Wisconsin takes small steps to reopen the economy

By John Schulze, ABC of Wisconsin Director of Legal & Government Relations

ABC’s government affairs team has successfully advocated that construction be deemed an essential service, and has shifted gears to advocate for the reopening of Wisconsin businesses and igniting the construction industry economy post-pandemic.

In response to public protests, pushback from local officials, and a Wisconsin Supreme Court lawsuit, Gov. Tony Evers continues to take steps to re-open the Wisconsin economy.  Effective Monday, May 11, Evers’ most recent Executive Order #36 allows the following:

• Stand-alone or strip-mall based retail stores may offer in-person shopping for up to five customers while maintaining required social distancing practices:

• The number of staff is restricted to what is strictly necessary.
• If a store cannot maintain social distancing with 5 customers in the store, it will need to lower the number of customers allowed in at a time.
• Establish a line outside the store to control entry with markings so customers know where to stand to ensure social distancing, or allow customers to wait in their vehicles and be notified via text when they may enter.

• Drive-in theaters to operate with the following restrictions:

• No outdoor seating.
• Patrons must remain in their vehicles at all times except to purchase food or drink or use the restroom.
• To the extent possible, reservations and payments should be made in advance online or over the phone.