GOP Makes Case for Regional Reopening of State

Chippewa Falls – Earlier today, State Representatives Rob Summerfield (R-Bloomer), Jesse James (R-Altoona), and Treig Pronschinske (R-Mondovi), and State Senator Kathy Bernier (R-Chippewa Falls), held a press conference to express their support for a regional reopening of Wisconsin’s economy. They were joined by several local business leaders who shared personal stories of how the Safer-at-Home order has impacted them.

“This Safer-at-Home order has taken its course. I am not satisfied with the science and data to justify this order lasting any longer. I have people calling me and crying, asking me to do anything I can to help them get back to work! It is time we open Wisconsin. We as Wisconsinites can open up in a safe, and responsible manner while protecting our vulnerable, just as we have been doing. If our neighboring states can do it, we can too!” said Representative James.

Rep. Pronschinske added, “From hearing from many of my constituents, their ultimate goal is to get back to their normal lives as quickly and safely as possible.  These people need an avenue to go back to work to be able to take care of their families and communities.  Using this one size fits all approach for opening the state is irresponsible and doesn’t work for this situation or many other issues the legislature takes up.”

“Wisconsin is a diverse state. Every part is different, with their own unique characteristics and challenges. This is why a one size fits all approach will hurt more people than it will help. We need to put these elements into context; Northwestern Wisconsin has a small percentage of the total cases in the state, a large hospital bed capacity, and an informed population who are able to make education decisions about what works best for them and the people they come into contact with. Given these considerations, a regional approach just makes sense,” said State Senator Kathy Bernier.

“Firstly, I would like to thank all the Wisconsinites who have contacted our offices over the past few weeks. The press conference today provided an opportunity for some of these individuals to make their voices heard. I think it’s clear we need to come together as a state to rationally and regionally work towards safely reopening our economy,” Representative Summerfield concluded.

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