Business & Tech
Grand Rapids Chamber: Reopen Michigan Safely
Given the downward trend in COVID-19 cases and positivity rates, businesses around our state should be allowed to safely reopen. As part ...
2021-03-04
MICHIGAN’S ENDLESS COVID RESTRICTIONS ARE PUTTING SMALL BUSINESSES, JOBS, AND OUR ECONOMY AT RISK
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Given the downward trend in COVID-19 cases and positivity rates, businesses around our state should be allowed to safely reopen. As part of the Reopen Michigan Safely Coalition, made of 14 Chambers reaching all regions of the state, the Grand Rapids Chamber is advocating for exactly that. Michigan needs a clear data-driven plan to safely reopen offices, increase capacity in restaurants, stores, and entertainment facilities and return employees to in-person work safely.
This issue is timely because Michigan’s current office ban expires on April 14th and risks being extended for another six months without input from the legislature or the public.
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Michigan has one of the strictest limits on in-person work, with the overwhelming majority of states leaving these decisions in the hands of employers and employees. Plus, all forty-nine other states have a plan to fully reopen their businesses and economy.
“National studies suggest employers and employees alike are eager to return to offices to increase teamwork, collaboration, and innovation and reduce the mental stress and isolation employees have been experiencing while working from home,” Said Rick Baker, president, and CEO of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. “Michigan should follow the lead of other states and trust our small businesses to follow the science and safety guidelines to make the best choices for the survival of their businesses, your jobs, and our downtown communities.”
Job providers need the certainty of understanding “what” they can do and “when” to plan accordingly.
The goalpost has been moved too many times and it is having a negative impact on employers and employees. It’s time to get back to work.
Make your voice heard today! #ReopenMichigan
Contact Andy Johnston, Vice President of Government Affairs, at andy@grandrapids.org for more information.
This press release was produced by Grand Rapids Chamber. The views expressed here are the author’s own.