Mohave Today

Gov. Doug Ducey’s decision to extend the executive stay-at-home order to mid-May has elected officials concerned for small businesses and vulnerable citizens.

At a special Mohave County Board of Supervisors meeting, the officials voiced their concerns.

The COVID-19 restrictions discriminate against certain Arizona businesses, according to a letter drafted primarily by District 5 Rep. Leo Biasiucci and signed by three local lawmakers.

“The stay-at-home order had flaws from the beginning because it allowed for government to pick winners and losers and the biggest loser has been the small businesses,” the letter states.

Supervisor Hildy Angius said she is one of the signees. 

“How do we justify allowing hundreds of people to be in Walmart, but a salon with three customers must be closed. Explain to me why someone can buy jewelry at Sam’s Club or Target, but a small jewelry store is not deemed essential and must be closed,” the letter states. 

Angius and member Ron Gould held that Mohave County should create a list of restrictions and guidelines for businesses as they begin to reopen.

“I am disappointed that he [Ducey] essentially pushed this out another two weeks and I’m concerned that our folks will go another two weeks without being able to make a living,” Gould said. 

Supervisors Gary Watson and Buster Johnson erred on the side of caution, in support of following the governor’s extended order.

“Americans are not going to tolerate a lockdown that’s not tight enough to stop the spread of the virus,” Gould said.

Using the Biasiucci letter, the board directed staff to prepare a letter of position to send to Ducey and state lawmakers.

The letter of position will potentially be adopted for distributing after review and possible amendment.