On Monday, the Minnesota Senate passed legislation that would allow many small businesses to safely resume operations. The bill, Senate File 4511, provides a framework for businesses to return to the workplace and safely resume operations if they follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) guidelines.

“Almost 700,000 Minnesotans have applied for unemployment benefits since March and the jobless rate is the highest since the Great Depression. The surest way to get the economy moving again is getting people back to work safely,” said Senator Eric Pratt (R-Prior Lake), chair of the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Finance and Policy Committee. “I have met with many small businesses who are ready to resume operations in a way that prioritizes the health and safety of employees and customers. These businesses have been working for two months on plans for enhanced sanitation and safety in accordance with CDC and MDH guidelines. We need to give them a plan for moving forward.”

The legislation would allow businesses that are closed due to recent executive orders to resume operations if the business abides by workplace safety recommendations and guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The bill would take effect the day following its enactment.

The legislation awaits a hearing by the House of Representatives.

“These small business owners are our friends and neighbors that have put their life savings into their businesses and are at risk of never reopening.” said Senator Pratt. “The governor has effectively bent the curve on the health care crisis. This is a battle that can and should be addressed on two fronts, and we need to bend the curve on the economic crisis with the same urgency.”

Senator Eric Pratt represents Scott County in the Minnesota Senate. He serves as chair of the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Finance and Policy Committee and is an assistant majority leader.