BOSTON, Mass. (Dec. 22, 2020) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), which represents thousands of small businesses in the state, issued the following statement from NFIB State Director Christopher Carlozzi in response to Governor Charlie Baker’s announcement that Massachusetts will roll back capacity limits to 25% for most industries in the state.
“It is unfortunate that small businesses that have followed the rules and dutifully adhered to all state guidelines are now forced to reduce their capacity. These businesses have overcome the odds and survived despite facing a months-long shutdown, fewer customers, increased restrictions, and higher operating costs, but the new capacity limits may result in their doors shutting permanently.
“The new restrictions will hit struggling restaurants the hardest, an industry already ravaged by the pandemic. Right now, one in four small businesses fear their businesses will not survive the pandemic and more stringent restrictions only increase the likelihood of permanent closure.”
