March 1, 2021
Dear Governor Whitmer:
Our organizations are encouraged by the data that continues to be shared across Michigan. Positivity rates are trending in the right direction and vaccines are reaching more Michiganders every day.
It is no secret that some industries, based on the sheer nature of their industries, have been impacted more than others. Our restaurant industry has fallen into this category and continues to face barriers to remaining in business. Our organizations support the concept of a graduated reopening of restaurants that is science-based and data-driven.
Our organizations’ memberships are made up of all industry types, including restaurants and health systems, and we continue to address the pandemic with these guiding principles as we work together in our response and recovery efforts:
1. Businesses need clarity, consistency, and transparency on decisions made
2. All industries should be allowed to open with proper safety protocols
3. We must be precise on how we control outbreaks
4. Continue to utilize best practices- informed by data- on ways to protect our citizens
We continue to pledge partnership with you, your Administration, and the Legislature, to find solutions that protect lives and livelihoods. Thank you for your leadership in addressing the impact of COVID-19 on our businesses, on our citizens, and on Michigan as a whole. We appreciate your consideration, and we look forward to continuing to partner with you as we recover.
