Rep. Richardson Encourages Small Business to Share Feedback with Ohio House Task Force

MARYSVILLE – State Representative Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) is encouraging small business owners throughout her district to share their experience regarding the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) created the Ohio 2020 Economic Recovery Task Force to begin looking at ways to lay the foundation for economic renewal in the wake of COVID-19.

“Ohio’s small businesses are on the frontlines of our economy,” said Richardson. “It’s important for local businesses in my district to share their stories with the task force as they begin making key recommendations in rebooting Ohio’s economy.”

The 24-member House task force is meeting regularly via teleconference and hearing from guest presenters on a range of issues. The meetings are streamed live on OhioChannel.org. Richardson noted that constituents can follow @OHTaskForce2020 on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

Local businesses that would like to share their story can contact the task force at Ohio2020@ohiohouse.gov with the following information:

·       Name and location of the business
·       Number of employees
·       Years in business
·       Contact information for business owners (email, phone number)
·       Brief description of the nature of the business

Additionally, businesses can submit written responses to the task force. If submitting or speaking before the task force, the panel asks businesses focus on the following points:

- If/how they are able to operate during the coronavirus.
- What kind of financial strains have been brought on by this? If they have been in business for many years, how has this been compared to other financial downturns?
- What kinds of obstacles do they see ahead of them once they are able to fully open up again?
- Any governmental roadblocks ahead that the legislature should be aware of?
- Any ideas that they might have on protocols they believe would be helpful to return to work while maintaining a level of safety to provide confidence to their customers?

“The hardworking people in Union and Marion counties deserve to have their voices heard,” said Richardson. “I look forward to hearing their feedback on how Ohio can emerge from this crisis stronger than before.”