Ohio Senate Committees State Senator 1 Capitol Square Columbus, Ohio 43215 Government Oversight & Reform, Vice Chair Finance—Primary/Secondary Education Subcommittee Education Judiciary Energy & Public Utilities Rules and reference (614) 466-7584 Matt Huffman Majority Floor Leader 12th District To: Governor DeWine Lieutenant Governor Husted From: Senator Matt Huffman Date: April 9, 2020 Re: Reopening of Businesses Dear Governor DeWine, I am writing to ask you to consider the reopening of business activity in west central Ohio. Since the outset of the coronavirus, less densely populated areas of the state have not been affected in the same way as the rest of the state. Many counties have had very few or no cases of COVID19. Also, of those who have been hospitalized, many had already suffered from other severe chronic health situations. Although I’m sure you are aware, I think it must be stated that many small business owners have no income while closed. Many employees who go on unemployment will be receiving more money from the state and federal unemployment benefits than they were while working. Additionally, those working in most positions in government, by and large, continue to receive their paychecks. Please consider lifting the ban on a date specific and as soon as possible for businesses in west central Ohio. Regards, Matt Huffman