State Sen. Donald DeWitte (R-St Charles) has joined his Senate Republican colleagues to co-sponsor new legislation that creates commonsense protocols for businesses to resume operations safely and responsibly.
Senate Bill 3993 would require the Illinois Department of Public Health to establish and publish Safe Place Business protocols by May 30.
“For several weeks, we have witnessed widespread economic damage being inflicted on local and state economies. Employers across the 33rd District have continued to reach out to my office, sharing their stories and voicing their concerns about the widespread consequences this pandemic and the Governor’s strict reopening procedures have had on their places of business,” said Sen. DeWitte. “While I can recognize that this was an unprecedented situation that required aggressive and swift action, it’s time to provide our business community the tools and guidelines needed to allow them to safely and efficiently resume operations.”
The Safe Place of Business protocols will include:
- Customer density limits based on business facilities’ square footage and appropriate social distancing;
- Face covering requirements for employees; and
- Regular cleaning regimens.
“These are commonsense protocols that can be realistically put in place and will keep both employees and customers safe,” said Sen. DeWitte. “This legislation provides our struggling small businesses much-needed flexibility and a light at the end of this dark tunnel.”
Senate Bill 3993 would also require the General Assembly’s approval for any future extension of the Governor’s original disaster proclamation.
“In recent days, the Governor has showed flexibility and willingness to work with the legislative branch to adjust his reopening plan. I hope he continues that good will and lends his support to this plan,” said Sen. DeWitte.