NW Minnesota News

Minnesota restaurants are being prevented from doing business by new restrictions introduced by Gov. Tim Walz.

Restaurants will only be allowed to serve food outside in addition to enforcing social distancing and not having more than 50 customers at once, Business North reported. If restaurants don't have outdoor tables, then they won't be allowed to offer sit-down service. 

“While continued progress to reopen is important, we hoped the governor would take more meaningful steps today," Minnesota Chamber President Doug Loon told Business North. "We understand the focus on safety and so do businesses that have protection plans in place and are ready to open. The approach announced today doesn’t sufficiently recognize the ability of businesses – many of them small businesses – to innovate and protect employees and customers."

Loon also noted there is no end date for the restrictions. 

In addition to restricting restaurants, Walz will only allow places of worship to operate outside with 10 or less people. 

“This is a measured approach that matches the thoughtfulness and generosity of our restauranteurs, who have found creative ways to safely feed their neighbors throughout this pandemic – but making this work relies on all of us,” Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan told Business North. “Supporting your favorite businesses means following health and safety rules at all times – making an appointment or reservation, maintaining social distance, washing your hands, and wearing a mask. It also means that workers are protected if they report concerns about the health and safety practices of their workplace. That’s how we can keep each other healthy so we can continue safely turning the dial in Minnesota.”