DCED: Process to Reopen Pennsylvania

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented event that has impacted every part of the globe. All Pennsylvanians – businesses, communities, neighbors – have been affected and the Commonwealth has responded aggressively to the spread of COVID-19.

As stabilization starts to occur, Pennsylvania plans to proceed with returning to work cautiously. On April 22, Governor Tom Wolf announced his detailed plan for reopening Pennsylvania, categorizing the reopening with three phrases: red, yellow, and green. Phases are based on the conditions in the county, counties, or regions.

Below we will review what guidance is needed for businesses located in green phase counties.

Green Phase
As regions or counties move into the green phase, most restrictions will be eased, and the stay at home and business closure orders will remain suspended to allow PA’s economy to strategically reopen while continuing to prioritize public health.

Work & Congregate Setting Restrictions

Telework strongly encouraged

In-person business operations must follow the COVID-19 Business Guidance

All businesses operating at 50% occupancy in the yellow phase may increase to 75% occupancy

Child care may open complying with guidance

Congregate care restrictions in place

Prison and hospital restrictions determined by individual facilities

Schools subject to CDC and Commonwealth guidance

Social Restrictions

Large gatherings of more than 250 prohibited

Restaurants and bars open at 50% occupancy with continued implementation of the Restaurant Industry Guidance

Personal care services (including hair salons and barbershops) open at 50% occupancy by appointment only

Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities, and personal care services (such as gyms and spas) open at 50% occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged

All entertainment (such as casinos, theaters, and shopping malls) open at 50% occupancy

Construction activity may return to full capacity with continued implementation of the Construction Guidance

Requirements for COVID-19 Safety Communication

Businesses conducting in-person operations or serving the public are required to make employees and customers aware of the guidance provided by the Commonwealth to keep people at their establishment safe. Businesses must print, sign and post the “COVID-19 Safety Procedures for Businesses” flyer and post it on their premises in employee common spaces and near the business’s public entrance(s).

The flyer is available in English or Spanish and larger sizes can be found on the DCED website.

PPE & Supplies Directory
As businesses reopen, it is imperative they equip their employees with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and keep their workers and customers safe.

If your business needs PPE, visit the COVID-19 PPE & Supplies Business-2-Business (B2B) Interchange Directory to connect with manufacturers that have masks, thermometers, hand sanitizer, face shields, medical gowns, and cleaning disinfectants available.

Questions?
For any questions, contact the Department of Community and Economic Development at 1.866.466.3972 or stay up-to-date with COVID-19 information by visiting the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Responding to COVID-19 Guide.