COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has ordered that all bars and restaurants close, in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus, with the order taking effect Sunday night.
Restaurants are allowed to continue offering carryout or delivery services. There is no expiration date for the order.
DeWine says it will encourage people to practice social distancing, which is the method being implemented to stop the spread of the virus. That has previously included banning large gatherings and canceling sporting events.
DeWine understands it will have a major economic impact, and additional steps are being taken to help those businesses affected the most.
Ohio Lieutenant-Governor Jon Husted says the state will waive the one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits, and establishments that purchased high-proof alcohol for St. Patrick's Day can return them, if they are unopened.