On Friday, February 19th, the Small Business Association of Michigan sent a joint letter to Governor Whitmer urging her to consider allowing offices to reopen. Joining us in this effort: Detroit Regional Chamber, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Grand Rapids Chamber, and the Michigan Manufacturers Association.
From Grand Rapids to Lansing and Detroit, empty office buildings have a damaging impact not only on productivity, innovation, collaboration and mental health, but also has put an incredible strain on our communities. Small businesses that depend on local workforce are losing business, in danger of closing, or already shuttered.
Offices are some of the most controlled, low-risk environments in our state. Masks can be worn whenever employees are not in a private space. Cleaning methods, social distancing and daily health checks can be implemented in an employer-monitored setting and our employers are prepared.
Allowing employees to return to the office is safe, and represents a key component to Michigan’s recovery.