Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says he may close schools for rest of the year

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said state officials are mulling over whether to close schools for the rest of the year in order to help contain the spread of COVID-19.

During his Sunday press conference to the state, DeWine said eating and drinking at all restaurants and bars will cease by 9 p.m. tonight. However, businesses that serve food will be able to provide carry out and delivery orders for customers.

“People will die if we do not make these hard decisions,” the governor said Sunday.

Additionally, Ohio will extend unemployment access to those who are in quarantine, and those who are unable to work due to the state’s evolving COVID-19 measures.

Watch the complete press conference here:

COVID-19 update: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine addresses public on the latest coronavirus outbreak details. Coverage: https://bit.ly/3aUwmVR
Posted by Cleveland 19 News on Sunday, March 15, 2020

These are tough decisions. We're inconveniencing people and making people's lives change - but we've got to save lives. Everything we're doing is to save lives. #COVID19 #COVID19OhioReady https://t.co/Wi1USTnpbw
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) March 15, 2020

As it stands, DeWine has banned mass gatherings that exceed 100 people, and has canceled class in all Ohio schools for at least the next three weeks.

Thirty-seven cases have been confirmed in Ohio, and 361 people are currently being tested.

A behind the scenes look at our #COVID19 call center. If you don't find the answers you're looking for here - https://t.co/3lWx4J9t3J - give our team a call. If you don't get through the first time, keep trying.

☎️833-4-ASK-ODH☎️ pic.twitter.com/L3jSU3mPAK
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) March 15, 2020