YORK – York County will join 11 counties to enter the “yellow” phase of the governor’s reopening process effective May 22, according to Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York).
“While this is not a return to the life we knew three months ago, it is a sign of progress for many in our community. The reason we enter this stage is because of the hard work and efforts of the citizens to flatten the curve and most importantly, limit the coronavirus’ infection rate with the most vulnerable population in our local nursing homes. This is a major testament to the frontline workers who are going above and beyond to protect our parents and grandparents in these facilities. This will help many local businesses and their employees begin the process of slowly reopening,” Phillips-Hill said.
“I will continue to press Governor Wolf to responsibly reopen all sectors of our local economy because I believe that protecting our public health and protecting our economy are not mutually exclusive goals,” she added.
The yellow phase of reopening will allow businesses with in-person operations to open under strict health guidelines and building safety orders to reduce the risk of infection. Telework must still continue where feasible. Schools closures and restrictions on congregate care, prison visits and large gatherings of more than 25 people will remain in place. Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities and entertainment venues will remain closed, and restaurants and bars will still be limited to carry-out and delivery only.
A total of 37 other counties have already entered the yellow phase through May 15. All other counties in Pennsylvania will remain under Governor Wolf’s stay-at-home order. Only businesses deemed life-sustaining by the Wolf Administration are permitted to operate in those areas of the state.
Last week, Senator Phillips-Hill and most members of the York County legislative delegation outlined in a letter to Gov. Wolf how York County meets the metrics established by Governor Wolf and noted that the county can safely, responsibly and intelligently reopen. On Tuesday, local lawmakers held a news conference with community leaders, business leaders and county and local officials to outline why York County and Adams County should move out of the “red” phase and into the “yellow” phase.