The Baker administration sought to give the economy some parameters ahead of the reopening of the economy next week. However, there are still too many unanswered questions for at least one prominent business group.
Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Issued a policy brief On Wednesday afternoon, Governor Charlie Baker’s planned reopening on Monday points out some important details that members still want to embody. The details revolve around medical indicators, statewide testing, childcare and public transportation.
Baker closed a non-essential workplace in March to stop the epidemic of COVID-19, and his administration is working with the task force of business leaders and civil servants to draft a resumption plan in time for Monday.
Last week, the Chamber of Commerce raised concerns that companies need to address certain key issues as soon as possible in order to prepare. These issues included access to virus and antibody tests, availability of childcare, and public transport reliability and safety.
On Monday, Baker provided some basic protocols for companies planning to reopen, including the need for masks at work and the 6-foot distance between colleagues. But the latest policy summary of the Chamber of Commerce, issued two days after the meeting Baker presentation, Some business leaders have revealed that they believe important details are still missing.
For example, Baker said he expects a gradual four-step restart, starting with businesses that have less direct contact with outsiders. But the Chamber of Commerce says governments need to share accurate medical benchmarks that will trigger their respective continued deregulation.
Massachusetts has become the leader in coronavirus testing, but the hospital wants to give a clear plan for how virus and antibody testing will be available “anytime, anyone.”
Also, members of the Chamber of Commerce are still waiting for more information on childcare. Schools and daycare centers for non-essential workers will be closed until the end of June, but Baker may allow early reopening of some daycare centers. (Baker has already allowed many centers to remain open, but only to help essential workers who otherwise would not get coverage.)
Among other things, Congress is pushing the administration for a plan to use a new infusion of $ 45 million from the Federal CARES Act, which is supposed to be used for parenting.
John Chest [email protected].. Follow him on Twitter @jonchesto..
