On Monday, Senate Republicans shared ideas from small businesses and churches to safely reopen as Minnesota enters the third month with a stay at home order. Despite billions in federal stimulus dollars being pumped into the state, nearly 600,000 Minnesotans have filed for unemployment, and thousands of small and local businesses and churches, have closed their doors to the public, and some have closed for good.

“The governor has shown some movement on the stay at home order, and this is a step in the right direction, but there is more that we can do now to more rapidly help struggling Minnesota businesses,” said Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville). “These businesses are working tirelessly to create plans and solutions to operate and ensure the safety of their customers, and we should be doing everything we can to ensure they can open safely protecting employees and customers. It’s in their interest to protect their customers, earn repeat businesses, and preserve Minnesota’s public health. I urge the governor and his administration to work with these businesses and hear their proposals.  Our communities rely on these small businesses, they are the identity of Minnesota towns and cities, and if we continue down this path without any adjustment or consideration, who knows what will be left.“

Speakers at the press conference included a salon owner, restaurant and bar owners, and the pastor of a small church. They shared the various efforts they’ve made to re-open following CDC guidelines. They also shared what might happen if the business closures remain in place any longer than planned. 

Senate Republicans also announced the formation of a Senate taskforce dedicated to economic recovery from COVID-19.

The purpose of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Taskforce (CERT) is to safely and efficiently reopen Minnesota’s economy in accordance with the state and federal public health guidelines. Chaired by Minnesota businessman Mike Vekich, CERT membership will include Senators from both caucuses, representatives from private businesses, health care, trade unions, higher education, local government, and the financial industry. 

Watch the press conference on Facebook