Pritzker Orders Bars Closed From Monday Through March 30

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CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Gov. J.B. Pritzker addressed Illinois residents today with the latest updates concerning COVID-19, the biggest news is the closure of restaurants and bars across the state.  The Governor said there are no easy decisions to make as he announced that all bars and restaurants will close to the public Monday night at the close of business through March 30. His news comes as the Illinois Health Department announced that there are currently 93 confirmed coronavirus cases in 13 counties across the state. 

Starting tomorrow the Thompson Center will be closed to everyone who does not have business with the state.  All state employees will be paid during the closure time period.

As for food access for school children the governor says the food supply chain in Illinois is among the nation's strongest and steadiest.Pritzker said he has spoken with grocers to find what would help keep stores stocked.  Restrictions on overnight deliveries will be lifted among other steps being made to keep food available.He also said the Illinois Agriculture Department is looking into rural farming communities and that other supply chains appear to be in working order. 

The governor also advised people not to hoard food.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot also joined Pritzker during the afternoon press conference, speaking specifically on ways to properly handle the hordes of international travelers who have spent hours in customs lines at O'Hare International Airport Saturday. 

"We don’t need more ICE members, we need more screeners at the airports," Lightfoot said. The mayor suggested deputizing Chicago firefighters as screeners to help with the influx of passengers coming into Chicago's busiest airport. 

 

This story is developing. Come back for more updates.