Harrisburg, PA. - While Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf gave his message of hope and encouragement to the state, hundreds of protestors gathered outside the state capitol building to speak out against the stay-at-home order and closing of businesses within the state. Carrying signs about the governor and the media, the protestors, most not wearing masks and standing closely, stood on the steps of the capitol as vehicles drove in a parade-fashion honking their horns. Many donned flags, signs, and markings on cars that read “ReOpen PA” and “Business Lives Matter.”

Pennsylvania officials advised against the gathering, which was organized in part by Chris Dorr, an Ohio gun activist, created the Pennsylvanians Against Excessive Quarantine Facebook group.

The governor, when asked about the protests, said he had not seen the protests, said all had a right to express their opinion but recommended social distancing was crucial to stay safe.

Overnight, the order that masks must be worn by all workers and customers at businesses that are continuing to operate in Pennsylvania under an order signed by the state health secretary April 15.

Gov. Wolf told Pennsylvanians that they "have given up a lot. It hasn't been easy." However, he stated it has been worth it. 

So far, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases on Sunday reached 33,232 with the death toll rising to 1,204. 

The reopening will require testing, monitoring, which is currently has a target date of  May 8, the governor said. The governor reminded social distancing is the key to controlling the virus from further spreading. 

Dr. Rachel Levine, the Secretary of Health for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, said there are 948 news cases as of today. Levine stated that the state is looking for trends in the reporting to see if any key indicators of the spread becomes clear. 

Levine pointed out that lower numbers of COVID-19 in certain counties aren't an indicator that it is safe to abandon the safe distancing or safe practices suggested, or to go out without mask. She reiterated the basic rules of covering coughs, proper handwashing, and social distancing are the key elements to get beyond and stop the spread of the disease. Levine stated while there is no glove requirement, however, masks are required to enter all businesses as of today. 

The governor, when asked about employees refusing to return to work after being laid off, stating the employees were making more money for not working, indicated that the state compensation can not be revoked and suggested that employers increase employee compensation was the solution.

Wolf said even as the state emerges after the beginning of the reopening, people will still have to use caution, noting staying at home was still the best bet for staying safe with no vaccine or cure in the near future. "Life is going to be different on the other side of this," he said.

The governor also signed Senate Bill 841 which will help local communities and businesses, by giving additional flexibility on property tax deadlines and waives late fees, allow for remote public meetings and notarization of documents so online vehicle sales can resume.

The bill also allows school districts to renegotiate contracts with service providers to ensure the payment of personnel.