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Quick Updates to Start Off the Week

June 15, 2020

I hope you were able to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend. We have a few local and national updates to start off this week, and want to start with new guidance on the Payroll Protection Flexibility Act (the bill that “fixed” PPP issues). The SBA released guidance that is consistent with what we have already shared with you previously, which is that there is no 60% “cliff” that could invalidate loan forgiveness, and if borrowers received the loan before June 5th they can work with their lender to choose an 8-week forgiveness period or 24-week forgiveness period.  Otherwise, if you received the loan after June 5th, the 24-week forgiveness period automatically applies. Click here for more information. 

In DC, Mayor Bowser reiterated that the soonest we will move to Stage Two is Friday, June 19th and that she will likely provide an update on timing and what that Stage will look like midweek. We are currently on day 11 of the 14 day required decline to move to the next stage. We will keep you posted as we have more information. 

DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) released Guidelines for Expanded and New Outdoor Seating. These guidelines further detail information in terms of outdoor seating and draw on the guidance of DC Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It shares helpful guidance, graphic depictions, pictures and diagrams, as well as more detailed information on the logistics of outdoor dining. Most importantly the document states that there must be 6 ft between the chairs of different parties not just the tables. Click here for the full guidance. The guidance provides additional detail for:

  • Registration and permitting
  • Barrier usage
  • Sidewalk, parklet and alley seating
  • Pick up zones
  • Plazas and streateries 

We have also heard from some of you that it has been difficult to ask customers to remain in masks when they are not eating, or to follow social distancing requirements and other guidelines at times. We know this can be an uncomfortable conversation, and we know you want to operate in a way that is in compliance.  We’ve created a tool that could be helpful to empower you in these situations and as you move through various phases.  Recognizing that everyone plays a role in operating and acting responsibly, we developed this Operator/Diner Promise for DC restaurants, to be used and placed appropriately as you welcome guests into your establishments.  This message can serve as a reciprocated promise from you as an operator and from your guest to you if they choose to dine on premise.  We encourage you to personalize it with your logo in the upper left corner and post in a visible place for all to read as you are welcoming your guests and kindly offering clarity on protocol. 

Separately we are working with jurisdictions across the region to get more information on steps you as the operator are able to take if a customer is not adhering to the requirements.  You are free to deny service to any guests at any time who are not following required protocol as long as you do not act discriminatorily. 

In Maryland, Prince George’s County will enter a modified Phase Two today at 5pm. Click here for more details about the modifications. Montgomery County will also enter Phase Two this week, however the exact date has not been released at this time. We will keep you posted as more information becomes available. 

We expect to have more information as the week progresses about future reopening plans. Please stay tuned for more information, and as always please email us at coronavirus@ramw.org if you have any questions or we can help in any way. 

Be safe. Be kind.

Best, 

Kathy