I’m sure you’ve heard about Gov. Walz’s EO 20-48. It basically continues the Stay at Home Order and closure of places of public accommodation until May 18, but does allow all retail businesses to resume operations on a curb-side basis. Also, barber shops and salons can sell retail products curb-side. As businesses begin to re-open, they must develop a preparedness plan to keep employees and customers safe (though this doesn’t need to be submitted to the state). More information about the EO can be found at: https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/safework/. Templates for businesses’ preparedness plans can be found at: https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/safework/business/. I know a lot of people wanted to see more happen today, and I think this is a good step in the right direction. I know it’s extra difficult for businesses when people can walk to another state and go to restaurants or bars or get a haircut. The one thing to keep in mind is that the dates are not necessarily hard and fast. The governor has demonstrated that this is all subject to change as the situation develops by allowing industrial/manufacturing and office setting businesses to re-open on Monday. I don’t’ think we should get too caught up on the date May 18 because it’s serving as a time frame (a couple more weeks) to asses where we’re at in terms of the state’s ability to absorb the spread of the virus. We’ve been doing a great job so far. I anticipate an announcement on more elective surgeries this weekend or early next week. Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you,
Ben
PO Box 612, Moorhead, MN 56561