PORTLAND, Ore. (KGW) — Oregon Gov. Kate Brown announced Monday afternoon that she will sign an executive order banning all statewide events of more than 25 people and limiting restaurants and bars to takeout and delivery only.
The order begins Tuesday and is in place for four weeks. "The actions we take today will save lives," Brown said.
The governor said businesses that don't follow her executive order could be subject to misdemeanor criminal charges. But she urged businesses to follow her order so police resources don't have to be used to enforce this order.
The governor also advised other businesses to evaluate their operating functions. "Can your business do the equivalent of restaurant take out? If you can't, I strongly urge you to close your doors temporarily," Brown said.
Food service at health care facilities, workplaces, and other essential facilities will continue.
"My goal is to protect the health and safety of Oregon families. Every step we are taking is being made with community input and careful consideration of its impacts," said Brown. "Each action has ripple effects across our state, both on a personal and an economic level. But we can overcome these hurdles in an Oregon Way. By working together, we are stronger, even if it’s in ways we never thought possible."
