Shutdown enforcement starts today
By Jamie Martines
Trib Total Media
Pennsylvania State Police will begin enforcing the closure of “non-life-sustaining” businesses starting at 8 a.m. today, said Col. Robert Evanchick, state police commissioner.
Pittsburgh police also announced Sunday that officers will be responding to 911 calls and other complaints about nonexempt businesses that ignore orders to shut down.
Officers will investigate the complaints and, if necessary, create a report that could be used if action is taken against businesses that fail to heed the order.
Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday ordered the physical locations of all Pennsylvania businesses that do not provide life-sustaining services to close in an effort to keep people home and slow the spread of COVID-19.
“Troopers and liquor control officers will make every effort to achieve voluntary compliance by educating business owners and using discretion when appropriate,” Evanchick said in a statement Sunday. “But our message is clear: COVID-19 is a serious health and public safety risk that requires an extraordinary response from law enforcement and the public. I urge everyone to stay home, stay calm and stay safe.”
Businesses that do not comply could face possible criminal penalties, the statement said.
The violations are summary offenses punishable by fines, jail time and other administrative penalties, officials said.
Grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, beer distributors, bakeries and auto parts stores are among those businesses permitted to stay open.
A list of all businesses that may or may not operate with a physical location was provided by Wolf’s office and can be found here.
Car dealers, laundry services and dry cleaners are among the businesses that must close. Laundromats were considered essential and can remain open, the governor’s office clarified Friday.
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board started enforcing mandated closures of bars and restaurants that continue to serve food and alcohol on-premises last week.
Carry-out sales of food and beverages are still permitted.
The state departments of health and agriculture, along with local officials, are also permitted to enforce closures.
