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: September 23 at 5:03 p.m.
​​September 21
  • The Senate did not vote on HB 2513 due to concerns by the Republican caucus that the bill did not go far enough to reopen the restaurant industry. HB 2513 in its current form has the support of a number of Democrats and PRLA is working to address the concerns of the Republicans. Stay tuned for an “emergency update” tomorrow morning if we need you to do additional outreach. 
  • Today, all restaurants (except those in Philadelphia) can go to 50% occupancy as long as they self-certify by Oct. 5. Also taking effect today is the 11 p.m. last call for alcohol, with it cleared by midnight. Food sales may continue after 11 p.m.
  • PRLA will be reviewing in detail the self-certification document on Wednesday's Industry Update. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Allegheny County announced that it will allow restaurants to self-certify with the state to go to 50% capacity. However, other restrictions, such as the 11 p.m. hard stop for indoor dining and the ban on tobacco use, will continue.  
  • The National Restaurant Association announced that restaurant employment recovery is in danger of stalling. The restaurant industry added just 133,600 jobs in August, and staffing levels remain nearly 2.5 million jobs below the pre-coronavirus peak. READ MORE
  • AHLA released the results of its Front Desk Feedback survey, which found that 74% of hotels will lay off more employees without further aid. FULL RESULTS
  • Gov. Wolf vetoed the high school sports attendance bill, setting up possible override vote in General Assembly. READ MORE

September 18
  • PRLA released our statement on the Governor's September 21 order. 
  • This order does not restore the industry to the standards that were in place prior to July 15, which is why PRLA has issued an Action Alert on HB 2513. The Senate is expected to vote on this bill as early as Monday, Sept. 21. Your outreach this weekend to all state senators will be critical to that vote. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
  • Allegheny County announced that it will allow restaurants to self-certify with the state to go to 50% capacity. However, other restrictions, such as the 11 pm hard stop for indoor dining and the ban on tobacco use, will continue.  
  • On Monday, Sept. 21, all restaurants (except in Philadelphia) can go to 50 percent occupancy as long as they self-certify by Oct. 5. We suggest you wait to self-certify until we have an opportunity to review the self-certification document. Also taking effect on Monday is 11 p.m. last call (alcohol cleared by midnight) regardless of your occupancy. Food sales may continue past 11 p.m.
  • Meanwhile in Texas, Gov. Abbott yesterday announced that restaurants in most parts of the state may return to 75% occupancy on Monday.  READ MORE 
  • We know that you are increasingly facing challenges with employee recruitment and retention, so we’re working together with our partners to provide you with more resources to help overcome some of these obstacles. Through our strategic alliance with the National Restaurant Association and UnitedHealth Group we are able to offer health and wellness solutions to your employees. LEARN MORE 
September 17
  • Gov. Wolf today issued the order that would allow restaurants to return to 50% capacity if they self-certify. Other key components of the order, which takes effect on September 21, include:
    • Last call will now be 11 p.m. with alcohol cleared by midnight.
    • The meal requirement and bar seating ban remain in place.
    • Private events remain unchanged (25 indoor/250 outdoor).
  • This order does not restore the industry to the standards that were in place prior to July 15, which is why PRLA has issued an Action Alert on HB 2513. The Senate is expected to vote on this bill as early as Monday, Sept. 21. Your outreach to all state senators will be critical to that vote. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
  • The House Commerce Committee today unanimously voted out HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery), which creates a $250 million grant program for restaurants impacted by COVID and permits training as a permissible use of grant monies. 
  • The House Commerce Committee also voted HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette) out of committee after "gutting" to remove events (since we successfully rolled this language into HB 2513) and amending it with sports facilities and performance venues. It passed by a vote of 15-9.
  • Gov. Wolf today called on the General Assembly to provide additional funding for the COVID-19 Hazard Pay Program to support front-line workers risking their health to continue working in life-sustaining industries. No word yet on whether restaurant or hotel workers, deemed essential during the shutdown, will now be eligible for this program.
  • Sens. Scott Martin (R, Lancaster) and Pat Stefano are drafting legislation that would provide $500 million in grants to the hospitality and tourism industry using CARES Act money. READ MORE
  • PENNDOT announced yesterday that it has resumed processing requests for REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards. The federal Department of Homeland Security had extended the deadline for enforcing the use of the card to get through airport security or to enter federal buildings by one year, until Oct. 1, 2021. READ MORE
  • With the release of hotel-specific guidance by the CDC, AHLA has updated its Safe Stay infographic, “Housekeeping Frequency During a Safe Stay.”

September 16
  • In today's press conference, Gov. Wolf announced that the Attorney General is filing a request for a stay on yesterday's Federal ruling.   
  • This morning's Industry Update reviewed the recent court ruling and what it means for you and your business. Watch the recording here.
  • Also discussed extensively during today's webinar was the status of HB 2513, and the actions you can take to tell Pa. state senators how important this legislation is to your business. Resources such as a bill summary, talking points, and Senate contact information can be found here.
  • The House Commerce Committee is scheduled to consider two of PRLA’s priority bills tomorrow: 
    • HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery): Creates a $250 million grant program from restaurants impacted by COVID. 
    • HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette): Allows events to operate at 50 percent capacity. (This bill has been incorporated into HB 2513 in the Senate this week, but the Committee is moving it through the process in case we need it in the future.) 
  • Last evening, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced that the House would stay in session until it could deliver a COVID-19 rescue pact. READ MORE
  • The Big Ten today reversed course and announced that fall football would be played after all. READ MORE

September 15
  • Today, Gov. Wolf responded to yesterday's court ruling that aspects of Gov. Wolf's COVID-19 mitigation strategies were unconstitutional, including the temporary business shut down and the limits on individuals congregating. WOLF'S STATEMENT
  • Tomorrow's Industry Update webinar will cover the ruling, the response, and what it means to you. Join us at 11 a.m. REGISTER
  • The National Restaurant Association released findings from its latest economic impact survey. The findings are stark...roughly 100,000 restaurants have closed, three million jobs still lost, and 40% of operators say they are likely to close if there isn’t federal support in the coming months. NATIONAL RESULTS  |  PA RESULTS
  • Congress is scheduled to leave Washington at the end of the month and has stalled on passing an additional relief package. The National Restaurant Association sent a letter to Congressional leaders and is urging you to take action to tell your lawmakers that they need to take action immediately to help the restaurant industry. 
  • Data indicates consumer movement to support Black-owned businesses has boosted traffic and sales. READ MORE 
  • AMEX is offering eligible small businesses free "Open for Business" kits. Order your free kit here. Learn more about AMEX's Shop Small initiative here.
September 14
  • A federal judge today ruled that aspects of Gov. Wolf's COVID-19 mitigation strategies were unconstitutional, including the temporary business shut down and the limits on individuals congregating. The Wolf Administration announced that it would be seeking a stay of the decision and filing an appeal. READ MORE 
  • The Pa. Department of Community & Economic Development updated the FAQ document regarding the September 8 order that takes effect next week. 
  • Philadelphia city officials today announced that its COVID-19 press conferences will only be held on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. moving forward. READ MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association has reported that the restaurant industry is on pace to lose $240 billion in sales this year. Congress is scheduled to leave Washington at the end of the month and has stalled on passing an additional relief package. The Association is urging you to take action to tell your lawmakers that they need to take action immediately to help the restaurant industry. 
  • Front Desk Feedback is AHLA's member polling series, created to provide an industry snapshot on how the latest economic and social trends are affecting the management of hotels. TAKE SURVEY
  • Pa. sees uptick in coronavirus percent positivity, lists 17 counties as ones to watch, many of which are home to colleges. READ MORE​
September 11
  • Philadelphia City Council passed Bill #200303, sponsored by Councilwoman Brooks, by a vote of 16-1. The bill would provide for Emergency Paid Sick Leave to workers not currently covered by the Families First Coronavirus Protection Act (FFCPA). PRLA worked closely with Councilwoman Brooks and other members of Council to amend this legislation to ensure it did not include those already covered by FFCPA and concludes when FFCPA does. 
  • The federal $300 unemployment supplement has already come to an end. The federal government announced that funds ran out on Sept. 5. Pennsylvanians collecting unemployment will receive a bulk payment up to that date, but will not receive the supplement moving forward. READ MORE
  • The House Commerce Committee is scheduled to consider two of PRLA’s priority bills on Thursday, September 17: 
    • HB 2516 (Stephens—R, Montgomery): Creates a $250 million grant program from restaurants impacted by COVID. 
    • HB 2832 (Dowling—R, Fayette): Allows events to operate at 50 percent capacity. (This bill has been incorporated into HB 2513 in the Senate this week, but the Committee is moving it through the process in case we need it in the future.) 
  • Yesterday, the CDC released a study on a linkage between COVID-19 and restaurants. The National Restaurant Association issued a statement today in response to the that study.
  • As we reported yesterday, the Senate GOP's relief proposal didn't not get enough votes to proceed. Sean Kennedy, EVP of Government Affairs for the National Restaurant Association, breaks down what that means to you.
  • #NeverForget
September 10
  • Philadelphia today announced that restaurants will not increase to 50 percent capacity on Sept. 21. If counts stay low, the City will consider an increase to 50 percent in October. The city also said it will increase the limit for outdoor gatherings to 150 beginning Monday, Sept. 14. Until then, the limit on indoor gatherings remains at 25. READ MORE
  • Today, the Governor called for legislative action to support small businesses by proposing $100 million in forgivable loans and grants for the hospitality, leisure and service industries, including restaurants and bars, salons, and barber shops. READ MORE
  • Meanwhile, PRLA-endorsed HB 2615 (Stephens-R, Montgomery), which creates a $250 million grant program for restaurants using CARES Act money, has been referred to the Commerce Committee and awaits action.
  • Federally, 52 Senate Republicans voted in support of proceeding to the COVID relief legislation introduced by the Senate GOP earlier this week. All Senate Democrats opposed. Having failed to reach the 60 vote threshold, the bill is effectively dead. The National Restaurant Association released a statement urging bipartisan/bicameral solutions to provide relief to the restaurant industry.
  • ServSafe and the National Restaurant Association have added a free, on-demand course covering conflict de-escalation techniques. LEARN MORE
  • Courts begin to take action on business interruption claims as more lawsuits are filed. The high profile cases haven't seen their day in court yet but some of the smaller suits are moving. READ MORE
  • The CDC today released a study on a linkage between COVID-19 and restaurants. The summary line will get likely get a lot of media play: "Adults with positive SARS-CoV-2 test results were approximately twice as likely to have reported dining at a restaurant than were those with negative SARS-CoV-2 test results." Ben Chapman, a food safety risk expert from NC State, posted a Twitter thread highlighting several areas where the report lacked essential information. 
  • A New York federal court judge just struck down critical portions of the Labor Department’s new joint employer rule that went into effect a few months ago. READ MORE

September 9
  • If you missed today's Industry Update webinar, you can watch the recording here. 
  • HB 2513 received second consideration and was voted out of the Senate Appropriations Committee today by a vote of 20-4. Vote Summary
    • Yes votes: Sens. Schwank (D), Blake (D), Collett (D), Iovino (D), Santarsiero (D), Browne (R), Yaw (R), Corman (R), Scarnati (R), Argall (R), Killion (R), Langerholc (R), Laughlin (R), Martin (R), Mensch (R), Phillips Hill (R), Pittman (R), Scavello (R), Stefano (R), Vogel (R)
    • No votes: Sens. Art Haywood (D), Jay Costa (D), Vincent Hughes (D), and Sharif Street (D). 
    • HB 2513 will be up for final passage on September 21. 
  • The Senate Community Education & Recreational Development Committee unanimously reported out HB 777 (Klunk—R, York), which would allow club licensees to use additional proceeds for operating expenses up to one year after the Emergency Declaration is ended. 
  • With Congress is back in session and the Senate just introduced their version of the next phase of coronavirus relief legislation, U.S. Travel and the National Restaurant Association have issued action alerts. 
  • AHLA released its 2019 tax study. The study illustrates the total tax rate broken down into the various tax categories, such as state, multi-county, county, city, sub-city, sales, and additional flat fees. 
  • With 1 in 4 Americans collecting unemployment compensation in 2020, the IRS is reminding anyone who received UC in 2020 that it is taxable income. MORE INFORMATION
  • Gov. Cuomo announced that New York City restaurants may resume indoor dining at 25% occupancy on September 30. READ MORE
  • ICYMI: The City of Philadelphia has a new payment plan to support businesses that were in tax compliance before the pandemic struck. MORE INFORMATION

September 8
  • This morning, Gov. Wolf announced that restaurants may return to 50% capacity on September 21, but the restaurant must self-certify by Oct. 5 to do so. Today's order also imposed a 10 p.m. curfew for alcohol sales and kept the ban on bar service, meal requirement for alcohol purchases, and 25-person cap on private events intact. PRESS RELEASE
  • The Pa. Department of Community & Economic Development issued an FAQ document later in the day due to the volume of questions related to the self-certification requirement. Please note that the self-certification website by DCED will not be available until September 21. FAQ DOCUMENT
  • PRLA issued a statement in response to the new order, saying it did not go far enough to restore industry standards prior to July 15. 
  • The Pa. Senate Law & Justice Committee today unanimously moved out of committee HB 2513, which would restore restaurants to 50%, resume bar service, eliminate the meal requirement, and allow private events at 50% capacity. The bill now moves to the Senate floor for consideration. PRLA thanks the entire committee and especially Senators Stefano and Brewster for offering the amendments that would restore our industry to the standards that were in place before the July 15 mitigation order.  
  • Indoor dining began today in Philadelphia. Here's what you need to know.
  • As negotiations stall on a broad bipartisan COVID package in Congress, Senate Republicans are introducing targeted legislation that – while short of what either side prefers – would provide needed relief. Read the summary of the legislation provided to us by Republican Leadership.
  • PRLA's weekly Industry Update webinar will take place tomorrow at 11 a.m. REGISTER
  • The archive recording of last week's Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing is now available.

September 4
  • The Pa. Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing today, September 4, at 1 p.m. on the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. Several representatives from the industry are scheduled to testify. You can watch the livestream of the hearing here. We'll publish the archive in next week's update.
  • The Senate Law and Justice Committee will be meeting on Tuesday, September 8 to move HB 2513 (Everett—R, Lycoming). The bill will be amended with language that allows restaurants, hotels, clubs, distilleries, wineries, and breweries to open at a minimum of 50 percent occupancy with social distancing/barriers in place as permitted by the CDC and Department of Health. Identical language is also included to have the same provisions apply to “event venues.”
  • Trip Advisor has launched two free products to help restaurants and hotels navigate COVID-19.
    • Travel Safe is a tool for businesses to update their listings on the site to include new health and safety measures it is taking to protect employees and guests. LEARN MORE
    • Create a free Contactless Menu for your restaurant in 3 easy steps. LEARN MORE
  • The Daily Update will be back on Tuesday, September 8. Have a safe and successful Labor Day weekend. 

September 3
  • The Pa. Senate Democratic Policy Committee will hold a hearing tomorrow, September 4, at 1 p.m. on the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. Several representatives from the industry are scheduled to testify. You can watch the livestream of the hearing here. 
  • September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Our partners at UnitedHealth Group have numerous resources available to you or your team. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is staffed by certified professionals. Getting help is not a sign of weakness, but a show of strength.
  • The following bills that support PRLA's priorities were filed this week:
    • SB 1299 – Removing the Food Requirement and Ban on Bar Service
    • SB 1300 – Expanding Outdoor Dining to Non-Contiguous Areas
    • SB 1301 – License Renewal Fee Waiver
    • SB 1302 – Removing the 25% Occupancy Requirement
  • President Trump's payroll tax deferral began yesterday. Trump's executive order offers the possibility for workers to temporarily collect more money in their paychecks. But the money must be paid back later, and it's the employer's choice whether to opt in. READ MORE
  • AHLA released an enhanced version of COVID-19 Precautions for Hotels, a hotel-specific online training course designed specifically for cleaning and safety during the pandemic. The training now includes a brand-new de-escalation module on how to reduce tensions and promote a safe environment while maintaining the spirit of hospitality throughout all interactions.
  • Southern Smoke is a crisis relief organization for people in the food and beverage industry. It is still accepting applications but does prioritize medical emergencies first and foremost. LEARN MORE​

September 2
  • The Small Business Administration is restricting PPP loan forgiveness for rent paid to a “related party,” according to guidance issued on August 24. In summary:
    • An eligible small business that accepted a PPP loan, and has a business owner that also maintains ownership in the property of the small business, will not be allowed forgiveness for the total rent paid to the owner-landlord. In these cases, the SBA plans to restrict loan forgiveness for rent limited to the amount of “mortgage interest owed” on the property during the Covered Period – not the full monthly rent payment as designed by Congress or reflected in the many SBA/Treasury rules issued since April 2020.
    • If this issue impacts you, please send a statement to Aaron Frazier, Director of Healthcare and Tax Policy, at aafrazier@restaurant.org.
  • An attempt to override Gov. Wolf's veto of HR 836, which would have ended the governor's disaster declaration, failed by a vote of 118 to 84. The veto stands.
  • The PLCB today updated two advisory notices:
    • Advisory Notice #25: eliminates the prohibition of the use of the word “wine” for products sold in distributors. It does not change the prohibition on distributors selling actual wine.
    • Advisory Notice #27: allows license renewals that occur prior to December 1 to continue to operate without renewing the license.
  • The Philadelphia Department of Public Health released this video reviewing its specific guidelines for resuming indoor dining. Additionally, PRLA hosted city officials on a Q & A webinar this afternoon. If you were unable to join us live, here is the recording. 
  • The National Restaurant Association has launched its national Restaurant Revival campaign with a new :30 second commercial and a :60 second extended cut, which will run on network and cable streams through September. This campaign ties into the ServSafe Dining Commitment, which provides best practices and training programs to welcome guests back safely.

September 1
  • Yesterday, Gov. Wolf signed a second renewal of his 90-day disaster declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic. PRESS RELEASE
  • On August 28, the IRS released its first notice regarding implementation of the President’s executive order on payroll tax deferral.
    • The notice makes clear that if the employer opts to defer payroll taxes, the employer is the affected taxpayer, not the employee. But again, based on our read and the analysis of others, it appears that this action is voluntary for the employer.
    • The notice makes no mention of nor seems to contemplate the employee making the election to defer.
    • Therefore, this would appear to be a decision left to the employer. 
  • AHLA yesterday released an analysis on the economic and human struggle of the hotel industry six months into the COVID-19 pandemic. DOWNLOAD REPORT Key findings include:
    • 4 out of 10 hotel employees are still not working. 
    • Almost two-thirds (65%) of hotels remain at or below 50 percent occupancy, which is below the threshold at which most hotels can break-even and pay debt. 
    • Consumer travel remains at all-time low, with only 33 percent of Americans reporting they have traveled overnight for leisure or vacation since March and just 38 percent saying they are likely to travel by the end of the year. 
    • Urban hotels are suffering the most and facing collapse with cripplingly low occupancies of 38 percent, significantly below the national average. 
    • COVID-19 has left hotels in major cities across the country struggling to stay in business, resulting in massive job loss and dramatically reducing state and local tax revenue for 2020 and beyond. 
  • Temple University School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management worked in conjunction with the Small Business Development Center, to develop the Center for Hospitality Resilience, which provides programming and assistance to the business community that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • ICYMI: Tomorrow, Sept. 2, at 1 p.m., PRLA will be hosting a webinar with officials from Philadelphia to review indoor dining regulations and answer your questions. REGISTER
  • Today is the last day to complete the National Restaurant Association's economic impact survey. 
August 31
  • Friday afternoon, Allegheny County updated its July 17 order to allow for outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people. All other requirements remain unchanged. PRESS RELEASE
  • On Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 1 p.m., PRLA will be hosting a webinar with officials from Philadelphia to review indoor dining regulations and answer your questions. REGISTER
  • Gov. Wolf today called on the Legislature to pass paid sick and family leave. READ MORE 
  • Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. The survey closes at the COB on September 1.
  • Pittsburgh Business Times published an op-ed by PRLA member and Eat'n Park CEO Jeff Broadhurst urging for the lessening the restaurant restrictions. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney issued an apology on Twitter this afternoon after a photo surfaced of him dining indoors at a Maryland restaurant while restaurants in Philadelphia have not been permitted to reopen their dining rooms. 

August 28
  • MGM Resorts today announced it will send separation letters to 18,000 previously furloughed employees. READ MORE
  • Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. 
  • Today is the last day to apply for a COVID-19 Small Business Grant program. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. This will be the last round of grants from this program.
August 27
  • Please help us quantify and further illustrate the economic impact that COVID-19 is having on the restaurant industry. Restaurant operators: Please take a few minutes to complete the latest National Restaurant Association economic impact survey. 
  • The BLCE is reporting that last week it issued 21 warnings to licensees related to COVID-19 regulations. READ MORE | VIEW MONITORING DASHBOARD
  • Tomorrow is the last day to apply for a COVID-19 Small Business Grant program. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. This will be the last round of grants from this program.
  • The PLCB has provided a list of licensee-only products stocked at Licensee Service Centers and other specific locations across the state. Contact the wholesale team at ra-lbwholesale@pa.gov or plcbloop@pa.gov to discuss your needs, the location of these items, or how the PLCB can assist you in accessing these products.
  • A recent National Restaurant Association survey of consumers found that the majority of U.S. adults say they know of a restaurant in their community that has permanently closed during the coronavirus outbreak. 
August 26
  • Today, the National Restaurant Association launched another economic impact survey. Please take a few minutes to complete it. 
  • AHLA released the findings from its national survey regarding consumers' reactions to the proactive safety and sanitation steps being take by hotels. Eight out of 10 frequent travelers say they feel comfortable staying in a hotel that has implemented protocols called for in AHLA’s Safe Stay initiative. MORE RESULTS
  • If you missed today's Industry Update webinar, you can watch the recording here.
  • This afternoon, the Philadelphia Inquirer published an op-ed by John Longstreet calling for the Governor to rescind his July 15 order. READ MORE
  • The final window for applying to the COVID-19 Small Business Grant program will close on August 28. All applications must be made through your local CDFI where your business is located. If you applied after the first application window, you need not reapply. All qualified applications will be rolled into this application window.
  • ICYMI: Penn State University's Food Decisions Research Laboratory developed a profit-planning tool for small- and medium-sized restaurants to estimate and plan their profit and cash flows during the COVID-19 crisis, free of charge. LEARN MORE
  • The National Restaurant Association Restaurant Law Center offers 5 guidelines on what you can do to protect your restaurant and employees. 

August 25
  • Gov. Wolf today presented his fall legislative agenda via press release, which focused on three areas: 
    • Relief and protection for workers and families
    • Recovery for small businesses
    • Reforming government, protecting elections
  • Both the Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman and House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff issued statements responding to the Governor's fall agenda. 
  • The Governor's Office also shared an update of its COVID-19 monitoring dashboard and contact tracing results. As with the last update, less than half of those individuals surveyed actually responded. READ MORE
  • Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Jerry Oleksiak today announced Pennsylvania will get nearly $1.5 billion to provide an extra $300 per week to eligible unemployed workers through the temporary federal Lost Wages Assistance program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. READ MORE
  • Gov. Wolf today sent a letter calling on state lawmakers in both chambers to extend the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures as he does not have to legal authority to extend it beyond August 31. READ MORE
  • PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE
  • Crawford County Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Juanita Hampton will retire at the end of the week. Best wishes on your next adventure, Juanita! READ MORE
  • ICYMI: PRLA and PA ProStart are asking for industry members to help identify and deliver creative virtual experiences to compliment and enrich high school culinary programs across PA. Let us know how you can support this initiative here.
August 24
  • PRLA is currently seeking nominations for our statewide board of directors and treasurer. Self nominations are accepted. LEARN MORE
  • AHLA announced over the weekend that the next Forum Speaker Series, Aug. 31 at 10 a.m. will feature a LIVE conversation with Mark Hoplamazian, President & CEO, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and AHLA Vice Chair of the Board, and Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, 56th Mayor of the City of Chicago. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Last week, Philadelphia announced it will allow for indoor dining on September 8. The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
  • US Foods joins growing list of ghost kitchen services to help with off-premise push. The program aims to guide restaurant operators in opening facilities that produce food solely for delivery, with no dine-in areas. LEARN MORE

August 21
  • Last night, the James Beard Foundation announced that it will suspend its awards program in 2020 and 2021. READ MORE 
  • When Philadelphia allows for indoor dining on September 8, please note the following update to dining/service hours:
    • The last seating for indoor or outdoor dining will be 11 pm and establishments must close for service by midnight.
    • Establishments with a temporary license requiring outdoor seating to close by 10 p.m. will automatically shift to 11 p.m. on Sept. 8
    • Establishments currently offering seating after 11 p.m. / service after midnight will be required to meet the new 11 p.m. rule on Sept. 8. 
  • The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
  • ICYMI: The summer issue of the PRLA's quarterly magazine was released last week. Features articles from Ecolab, Peter Romero of Restaurant Business, National Restaurant Association, and a 2-part series by Tim Hand and Bruce Reinstein. 

August 20
  • Today, Philadelphia announced indoor dining will begin on September 8. Noteworthy items from this announcement include:
    • 25 percent capacity
    • Tables have to have 4 seats or fewer
    • Servers must wear face masks AND face shields
    • Operators are encouraged to increase airflow via open windows and better HVAC 
    • Last call for all indoor dining orders will be at 11 p.m. and establishments will be required to be closed for service by midnight.
  • The City of Philadelphia also released an application for restaurants that wish to have more than 50 people at one time for outdoor seating. DOWNLOAD
  • Several bills and co-sponsorship memos have been introduced and circulated in response to PRLA's general and licensee-specific legislative priorities. These bills will be the focus of the legislative roundtables announced yesterday.  VIEW SUMMARY 
  • This summer, the Temple University SBDC launched the Center for Hospitality Resilience. The Center is currently conducting a needs survey of the hospitality industry to get a better sense of what services would be most useful to you.
  • The Restaurant Law Center has issued a white paper on what to do if a patron refuses to wear a mask. 
  • On behalf of a coalition of businesses, the U.S. Chamber submitted a letter urging the Administration and Congress to find a cooperative path to forgive the tax liabilities deferred through the recent Executive Order Deferring Payroll Tax Obligations. 
  • Former PRLA chairman of the board, Michael Passalacqua had an op-ed published in the Observer-Reporter asking for the data that justifies the current mitigation restrictions on the industry. 

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

August 18
  • Today, the Pa. Department of Agriculture released COVID-19 enforcement actions for August 10-16. There were 637 total inspections, 31 of which were complaint-driven, nine were COVID-19 specific complaints. READ MORE
  • Commissioner Farley reiterated at today's press conference that an announcement would be made for indoor dining for restaurants by August 21, if not sooner.
  • Eater.com looks at why some landlords would rather let their restaurant tenants walk than reduce their rent. READ MORE
  • A new national report shows that the hotel industry is facing a historic wave of foreclosures, with nearly 1 out of every 4 CMBS loans delinquent on payment. Nearly 4,000 hotel industry leaders sent an urgent letter to Congress urging immediate action by enacting the HOPE Act, bipartisan legislation intended to provide assistance to small businesses that operate in the ailing commercial real estate market.  
  • AHLA yesterday released updated Safe Stay guidelines. Safe Stay website
  • The National Restaurant Association last week announced that while consumer spending at restaurants is increasing, the July sales volume was about $13 billion lower than pre-COVID levels registered in January and February. READ MORE 
  • Have you signed our "Stand With Restaurants" petition yet? Sign and share with your email lists. Or, download this sign to hang in your business. 
  • The Pa. Department of Health on Friday released its contact tracing data, which showed that more than half of those who tested positive COVID-19 from July 13 through August 11 didn't respond to the survey. The Commonwealth Foundation has visually summarized the various state data. VIEW​
August 17
  • Have you signed our "Stand With Restaurants" petition yet? Sign and share with your email lists. Or, download this sign to hang in your business. 
  • Philadelphia today released a new payment plan to support businesses that were in tax compliance before the pandemic struck. This program is for businesses struggling to pay business taxes since March 1, 2020, and do not owe taxes prior to that date. LEARN MORE
  • Today, Gov. Wolf announced the recipients of the $50 million hazard pay grants. READ MORE
  • On Friday, Gov. Wolf announced an agreement to that will provide Lebanon County businesses and organizations with $12.8 million in CARES Act funding. READ MORE 
  • ICYMI: Last week, PRLA hosted a webinar on de-escalation skills and techniques. The archive of the webinar is available here for you to share with your staff. 
  • This week's Industry Update webinar on Wednesday, August 19 will feature special guest Sean Kennedy, National Restaurant Association EVP of Government Affairs. RSVP for our 11 a.m. webinar here.
  • PRLA partner HRFoodSafe is offering in-person ServSafe Manager's Certification classes around Pennsylvania. All classes are following masking and social distancing guidelines to ensure participants' safety. UPCOMING CLASSES 
  • The Democratic National Convention kicks off tonight and runs through Aug. 20. The Republican National Convention will run August 24-27. 
August 14
  • The U.S. Senate officially adjourned through Labor Day despite not coming to an agreement on the next stimulus package. Here's where things stand.
  • Sen. Chuck Schumer announced today his co-sponsorship of the RESTAURANTS Act, which would provide $120 billion in aid and assistance to restaurants. Find out what this might mean for the industry on Sean Kennedy's webinar on Wednesday, August 19 at 2 p.m. REGISTER
  • The General Services Administration (GSA) announced the per diem rates for 2021. The FY2021 CONUS per diem rate is set at $151 ($96 lodging / $55 meals). READ MORE
  • PRLA, Safe Service PGH, and the Allegheny County Health Department entered into a partnership to form Safe Service Allegheny. This collaborative effort provides tools and resources to assist the industry with all aspects of compliance. LEARN MORE
  • Yesterday, Pa. Reps. Gary Day (R, Lehigh/Berks) and Ryan Mackenzie (R, Lehigh/Berks) introduced HB 2789, which allow restaurants to convert collected sales tax into a grant. The bill was referred to the House Finance Committee. 

August 13
  • The SBA is warning consumers to beware of malicious COVID-19 phishing and scams. The SBA Cyber Security team is aware of a scheme involving malicious actors seeking personal information by impersonating the Office of Disaster Assistance and SBA-themed Eventbrite events. LEARN MORE | REPORT FRAUD
  • The Pa. Department of Agriculture has released restaurant enforcement data for August 3-9. The numbers reflect actions taken for routine inspections and complaint-driven inspections. Of the 22 complaint-driven inspections, 4 were in relation to COVID-19. READ MORE 
  • The Summer Issue of Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Matters is now available, with features from Peter Romero (Restaurant Business), Ecolab, National Resta
  • PRLA continues to monitor all legislative activity, but below are a few of the measures that have been introduced to help our industry:
    • Business Interruption Insurance Relief
    • Better access to working capital / Business relief
      • HB 2369 – Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R, Allegheny) – Low-interest loan program
      • SB 1096 – Sen. Tom Killion (R, Chester/Delaware) – Establishes a small business disaster and relief fund
      • Co-sponsor memo – Sen. Tom Killion – Halt on evictions and foreclosures for businesses
        Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Tarah Toohill (R, Luzerne) – Moratorium on payments for existing PIDA loans
      • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Todd Stephens (R, Montgomery) – Financial assistance for small businesses to meet payroll during shutdown
    • Tax Relief / UC Issues
      • Co-sponsor memo – Reps. David Rowe (R, Snyder) & Francis Ryan (R,Lebanon) – Suspension of sales and personal income tax
      • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Aaron Kaufer (R, Luzerne) – Seeks a waiver from the federal government to allow small business owners to collect unemployment compensation
      • Co-sponsor memo – Sen. Scott Martin (R, Lancaster) – Allows counties and municipal governments to make changes to their property tax discount and base periods, as well as remove penalties for late payments
      • Co-sponsor memo – Rep. Anita Kulik (D, Allegheny) – Extends sales tax remittance deadline
    • While no travel bans currently exist in Pennsylvania, we have prepared template letters for essential hotel and foodservice workers that you can use if needed. HOTEL LETTER   RESTAURANT LETTER
    • Pennsylvania small businesses are eligible to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Relief Loans. APPLY ONLINE
    • Pennsylvania Shared-Work Program
      This program is through the Unemployment Compensation Office which allows an employer to temporarily reduce the work hours of a group of employees and divide the available hours equaling rather than laying off any employees.
    • Department of Community & Economic Development
      A collection of links to various resources for employers in response to COVID-19.
    • Office of Unemployment Compensation
      Resources and information regarding UC benefits. Prepare now so if you or your employees need to file, your application(s) can be processed quickly.
    • AH&LA is surveying hoteliers to identify those who are willing to enter into temporary leases for certain types of lodging properties at this time. TAKE SURVEY
    • The Pa. Department of Human Services is conducting a Feeding & Sheltering Survey of Pa. businesses.  
    • Must Have Menus has released a Coronavirus Response Kit for Restaurants full of actionable messaging templates that your restaurants can use for Takeout, Delivery, Safety, Hours, Pick-Up, Meal Kits and more.
    • ServSafe recently launched two, new free on-demand training modules to address COVID-19 precautions for takeout and delivery. It's available in English and Spanish. SERVSAFE Takeout and Delivery: COVID-19 Precautions
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