Massage and chiropractic clinics provide non-emergency medical care to thousands, if not tens of thousands, of Oregonians everyday. People working in these types of wellness clinics are on the front lines of receiving and transmitting this potentially deadly Covid-19 virus that is sweeping the world. LMT's, DC's, and CA's have direct contact through touch with every patient that comes through the doors to receive treatment. These medical professionals cannot participate in social distancing with this type of work. And despite great hygiene and sanitation efforts, Covid-19 is an aerosolized virus that these clinics are not equipped to deal with safely. There are no N95 face masks in these medical facilities to keep workers safe and prevent this pandemic from spreading through normal respiration.

So far, most of these clinics are still open because they cannot afford to shut down voluntarily. If the Oregon government calls for a mandatory closure of these high risk non-essential medical facilities then the businesses will be able to close their doors and use their business insurance to negate critical losses. Furthermore, employees will be able to collect unemployment and participate in social distancing to 'flatten the curve.' By doing this, Oregon may also be able to lead the way for other states to recognize the threat to public safety that keeping these types of businesses open poses. We need to protect this special category of medical workers and their patients.

Thank you for your time and consideration.