GOVERNOR’S BRIEFING
Governor JB Pritzker was joined by Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and focused on the progress on standing-up McCormick Place as a COVID 3,000 bed alternate care center.
ALCOHOL SALES
Alcohol sales are NOT being stopped. Some malicious individual put into social media circulation a well-done fake news announcement that Illinois had announced the suspension of the sale of alcohol. IRMA, in conjunction with the Associated Beer Distributors of Illinois and the Wine and Spirits Distributors of Illinois, asked the Illinois Liquor Control Commission for an official release dispelling the rumor. You can view the release here.
RETAILERS & SOCIAL DISTANCING
Many public officials are looking for retailers who have not already done so to immediately implement as many measures as they can to encourage consumers to practice social distancing. Building upon the proactive work many of you have already done, IRMA created this best practice guidance. If you have not done so already, retailers, but particularly grocers and convenience stores, are strongly encouraged to implement some or all of these best practices as quickly as possible. You can also find this document and other valuable information on IRMA’s web page.
Additionally, a short time ago, the Illinois Department of Public Health issued a similar but not identical guidance. For example, they focus a fair amount on limiting number of people in the store, using separate entrances and exits, and focus on some food safety suggestions. IRMA strongly encourages members to review and adopt any best practices they can.
LABOR ISSUES
IRMA will be hosting a webinar this Friday, April 3rd from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Scott Cruz, a highly respected labor attorney with Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, will provide participants with a detailed overview of changes made to unemployment insurance and paid family leave and all the issues surrounding them as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. He will also answer some of your questions. As an aside, IRMA is very familiar with Mr. Cruz’s work as IRMA has utilized him on numerous occasions. Watch for an invite and plan now to participate.
ILLINOIS UPDATE
Dr. Ngozi Ezike, MD, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health announced 461 new cases in Illinois, including 8 more deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 5,057 cases, including 77 deaths, in 56 of Illinois’ 102 counties. Additional information can be found here.