NFIB State Director Nathan Humphrey says Georgia’s leading small business advocacy organization supports Senate Bill 200, state Sen. Jason Anavitarte’s proposal for protecting an owner’s right to remain open during a pandemic or other health emergency if the business abides by all safety precautions issued by state or local government.

“This is commonsense legislation that would protect people’s health while ensuring that businesses that follow the rules can remain open and avoid layoffs or having to close for good,” Humphrey said. “Governor Kemp is committed to keeping Georgia’s economy up and running, and small businesses have shown tremendous flexibility when it comes to adapting to the pandemic, but owners need a clear pathway to staying open and avoid layoffs if at all possible.

“Organizations that ignore the rules should be held accountable, but as long as the government can provide a clear pathway so they can remain open or open safely, they should be allowed to do so,” Humphrey said. “We look forward to working with Senator Anavitarte and legislative leaders to advance this much-needed legislation.”