This month marks a year since Minnesota was first shut down.  The last larger events in town included our very own State of the City event and the YMCA Shamrock Shuffle took place on March 14.  What a long year it has been. 

 We have seen our businesses and economy gradually open up and close down over this time. Currently, our restaurants, fitness centers, the Museum, churches and the Theatre are still at limited capacity. Our indoor and outdoor events are also limited.  The dial is dialing forward but very slowly. 

 Rep. Dave Baker, R-Willmar, announced on Feb. 8 legislation that would reopen Minnesota.  As you can see, it’s well thought out and safety is considered as the timeline is drawn out.  On Feb. 18, the Senate companion Bill was introduced by Sen. Jeff Howe, R-Rockville. 

 The Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce which represents over 570 businesses in the area fully endorses this legislation. Some of these businesses that I listed out need to start seeing more business coming in their doors in order to thrive. In fact, all of the businesses that I listed have not run at 100% in a year.  Could you imagine running your own business at no more than 50% for 12 months?  All of these businesses were closed at some point as well. 

 Restaurants, ballrooms and churches need to start planning their weddings, parties and receptions. Right now, with Iowa and South Dakota being open (or at least left to the county or city to make their own decision on being limited), we are losing this business to them. 

President Biden announced earlier this week that vaccinations will be distributed to everyone in the Untied States by the end of May.  This timeline was bumped up by two months with the Johnson & Johnson vaccination being approved by the United States FDA.   

 It’s time to move the dial forward and for Gov. Tim Walz to at least make a plan so businesses aren’t left hanging. That plan could and should be Rep. Baker (HF/1336) and Sen. Howe’s (SF/1200) legislation. 

— Brad Gruhot is president of Mareshall Area Chamber of Commerce, Chris Swedzinski represents District 16A in the Minnesota House and Gary Dahms represents 16in the Minnesota Senate.