Robert Aderholt
WASHINGTON, DC-Sometimes it seems as though telework and quarantine will never end, but always remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I am happy to report that serious discussions are taking place about when to get back to work and how to reopen our great American economy. Now, a lot has to happen before businesses can reopen their doors, manufacturing can get back to full steam and Bryant-Denny and Jordan-Hare can be filled with fans, but I think it is good news that we are shifting towards that goal and thinking about what it will take to get there.
Reopening the Economy
I’m sure many of you watched President Trump’s news conference Thursday evening where he announced his phased approach for reopening the economy. Since March, I have said that we must ensure the American economy does not completely collapse during this crisis, and it’s time to really think about the best ways to approach this. However, it can’t be underscored enough how vital it is that safety remain the number one priority. Before we all get back to business it must be clear and evident that opening doors will not lead to another surge of the virus.
Business Owners in the 4th District Weigh-in
Once safety is ensured, then it is time to start getting folks back to work. I am grateful to be participating in Governor Ivey’s Task Force that is studying this very issue, and as a part of my work on this I sent out a survey to business owners in our district. It’s clear that people want to get back to work as soon as possible, and although the numbers are preliminary, I think they represent the broader feeling of our community.
Added up, the numbers show that 62% of business owners want to open back up either on or before May 1st. Additionally, 81% reported that their workforce is willing, able, and ready to return to normal operations. These numbers are very encouraging, and I will include them in the report I give to the Governor next week. It is my hope that this information will encourage the Task Force to find the best methods on how to return to work.
There are many ideas on how to do this, such as sending people back in waves or focusing on opening certain businesses in specific areas. We have to look at the needs of each community and figure out priorities from there. The news media will focus on states like New York and California as examples on how to move forward, and while that might be helpful, it will not work as a “one size fits all” solution. Alabama is different than those two states (thank goodness), and we need to base our thoughts and solutions around that fact.
Media Release/Alabama Congressman Robert Aderholt
