As the government-ordered shutdowns issued in response to the Chinese coronavirus continue to devastate the state’s economy and put millions of Texans out of work, pressure on Gov. Greg Abbot to lift the restrictions he has imposed—or allowed local governments to impose—continues to grow.
On Monday, State Rep. Kyle Biedermann (R–Fredericksburg) called on Abbott to end the government-ordered shutdowns and reopen the Texas economy so citizens can get back to work. In a letter to Abbott, the state lawmaker and small-business owner noted that the hardware store he owns is succeeding because customers can purchase from him, but few other local businesses have the ability to be successful within the guidelines.
His solution: allow Texans to get back to work now.
“The longer we wait, the more damage is being done to Texans’ livelihoods,” writes Biedermann in a letter to the governor. “The government does a poor job of supporting people’s financial well-being, and we shouldn’t force them and their families to rely on the government.”
“By forcing the people of Texas into a recession, you are not allowing the people to take personal responsibility for their actions. Every job is essential in Texas,” he adds.
Today, I sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott about the need to allow small businesses to open their doors. See the letter below. #txlege pic.twitter.com/Edk7lLmAdQ
— Kyle Biedermann (@KyleBiedermann) April 20, 2020
Biedermann is the latest of a growing number of state lawmakers to call on Abbott to allow Texas businesses to open their doors.
Currently, the governor has announced no substantive easing of the restrictions. A report from the task force he formed is expected on Monday, April 27.
