Retailers are committed to working with elected leaders and law enforcement to keep our communities safe through the current COVID-19 crisis, but well-intentioned local directives are creating mass confusion and inconsistent guidelines across communities, forcing retailers to shift valuable resources and time away from existing efforts to safeguard employees and customers.
To address this, the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) and National Retail Federation (NRF) are calling on governors to preempt confusing and often ambiguous local directives that often conflict with recommendations provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
“Essential businesses that remain open are taking extraordinary steps to ensure everyone has the food, tools, and essential goods they need to weather this crisis, while doing everything they can to keep stores safe for the public,” said Brian Dodge, RILA president.
The letter sent today to state and local leaders specifically calls for governors to preempt confusing and conflicting local orders that are creating operational challenges for retailers.
“Resources from retail to law enforcement are being tested and stretched thin as the country bans together to slow the spread of COVID-19. We strongly urge governors who have taken the lead throughout this crisis to issue concise, statewide orders that create clarity for essential businesses, local governments, and law enforcement” said Dodge.
