Gov. Cooper to announce Phase 1 extension or Phase 2 implementation soon
The Boiler Room is one example of a local restaurant who closed its doors at the beginning of the pandemic. State leaders differ on how quickly inside dining should return.
On Monday, Gov. Cooper stated, “Our Phase 1 Executive Order runs through this Friday, but as I’ve said – we are continuing to monitor the data and the metrics that we've laid out for our state. We will ease restrictions and move to Phase 2 only if we are headed in the right direction with our data.”
Rep. Chris Humphrey
R - Lenoir, Pitt
Senate Leader Phil Berger recently called on Gov. Roy Cooper to grant counties local flexibility to reopen restaurants at reduced capacity, especially for outdoor seating areas. These two steps alone could help thousands of North Carolinian residents who are now going broke to get back on their feet.
“I agree with Senator Berger,” said Rep. Chris Humphrey. “I believe it's time to find a way to allow local businesses such as salons and restaurants to open in a safe manner.”
One of the core issues that small business owners have with the Stay at Home order is the inability to generate revenue while their businesses are forced to remain closed. Not all qualify for the loans or programs backed by the government.
“The Governor's stay at home orders were always about preventing our healthcare system from being overrun. They were never about stopping death. We know we can't stop death from disease,” said Senator Jim Perry.
Based on the in-house March 31 revenue forecast, North Carolina can anticipate a greater than $370 million shortfall in the fiscal year 2021. With record numbers applying for unemployment, the budget will be further stretched.
Sen. Jim Perry
R - Lenoir, Wayne
“The majority of states in our region have found a methodical way. In addition, these industries have been prohibited to open, yet they are unable to access promised unemployment benefits in a timely manner. This is a failure when you plan to expand capacity in the Department of Employment Security, yet benefits still can't be accessed,” said Humphrey.
North Carolina faces many of the same problems related to the pandemic as other states. The rate of unemployment will continue to rise if local businesses remain closed. Local businesses are doing what they can to utilize online sales, delivery, and gift cards to be utilized when the business or restaurant is reopened.
Gov. Cooper is expected to announce his plans to move into Phase 2 or to extend Phase 1 in the next day or two.
