Coronavirus: Smithfield Declares State Of Emergency

SMITHFIELD, RI — Smithfield has declared a state of emergency amid the coronavirus epidemic. Town Manager Randy Rossi said the declaration runs through March 22 and will be extended following town council action in the coming week.

Effectively immediately, all entertainment licenses, mass gatherings and event permits have been revoked. All license holder are restricted from serving or gathering more than 25 patrons at a time. All non-essential public meetings are canceled or postponed.

Town offices will operate with restricted in-person business. Those coming to the town offices must call before they come in. Taxes can be paid online, mailed directly, or put in the dropbox in town hall.

Earlier on Monday, Gov. Gina Raimondo ordered all restaurants, bars, cafes and coffee shops closed to the public until at least March 30.

"We understand that these orders are very difficult for our local restaurants and businesses," Rossi said. "However, we must be aggressive now in order to slow the spread of COVID-19, so our community has a stronger future."

The Department of Labor and Training is offering assistance programs for employees. CommerceRI is offering assistance to businesses through their Small Business Hotline: (401) 521-HELP or e-mail info@commerceri.com.

Don't miss updates about the latest coronavirus updates in Rhode Island as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

Read more:

• Coronavirus: Rhode Island Bishop Suspends All Masses
• 'These Measures Will Save Lives': Raimondo On Coronavirus
• Coronavirus In RI: 6 New Cases, Insurance Policies Changed
• Coronavirus In Rhode Island: General Assembly Closed For A Week
• National Grid Suspends Electric, Gas Shutoffs During Coronavirus
• One Of RI's New Coronavirus Cases Is Cranston West Student
• Coronavirus In RI: 9 New Cases, Public Schools Closed