Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf vetoed a bill that will allow the reopening of restaurants at full capacity, citing the reason that it will “increase the likelihood of COVID-19 outbreaks.”
Pennsylvania State Rep. Garth Everett introduced House Bill 2513, which he believes a “common-sense step in the right direction towards recovery.” The State House passed the bill on September 23.
Gov. Wolf strongly disagrees that reopening restaurants and other eating establishments at full capacity will help the state recover from the public health and economic crisis.
Pennsylvania COVID-19 cases are increasing
In his veto message, Gov. Wolf stated that Pennsylvania is experiencing an increase in the number of people infected by the deadly virus. The State had 172,169 confirmed cased of COVID-19 and 8,457 Pennsylvanians passed away due to the disease as of October 16.
According to the governor, he cannot approve House Bill 2513 because it “jeopardizes public health and safety.” He noted that the bill allows eating establishments such as restaurants, clubs, bars, and banquet halls to operate up to 100% capacity without following the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the State to protect employees, customers, and communities and reduce the risk of spreading of COVID-19.
