Governor Kelly’s plan to phase in normal operations across Kansas has received varied responses from lawmakers representing Lyon County.
Senate Vice President Jeff Longbine is pleased with the overall plan, but he says times are tough for a lot of small businesses.
51st District Representative Ron Highland says he was not surprised by the governor’s plan. He says business owners are telling him they may have to close for good if things don’t improve by the possible end of Phase One on May 18 — which would negatively impact the state at a time when other business sectors are struggling.
76th District Representative Eric Smith says the plan does no favors to certain businesses, especially in the beauty sector. Smith says the state’s case numbers support reopening and it’s unreasonable to wait for a vaccine before fully returning to normal.
60th District Representative Mark Schreiber, however, believes the phased approach as announced is best for the state.
Phase One of the governor’s plan begins Monday, effectively replacing the statewide stay-home order ending Sunday but with very little change in operations — other than letting restaurants open if they can maintain six-foot spaces between people. Schreiber says a cautious approach now is best so the state doesn’t have a major shutdown this fall or winter if coronavirus comes back as health officials expect.
