Commentary: Costs of the Pause are all too easy to see
Chris Douglas
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Chris Douglas is an economist at the University of Michigan-Flint and member of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy s Board of Scholars. He is also the author of The Costs of Michigan s Second Lockdown.
While the full ramifications of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer s pandemic policies remain unknown, it is possible to estimate some of the costs.
Recent employment data from the federal government shows that the second lockdown that started in November, the Pause to Save Lives, led to significant job losses in the restaurant and bar industry. For the two-and-a-half months the state banned indoor dining, more than 60,000 people lost their jobs, by far the largest decline among Midwestern states.
Today
Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A shower of rain or wet snow possible. Low 34F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph..
Tonight
Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A shower of rain or wet snow possible. Low 34F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Updated: April 14, 2021 @ 6:42 pm
Survey: 5,600 Restaurants/850 Hotels in Michigan May Close Due to COVID-19 Restrictions
The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association (MRLA) in Lansing today released data on the economic impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry throughout the state.
A survey by the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association shows 5,600 restaurants and 850 hotels could close in Michigan due to the COVID-19 pandemic. // Stock photo
The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association (MRLA) in Lansing today released data on the economic impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry throughout the state.
Based on surveys conducted in conjunction with the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association, results revealed many restaurants and hotels will close without additional relief.