State Representative Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) released the following statement following Governor Pritzker’s new executive order effective May 1:
“The governor’s modified executive order is a small step in the right direction. We still need a plan that addresses the regional differences to get Illinois’ economy up and running. We now know he is listening to our concerns and has made concessions on some things we have pushed for. The opening of golf courses, state parks and lakes, and permitting certain elective surgeries along with allowing delivery and pick-up from previously deemed non-essential businesses is encouraging. This is only a beginning and doesn’t address the need to regionalize the lifting of more restrictions.
I will continue to advocate for small businesses, including our service industry, to provide avenues to help them stay in business. I encourage Governor Pritzker to continue working with the legislature to expand the list of businesses permitted to safely reopen Illinois. It is possible to take Covid-19 seriously, without causing further harm to our economy.”