Dakota Times

Sen. Andrew Matthews (R-Princeton) issued a statement against threats to businesses owners trying to reopen while Gov. Tim Walz keeps the state shutdown. 

Minnesota has been shutdown for about two months and under Walz's orders, many businesses are facing to be closed permanently if they are not allowed to fully reopen soon, according to a press release from the Minnesota State Republican Caucus. 

One business owner, Kris Schiffler, wanted to reopen before June 1, but has received threats of fines if he opened his business, Shady's Hometown Tavern, earlier than allowed. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison threatened Schiffler with the fines and told him to follow state plans. 

“One of Mr. Schiffler’s six establishments is in Rice, which is a part of my district. I do not appreciate the threats of copious fines or imprisonment being leveled at him or any other constituent businesses from the Attorney General’s Office," Matthews said in response to the threats. "These business owners and their employees have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Punishment for trying to maintain a livelihood is in direct opposition to those values.”