A Republican state senator from Pine City, Minnesota, delivered stern words of objection after Gov. Tim Walz Monday called for the closure of bars and restaurants for dine-in customers in the state in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

“Governor Walz’s decision to close bars and restaurants seems too aggressive," Sen. Jason Rarick said in a statement. "This course of action was not agreed upon by both legislative bodies and the Governor’s office. He holds executive powers in times of emergency, but this decision directly and deeply impacts the lives of business owners and employees. I still believe people can be trusted to do what is best without Government dictating every step that must be taken.”

Walz's executive order also included theaters, museums, gyms, community clubs, and other areas where community transmission could occur. As Forum News Service's Dana Ferguson reported, Walz said taking the action to close the gathering spaces between Tuesday, March 17 at 5 p.m. and March 27 could help limit new cases. Grocery stores and pharmacies were set to remain open.

“For us in Minnesota, I’m going to ask once again, we need folks’ cooperation,” Walz said. “We need to stop congregating, we’re going to close the bars, we’re going to close the restaurants, we’re going to close the places where we gather.”

Take-out, pickup and delivery food options could continue, Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said.

As a public service, we’ve opened this Opinion to everyone regardless of subscription status.