Gov. Mills Orders All Dine-in Eateries to Close Until March 31

Governor Janet Mills on Wednesday ordered all restaurants and bars to close their doors to dine-in customers until March 31, 2020.

The measure is an effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19, and could be extended, if deemed necessary, beyond the current March 31 cutoff date.

Mills added that drive-through, curbside pickup, and delivery services from restaurants will still be allowed, and she encouraged Mainers to use them, in an effort to support local businesses who are being adversely affected by the measure.

In addition, the governor continues to prohibit gatherings of more than 10 people, and urges non-essential public-facing businesses, like gyms, hair salons, theaters, casinos, shopping malls, etc. to close for the next two weeks. This does not include businesses providing essential services.

Penobscot County has registered its first case of COVID-19, with a Wednesday total of 42 cases. Dr. Nirav Shah, Executive Director of the Maine CDC, says only four of those people have been hospitalized and one person has recovered from the illness.

Residents are encouraged to continue social distancing, working from home if possible, and washing their hands for 30 to 40 seconds, frequently throughout the day.