Penn National Gaming temporarily suspends operations in Ohio

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Penn National Gaming announced today that an Executive Order by Governor Mike DeWine will cause it to temporarily suspend operations at its four gaming properties in the state as a precautionary measure against the ongoing spread of COVID-19.

According to the Executive Order, the state’s 11 casinos and racetracks with video lottery terminals are considered places of “mass gatherings” and are not allowed to accommodate more than 100 persons at any one time. Since Hollywood Casino - Columbus, Hollywood Casino - Toledo, Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway and Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course collectively employ more than 2,000 team members, Penn National is left with no choice but to temporarily close those facilities.

“The health and well-being of our guests and team members will always be our paramount concern,” said Jay Snowden, President and CEO of Penn National Gaming. “Since the coronavirus threat began there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at any Penn National casino, and we have implemented stringent CDC-recommended protocols throughout our enterprise, including increased daily cleaning regimens at our facilities, maximizing air circulation, cancelling or postponing all concerts and live events, and we’re in the process of temporarily closing down buffets, among other initiatives.

“As for our 2,000 team members who will be impacted by this temporary closure, we plan to continue to pay their full wages and benefits through the end of March, with the hope that the situation on the ground in Ohio will permit the Governor to lift his Order by then. This is a challenging time for all of us, and we are very appreciative of the overwhelming support and understanding from our guests and team members. We look forward to reopening our doors just as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will be taking the opportunity to continue our deep cleaning efforts and preparing our casinos to welcome our loyal customers back,” concluded Mr. Snowden.