The state House of Representative on Thursday passed multiple pieces of legislation aimed at shifting power from Gov. Tom Wolf. About two months ago, Wolf used his executive power to order residents statewide to stay at home and shut down nonessential businesses due to the coronavirus pandemic.

House Bills 2388 and 2412 and Senate Bill 327 all passed House votes on Thursday that will send them to the governor's desk next week.

The two House bills would open a number of businesses regardless of Wolf's orders in terms of phases. The Senate bill would give county's an opportunity to independently monitor and respond the coronavirus in their area.

“I'm really hoping that the governor reads through these and he signs these bills,” said Rep. Marci Mustello, R-11th. “All small businesses are essential businesses to somebody.”

This is a breaking news report — read more about the bills and see updated coronavirus statistics in Friday's Butler Eagle.