COLUMBUS – Reaction is mixed to Republican Gov. Mike DeWine’s plan to reopen workplaces and businesses around Ohio after a six-week shutdown due to the coronavirus.
That timeline is too fast for some and not fast enough for others.
Criticism came from both sides of the aisle in the Ohio House of Representatives where majority Republicans released an “Open Ohio” plan that urges more aggressive action, according to a report in The Columbus Dispatch.
Speaker Larry Householder released a statement saying that lawmakers felt “disrespected” at not having more input in the administration’s decision.
The House Democratic Caucus, meanwhile, called their alternative plan “A Responsible Restart for Ohio” and called for caution.
They favored following federal guidelines to maintain social distancing until there are 14 consecutive days of decreasing infection rates before starting the reopening process.
“While Ohioans have successfully flattened the curve by staying home, there is a very real risk for a second spike if we are not cautious moving forward. There is proof that countries who have not put in place adequate procedures have found themselves in a second surge where illness and deaths spiked,” Minority Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) said.
Sykes advocated increased testing and contact tracing and called for plans to assist small businesses and parents who are strapped for childcare, and protections for workers.
While not criticizing the plan, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, a Democrat, also called for a cautious approach and promised a plan for the city would be released Tuesday.
“As we move forward in safely opening our community, we will continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19. We all have a role to play in keeping our community safe, and I ask all Columbus residents to continue to do their part and act responsibly,” Ginther said.
DeWine’s office released a chorus of support from business and civic organizations statewide.
From the beginning, Ohio has been a leader in its response to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a model for the entire nation. The Columbus Partnership looks forward to continuing to work together with Governor DeWine and leaders across the state to protect both health and the economy.” -Columbus Partnership
“For many businesses in Ohio, the staged reopening of commerce beginning May 1 through May 12 is a relief. We appreciate that the DeWine Administration listened to the business community as well as relevant experts in establishing the required safety protocols.” -Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, National Federation of Independent Businesses Ohio Chapter Ohio Farm Bureau
“We commend the governor and his administration for collaborating with the health care community to resume elective surgeries and procedures. Ohio hospitals are safe places to receive care. No one should hesitate to present to their community hospital for services that are needed.” -Mike Abrams, president and CEO, Ohio Hospital Association
“The decisions being made by the Governor reflect the difficult choices in balancing the potential health consequences of reengaging Ohio’s economy with the realities that the prolonged interruption of economic activity will have on our state and our communities.” – Ohio Municipal League
“We applaud Governor DeWine as he institutes continued critical safety measures in our stores as well as other establishments as they begin to open.” – Ohio Grocers Association
“The Administration’s phase-in plan to reopen the economy responsibly balances the state’s economic needs while prioritizing the health and safety of all Ohioans.” -Paul Mercer, president, Ohio Credit Union League