes (Philadelphia)
    • Minority Chair: Sen. Wayne D. Fontana (Allegheny)
    • Minority Secretary: Sen. Maria Collett (Montgomery)
    • Minority Policy Committee Chair: Sen. Katie Muth (Chester)
  • Should the Pa. House and Senate wrap up the state budget and other accompanying bills today (which they appear to be on track to do), they will not return to session until January. 
  • Congressman Dwight Evans sent a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer requesting them to move swiftly to pass legislation that would provide targeted relief funding for unemployment insurance, rental and mortgage assistance, and support for small businesses. 
  • ICYMI: 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 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 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.
  • 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:
    • 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
​
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-certificat