North Ramsey News

Sen. Roger Chamberlain said Gov. Tim Walz’ decision to close down Minnesota businesses amid the coronavirus pandemic will result in devastating consequences for all those involved.

“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,” Chamberlain said in a press release on the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus website. “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.”

Walz has ordered the temporary closure of a variety businesses including restaurants and bars to dine-in customers, gyms, tanning establishments, spas, barbershops, tattoo parlors and nail salons.

“As the cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota continue to climb, we must take decisive action to curb the spread of this pandemic and protect the health and safety of Minnesotans,” Walz said in a press release on governor’s website. “This is a challenging time for business owners, employees, children and families alike. We must come together as one Minnesota to care for our neighbors and slow the spread of COVID-19.”