FARGO (KFGO) – Some North Dakota lawmakers are opposed to Gov. Doug Burgum’s decision to extend business closures through April 30.
In a letter to Burgum, the 13 lawmakers say that it’s “imperative” for North Dakota businesses to be allowed to re-open, or more of them will be lost and more people will lose their jobs.
State Rep. Rick Becker, a physician, says the state is meeting its goal of slowing the spread and keeping enough hospital open for COVID-19 patients.
“It’s going to go through our communities anyway. The only question is ‘how quickly?’ Once we accept that concept, we realize that having a flatter curve does not save lives. It saves lives only to the degree that we are keeping the curve below medical threshold.”
“We’re trying to protect at-risk (patients) by isolating everyone. What we need to do is protect the at-risk by isolating and assisting the people that are at risk. Those who aren’t at-risk should go about their normal daily lives” Becker said.
Burgum originally ordered bars, dine-in restaurants, fitness centers and personal care facilities to remain closed until Monday, April 20.
Restaurant delivery and curbside service is still allowed.
Comments