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: March 1 at 5:34 p.m.

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
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September 24
  • The Allegheny County Health Department today announced that it will be lifting the county-specific mitigation standards and aligning with the state guidance. This means that the 11 p.m. “hard stop” on food and beverage in Allegheny County will now align with the state guidance of “last call” being at 11 p.m. (but kitchens may remain open past 11 p.m.). It is our understanding that the County will still be enforcing the 25/250 limitations on indoor/outdoor gatherings but we are looking for clarification on that front. 
  • While HB 2513 was passed by the House yesterday, the bill still needs to be signed by the Senate before it can go to the Governor for action. The Senate is not scheduled for session until October 5, unless they decide to return sooner for a non-voting session. 
  • During today's press conference, Gov. Wolf discussed COVID-19 mitigation, government reform, and election reform. He cited the CDC study released earlier this month as a reason to continue stringent mitigation strategies on restaurants, despite experts from the National Restaurant Association refuting the study's methodology.  
  • The Pa. Department of Labor today provided additional information to employers about “relief from charges” relating to unemployment compensation claims. DOWNLOAD
  • House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) abruptly shifted course Thursday and moved to assemble a new and smaller coronavirus relief bill to form the basis for renewed talks with the White House, amid mounting pressure from moderates in her caucus and increasingly alarming economic news. READ MORE
  • Sean Kennedy, National Restaurant Association EVP of Government Affairs, provides a 90-second update on what's happening in Washington D.C.
  • ICYMI: The AHLA recently released its Front Desk Feedback results, which found that 2/3 of the nation's hotels could close in six months without further relief. Take action to tell Congress to save hotels today.

September 23
  • This afternoon, the House passed HB 2513 by a bipartisan vote of 145-56. View the vote role call to find out how your representative voted. Your outreach to your senators and representatives this week was instrumental in moving this legislation. Thank you! While this is a monumental step in moving the industry forward, our work is not done.
  • HB 2513 now goes to the Governor's desk. He has three options: 1) sign into law, 2) veto the bill, or 3) do nothing and allow it to become law without signing. Options 1 or 3 would cause the bill to become law immediately from the date of signing (or at the end of the 10 day period the governor has to sign a bill). The Governor has indicated that he intends to veto the bill. If the bill is vetoed, the Legislature could (and probably would) attempt to override the veto. For an override to be successful, 2/3 of the legislators in both chambers (House and Senate) would have to vote in favor of the override. Stay tuned to the Daily Update for potential action you can take.
  • On this morning's Industry Update webinar, we discussed the impact of yesterday's announcement that a federal judge in Pittsburgh denied the state's request to delay enforcement of his ruling that many of Gov. Tom Wolf's pandemic shutdown orders were unconstitutional. Watch the recording here.
  • Philadelphia city officials and PRLA have put together this FAQ document to help operators in the city comply with local guidance. 
  • The City of Philadelphia has issued a supplemental order regarding special events and large gatherings. The order supplements the Modified Green Phase executive order issued on July 5, 2020, and previous policy statements. It states that the City will not be evaluating applications for special event or demonstration permits through October 22, 2020, and any subsequent renewals of the order. It also states that for outdoor events of 150 people or less, the City’s normal special event or demonstration permitting requirement will not be enforced, but that other permitting requirements may be applicable depending on the nature of the event. Based on current evidence regarding the status of the pandemic in Philadelphia and its unpredictability, the City strongly advises event organizers against planning large events to occur before February 28, 2021. READ MORE
  • At today's PLCB board meeting, the board discussed that COVID violations could be considered a reason not to renew a license, but it isn’t absolutely a reason a license wouldn’t be renewed. Guidance is forthcoming.
  • ICYMI: The Pennsylvania Conference for Women has partnered with PRLA to distribute $175,000 in grants to women-owned restaurants. MORE INFO | GRANT APPLICATION

September 22
  • This afternoon, the Senate passed HB 2513 by a bipartisan vote of 43-6. The bill will now go back to the House for a concurrence vote, which could happen as early as Monday. Your outreach to your senators was instrumental in moving this legislation. Thank you! While this is a monumental step in moving the industry forward, our work is not done. We'll provide information on next steps during tomorrow's Industry Update and in the Daily Update later this week.
    • The six Senators who voted no were: Sen. Farnese, Sen. Haywood, Sen. Hughes, Sen. Leach, Sen. Muth, Sen. Street. 
  • A federal judge in Pittsburgh has denied the state's request to delay enforcement of his ruling that many of Gov. Tom Wolf's pandemic shutdown orders were unconstitutional. The Governor confirmed that the state would move ahead with an appeal to the Third Circuit. READ MORE
  • Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Farley reminded that the court ruling denying the stay only applies to the state guidelines on congregating. 
  • Philadelphia city officials and PRLA have put together this FAQ document to help operators in the city comply with local guidance. 
  • In light of the updates to the restaurant guidance that took effect yesterday, the PLCB has revised its guidance for all licensees. READ GUIDANCE
  • On tomorrow's Industry Update webinar at 11 a.m., we'll be reviewing in detail the self-certification document, what the Senate's bipartisan vote to pass HB 2513 means for the industry, and the impact of the judge's denial of a stay. REGISTER
  • The Pennsylvania Conference for Women has partnered with PRLA to distribute $175,000 in grants to women-owned restaurants. MORE INFO | GRANT APPLICATION
  • Morning Consult, a global data intelligence company, has been tracking consumer confidence throughout the pandemic. At the beginning of fall, trend data shows comfort levels are ticking up in areas such as dining out, shopping at a mall, going to the movies, and more. READ MORE
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September 21
  • The Senate did not vote on HB 2513 due to concerns by the Republican caucus that the bill did not go far enough to reopen the restaurant industry. HB 2513 in its current form has the support of a number of Democrats and PRLA is working to address the concerns of the Republicans. Stay tuned for an “emergency update” tomorrow morning if we need you to do additional outreach. 
  • Today, all restaurants (except those in Philadelphia) can go to 50% occupancy as long as they self-certify by Oct. 5. Also taking effect today is the 11 p.m. last call for alcohol, with it cleared by midnight. Food sales may continue after 11 p.m.
  • PRLA will be reviewing in detail the self-certification document on Wednesday's Industry Update. REGISTER
  • ICYMI: Allegheny County announced that it will allow restaurants to self-certify with the state to go to 50% capacity. However, other restrictions, such as the 11 p.m. hard stop for indoor dining and the ban on tobacco use, will continue.  
  • The National Restaurant Association announced that restaurant employment recovery is in danger of stalling. The restaurant industry added just 133,600 jobs in August, and staffing levels remain nearly 2.5 million jobs below the pre-coronavirus peak. READ MORE
  • AHLA released the results of its Front Desk Feedback survey, which found that 74% of hotels will lay off more employees without further aid. FULL RESULTS
  • Gov. Wolf vetoed the high school sports attendance bill, setting up possible override vote in General Assembly. READ MORE

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

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

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

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

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

September 4
  • The Pa. Senate Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing today, September 4, at 1 p.m. on the impact of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. Several representatives from the industry are scheduled to testify. You can watch the livestream of the hearing here. We'll publish the archive in next week's update.
  • The Senate Law and Justice Committee will be meeting on Tuesday, September 8 to move HB 2513 (Everett—R, Lycoming). The bill will be amended with language that allows restaurants, hotels, clubs, distilleries, wineries, and breweries to open at a minimum of 50 percent occupancy with social distancing/barriers in place as permitted by the CDC and Department of Health. Identical language is also included to have the same provisions apply to “event venues.”
  • 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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