By: Laurie A, McCarthy, Esquire
As of June 26, 2020, 66 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties will be in the green phase.[1] The green phase is the third and least restrictive in Pennsylvania’s reopening plan; however, while green usually means go, moving into the green phase of reopening does not mean a return to normal. Although we are going green, many restrictions remain such as limits on building occupancy and the requirement of face masks. So what does the green phase really mean?
Work and Congregate Setting Restrictions
- Continued telework is still strongly encouraged.
- Business with in-person operations must follow updated Business and Building Safety Requirements. https://www.governor.pa.gov/covid-19/business-guidance/
- All businesses operating at 50% occupancy in the yellow phase may increase to 75% occupancy.
- Childcare may open in compliance with guidance.
- Congregate care restrictions remain in place.
- Prison and hospital restrictions can now be determined by the individual facilities.
- School can open for in-person learning subject to CDC and Commonwealth guidance. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html
Social Restrictions
- Large gatherings of more than 250 people are prohibited.
- Masks are required when entering a business.
- Restaurants and bars can offer indoor dining, but they have to operate at 50% capacity.
- Personal care services including hair salons and barbershops can open at 50% occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged.
- Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities, and personal care services such as gyms and spas can open at 50% occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged.
- Youth sports may resume subject to all applicable guidance.
- Entertainment venues like theaters, shopping malls, museums and casinos can operate at 50% capacity.
Note that Philadelphia is moving into a modified green phase on Friday, June 26, 2020, keeping some restrictions in place until July 3rd or later. For more on Philadelphia’s modified green phase, you can find its Reopening with Care plan at the following link. https://www.phila.gov/media/20200618125038/COVID-19ReopeningwithCare.pdf
Employers navigating the complexities of reopening business and bringing employees back to work as we move to the green phase of reopening may wish to consult with experienced legal counsel to ensure legal compliance and to help minimize their potential liability exposure.
The Law Firm of DiOrio & Sereni, LLP is a full-service law firm in Media, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We strive to help people, businesses and institutions throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania solve legal problems – and even prevent legal problems before they occur. To learn more about the full range of our specific practice areas, please visit www.dioriosereni.com or contact Laurie A. McCarthy, Esquire at 610-565-5700 or at [email protected]
[1] Lebanon County will remain in the yellow phase due to an uptick in cases.
Like what you see? Join our mailing list
