On May 26, the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey (CCSNJ) testified before the Senate Fiscal Recovery Strategists Committee on the significant challenges small businesses are facing as the state enters the third full month of business shutdowns. The CCSNJ was proud to represent the South Jersey business community during the hearing, which focused on the impact that COVID-19 has had on small retailers, salons and car dealerships, among others. CCSNJ member Frank Rizzieri, owner of Rizzieri Salons & Spas and the Rizzieri Aveda School also provided remarks during the two hour hearing.

In her testimony, Christina M. Renna, President & CEO noted that without question, the health and safety of all New Jersey residents must remain the priority as businesses and residents head into the summer months. However, she stated that given the progress made in flattening the curve and significant decreases in COVID-19 hospitalization rates, the state’s economy can no longer remain closed.

 

Ms. Renna testified that reopening the state’s small retailers and other businesses that encompass a town’s “Main Street” is the logical first step to any economic recovery. She went on to offer four key items that must be provided to see a smart and safe economic reopening:

 

The CCSNJ looks forward to working with the legislature to implement the CCSNJ's Economic Reopening and Recovery Plan for South Jersey, which is derived from the comprehensive feedback of more than 100 South Jersey business owners. The plan puts forward a staggered, regional reopening approach that prioritizes certain areas in South Jersey and low-risk industries for reopening as quickly and safely as possible. 

 

 

Please reach out to Hilary Chebra, Manager, Government Affairs at hchebra@chambersnj.com if you have any questions.