Senator Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point) today issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s decision to close down many Minnesota businesses, including bars and restaurants, as part of his COVID-19 response.

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

That being said, I 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, especially those in areas of Greater Minnesota not yet impacted by COVID-19, are the backbone of our state’s economy. Many of them have high overhead and low margins. A sweeping declaration like this seems premature. 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 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 already proactively taking extra steps to keep their customers safe. Right now, using executive authority to shut down private businesses is an overreach that will be devastating. I hope the governor will reconsider.”