LANSING, Mich. – After Governor Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon announced a revised Epidemic Order that still requires bars and restaurants to remain closed for indoor service until January 15, officials with the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association say many businesses won’t be closing just for another month, but closing permanently.
“Those in our industry are feeling a number of different things after the announcement. Some are angry, some are disappointed and some feel completely hopeless,” said MLBA Executive Director Scott Ellis. “With COVID-related numbers trending down, we thought it was time to give our bars and restaurants a break. We do not understand why the hospitality industry has been singled out, while trampoline parks and other entertainment facilities are allowed to open.”
Ellis says bar and restaurant owners across the state are desperate for good news. A recent survey from the MLBA shows that on average, bar owners are facing $28,000 per month in expenses, while losing out on $48,000 in potential revenue per month.
“From state data gathered prior to the most recent MDHHS closure, we know that bars and restaurants were not a problem industry in terms of contributing to the spread of the virus,” Ellis said. “Our industry stepped up to take all of the necessary precautions in order to remain open and keep their employees and patrons safe.””
The MLBA is urging state lawmakers to prioritize the hospitality industry in its own relief package that is under consideration.
Ellis said. “They need to come together to finalize these plans on Monday and save this industry.”
“This is going to be a difficult holiday season for those who have been out of work for months on end, at no fault of their own,” Ellis said.
