Illinois and Ohio Governors order bars and restaurants to close

(AP) -- Illinois Gov. J.B. is ordering all bars and restaurants in the state to close to dine-in patrons starting Monday night, March 16 through March 30 as part of an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Pritzker’s action Sunday came in reaction to crowds that filled restaurants and bars Saturday to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Pritzker said young people could be carriers of coronavirus, even though they have no symptoms.

Noting every decision being made is hard because of their impact on the public and businesses, he added the time for persuasion and public appeals is over.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine also announced that all restaurants and bars in the state have been ordered to close starting at 9 p.m. on Sunday. 

DeWine said establishments can stay open for carry-out and delivery, as the order will only affect dine-in customers.