ST. PAUL - On April 23, Governor Walz announced that industrial, manufacturing, and office-based businesses will be able to reopen effective April 27.
State Representative Barb Haley (R-Red Wing) said she was pleased with the decision.
"Residents should know I've been listening to them and advocating for a smart, data-driven approach to getting Minnesotans back to work and allowing our small businesses to re-open with safety protocols that don’t jeopardize public health," Haley said. "This is the first step in that process."
Haley noted that Reidell Skates CEO Bob Riegelman of Red Wing took part in the press conference announcing the governor's decision.
Over the past few weeks, Haley has written and forwarded numerous letters on behalf of local business owners to Governor Walz and his administration, voted and spoken in favor of legislation that would benefit small businesses, helped secure a spot for Riegelman to testify in a Minnesota Senate hearing, and supported meeting with legislative rural caucus leaders and the governor's administration in hopes of making progress on behalf of those classified as "non-essential" businesses.
"A gradual return to work for our businesses is absolutely necessary, and I want to thank Governor Walz and his commissioners for working with us on this shared goal," Haley said. "And I'd also like to thank the local residents who have made their voices heard and became a part of this process. Without your input, we would not be moving forward."
To see Mr. Riegelman’s comments, click here.