Editorial – Covid-19 Rules Stacked Against Small Business

We understand that our health departments and policymakers have to act to protect public safety in the middle of the Coronavirus Pandemic. That is not the issue. What is a problem, however, is that the rules seem to be written to favor the large corporations over the small mom and pop stores that create the great majority of jobs.

One of our friends went to St. Joseph Saturday to do some shopping at Lowe’s, a large corporate chain. Not only was it insanely busy, with hundreds of people in, there were around 20 people standing at the paint counter, while another load of people were standing at the registers. Social distancing was not being observed.

They stated, and we agree, that that it was not fair that large corporate chains are allowed to fully operate, while restaurants can only offer carryout. They stated, and we agree, that the virus is more likely to spread in a crowded place like Lowe’s, with hundreds of people crammed into their store, than a local restaurant that has the capability of enforcing social distancing guidelines while still making enough to get by.

Why are small businesses like Snakebite, Country Corners, Oldtowne Cafe, Tuck Point Bar & Grill, Bear’s Lodge, Vintage Nest, Firehouse 54, and other such establishments forced to run on life support?

This is the sort of rulemaking that undermines public confidence in government. We don’t agree with the protests springing up around the country demanding that governors reopen the economy. We have to ensure that the virus is no longer spreading, that treatments are available, and hospitals are able to handle any spikes in Coronavirus cases that may arise. However, now that we read this post, we understand that they have a point. If we’re going to make rules enforcing social distancing, they have to apply to everyone.

Millions of jobs are being lost, and the SBA has just run out of money to lend to small businesses. These rules are a slap in the face.