On Thursday, the Minnesota Senate passed SF 1 on the Senate Floor, which gives businesses individual authority to create and implement safety preparedness plans so they can open safely. With each business having different needs and wants for their customers and staff, it is important to allow them the opportunity to do what works for them. 

“The way the Governor is using his authority to control small, local Minnesota businesses has gotten out of hand,” Senator Gene Dornink (R-Hayfield) said. “After a year of constant changes, it is time for Minnesotans to act independently to do what is best for their circumstances. Minnesota business owners will always keep the safety of their staff and customers as their highest priority without being told by the Governor. Walz should be using his position for guidance, not unilateral power.”

Small businesses are a vital part of Minnesota’s economy and communities. They are run by our friends, family members, and neighbors, and they have been crushed over the past year. The losses in small businesses across the state will have irreparable damage to not only our economy, but the livelihood of many community members. 

SF 1 brings power back to where it belongs, to the people. 

Minnesota’s economy has suffered dramatically since the beginning of the pandemic and resulting lockdowns. The Minneapolis Federal Reserve reports that Employment is down 8% from the previous year and that Labor force participation down from pre-pandemic levels. Unemployment also remains above pre-pandemic levels at 4.4% in December 20 vs. 3.3% in December 19. 

The pandemic has been particularly severe for small businesses and Minnesota’s hospitality industry. The National Federation of Independent Businesses reported that 1 in 5 small business owners was at risk of closing due to economic conditions.   Additionally, nearly 100 restaurants closed in the Twin Cities metro in 2020. More than half of restaurants report they face insolvency in the next few months if things don’t improve.