“By eliminating these critical protections, in addition to removing certain limits related to bar serviced and purchasing of alcoholic beverages, this bill increases the likelihood of COVID-19 outbreak,” said Gov. Wolf.
Additionally, the governor explained that Pennsylvania needs to maintain “these critical guidelines” since health experts are saying that “there is a resurgence of the virus this fall and winter.”
A “meaningless attempt” to change a critical tool for combating COVID-19
Gov. Wolf further said, “We need to retain the ability to implement further mitigation measures if necessary. As we learned this summer, the risk of spreading COVID-19 in restaurant settings is unique due to the length of interaction with others in proximity and the inability to utilize prevention practices such as wearing masks.”
Moreover, Gov. Wolf noted that House Bill 2513 “contains constitutional infirmities” citing the fact that it “attempts to take away executive authority” amid the coronavirus pandemic.
