Senate File 4480 puts businesses in charge of safe re-opening plans

(St. Paul, MN) – Today, Senator Andrew Mathews (R-Princeton) announced a detailed plan for re-opening Minnesota safely and effectively. Under this new legislation, businesses desiring to re-open will have the opportunity to send their safety plan to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) for review and answer.

“I have heard from a large number of people in my district and beyond who are desperate to re-open their businesses. Each has been prepared to change their usual protocol to keep the public and their employees safe,” said Sen. Mathews. “It is time to implement a fast-acting program to get people on their feet. Business owners are responsible, and the government should allow them to implement their plans instead of micro-managing.” 

Each application will include personally built strategies for social distancing and workplace hygiene, along with other information that a business determines may help DEED with the final decision.

Applications must be approved or denied in no more than three business days, since many businesses do not have the luxury of finances for extended wait times. To prevent arbitrary decisions, the bill also requires that DEED include the specific reason(s) for any denials with suggested changes that could result in approval upon re-submission.

“The shutdown has lasted for nearly a month, and many small business owners are faced with permanent closures very soon.  Businesses should have the opportunity to re-open with careful and considerate planning. It will benefit families, communities, and livelihoods while continuing our efforts to keep our distancing and staying safe during this COVID-19 pandemic,” Sen. Mathews concluded.