State Senator Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes) today issued the following statement in response to the governor’s decision to close down most Minnesota businesses, including bars and restaurants, as part of his COVID-19 response.

“I am glad that we have been able to work with the governor to combat the spread of COVID-19 in Minnesota. We have worked across the aisle to provide emergency funding for the experts on the front lines and to put money into the health care system. We will continue to work together.

But I sincerely, sincerely hope the governor will reconsider his decision to close down most private businesses – including, but definitely not limited to, bars and restaurants. These small businesses are the backbone of our state’s economy. Many of them have high overhead and low margins. Ordering them to close, even for two weeks, will have a disastrous effect not just on our economy, but on thousands of hourly wage earners and small business owners.

Our response to COVID-19 must be smart, measured, and responsible. Experts have done a terrific job emphasizing the precautions that individuals can take, including social distancing and disciplined personal hygiene. In addition, most businesses are proactively taking extra steps to keep their customers safe.

But using executive authority to shut down private businesses is an overreach that will be devastating. I hope the governor will reconsider. “