Gov. Kate Brown will not be requiring restaurants or bars to close early or at all "at this time," she said Monday morning.
Brown had said Sunday night that she was considering closing restaurants and bars in line with other governors who have restricted gatherings in public spaces, part of an effort to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Brown already has canceled gatherings of more than 250 people and closed schools.
"We are watching the regions of the world shut down," Brown said. "I am thinking about how something like this can impact Oregonians across the state. ... I'm working on it right now, I'm thinking about it and I expect to be announcing something very soon."
Experts say "social distancing," or avoiding social situations and public places, can help slow the spread of the virus.
(Courtesy Salem Statesman Journal)