As far as some businesses go, there have been both winners and losers with the restrictions put into place because of the coronavirus pandemic. That has led to pushback from some small businesses that are not considered “essential.” In contrast, larger retailers that have both essential and non-essential products for sale are allowed to remain open.
In an appearance on “The Jeff Poor Show” on Wednesday, State Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest) agreed with that notion, noting the toll it was taking on Alabama’s small businesses.
He said he agreed with a point State Sen. Tom Whatley (R-Auburn) had made earlier in the week regarding Alabama’s rural small businesses. However, he was unsure of a remedy for small businesses.
“I certainly agree with Senator Whatley — our small businesses are being destroyed,” Whitt said. “For instance, I had a customer call me and a constituent call regarding they have a nursery. Well, their nursery stocks tomato plants, pepper plants — things like that. It is gardening time, yet they were shuttered. When I went through Lowe’s drive-thru to look at their parking lot — what are people buying? Well, they are getting ready to plant their garden. So yes, it puts them at a deep disadvantage, and it is hurtful to our economy. I wish I knew a better answer. I just simply don’t know one at this time.”
“But yes, they have an advantage,” he continued. “So many people in those stores — maybe they should start limiting them to 25% occupancy of the store and sell only the essential items. We don’t need people in there shopping for dresses or whatever at Walmart or Target. They need to go in there and get essential items or prescriptions filled, and move on about their business.”
@Jeff_Poor is a graduate of Auburn University, the editor of Breitbart TV, a columnist for Mobile’s Lagniappe Weekly and host of Huntsville’s “The Jeff Poor Show” from 2-5 p.m. on WVNN.
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