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What does moving to the “Yellow Zone” entail?

May 11, 2020

By Richard A. Monti, Esquire

On Friday, Governor Tom Wolf announced that most of the counties that comprise Southwest Pennsylvania – except for Beaver County — will be moved in to the “yellow zone,” beginning on May 15, 2020.  This is great news for some local businesses struggling due to COVID-19.

That said, the Governor’s order is a small step in the return to “business as usual.”

Here’s what being in the “yellow zone” means:

  • Retail stores, business offices, and state agencies are now allowed to operate from their place of business.
  • Residential and commercial construction is allowed to continue.
  • Gyms, spas, theaters, and casinos are to remain closed.
  • Teleworking, where possible, is still strongly encouraged.

If your place of business is allowed to re-open, there are still rules that must be followed:

  • All businesses must follow CDC and Department of Health guidelines for social distancing and cleaning.
  • Retailers are encouraged to offer curbside service.
  • Businesses should limit the amount of patrons in the office at one time to half of the usual occupancy.
  • Masks should still be worn.

This is a confusing time for many business owners. Rothman Gordon is here to help answer questions facing your business, such as:

  • Are you allowed to reopen?
  • Even you are allowed to reopen, does that mean you should?
  • How do you reopen while minimizing risk to your employees and patrons?
  • What should “back to work” mean for your business?
  • How do you comply with local, state, and federal laws?
  • Are you facing contractual liabilities due to the Governor’s new order?
  • What if an employee refuses to return?
  • What is my recourse if customers will not comply with safety standards?

The issues surrounding reopening are complex and the best course of action will be dependent on your specific business. Please contact our business attorneys directly, use our online contact form or call (412) 338-1100. We will work with you, considering your unique circumstances to help determine the safest course of action.

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