The state has laid out plenty of rules for its phased reopening plans in recent weeks on mask wearing, social distancing and capacity, but it hasn’t cracked down on many businesses that have violated those rules.
Gov. Gina M. Raimondo in a press conference on July 29 acknowledged that the “light touch” would be reevaluated given that some businesses have taken advantage of a lack of penalties. But whether these so-called “bad actors” can be reined in with stricter penalties – and who should be making sure the rules are followed – depends on whom you ask.
Some business owners who are toeing the line are fed up, saying it’s unfair that competitors are flouting the rules seemingly without consequence. Laurie White, president of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, has heard from several such business owners, though none were willing to be interviewed for this story.
White acknowledged that the ever-changing rules of the state’s phased reopening could create confusion, but she added that the Chamber has continued to educate members and connect them with representatives from R.I. Department of Business Regulation, R.I. Commerce Corp. and other state agencies when needed.
“There are plenty of professionals out there willing to help and talk people through what the various components are,” she said.
Owners of several indoor-recreation facilities in Rhode Island have told Providence Business News they were confused – and unable to get a straight answer – on when they could reopen. Frustrated and lacking clear guidelines, Mike Hezemans, co-owner of R1 Indoor Karting LLC, opened his Lincoln go-kart business on a limited basis several weeks ago.
The North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce used the distribution of masks and other personal protective equipment to member businesses as an opportunity to increase awareness of state regulations, which were often lost amid a flood of emails and news stories, said Kristin Urbach, Chamber executive director.
While Urbach did not know of any member businesses who defied state reopening rules, she questioned the effectiveness of harsh punishments for those who had.
“They want themselves and their staff and their customers to be safe,” she said. “That’s how you get business.”
Bethany Mazza, owner of Green Ink Inc., a boutique in North Kingstown and Providence, said compliance is a matter of personal responsibility. She welcomed the spot checks from DBR at her stores – she’s had two per store so far.
Asked how she felt about the prospect of more-stringent crackdowns, including more spot checks, her only hesitation was ensuring that the visits would not disrupt shoppers as her struggling business begins to see more in-store activity.
Beyond increasing the number and frequency of drop-in inspections, Raimondo has not yet detailed how she plans to increase enforcement. If that increase relies on participation from cities and towns, at least one municipality may not take part.
The Burrillville Town Council recently passed a resolution exempting local law enforcement from enforcing any executive orders it deems “unconstitutional,” citing First Amendment rights to freedom of religion, assembly and redress of grievances.
The resolution is not intended to create a free-for-all environment for businesses; Councilman Donald A. Fox instead said it’s a starting point for a broader discussion about overreaching executive power and so-called “unfunded mandates.”
He faulted the state for sending a mixed message by a lack of enforcement on its executive orders, but he added that the responsibility for enforcement should not fall to local municipalities.
“If it’s an executive order from the governor, the governor should be prepared to enforce it and provide the funding for it,” Fox said.
Nancy Lavin is a PBN staff writer. Contact her at Lavin@PBN.com.