Wolf Continues His Attack on Small Businesses, Says Knowles

5/8/2020

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jerry Knowles (R-Berks/Carbon/Schuylkill) today issued the following statement in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s reopening announcement that did not include counties in the 124th District:

“Almost 2 million Pennsylvanians are out of work because various businesses are not permitted to operate. Businesses have been backed into a corner. Some may defy the governor’s executive order and open operations or lose everything.

“During his press conference today, Wolf encouraged people to shop at one larger store rather than purchase items at smaller establishments that may not have the items they want to purchase. This is an attack on small businesses! He is telling people to shop at big box stores ONLY. What is the governor thinking?

“I am so frustrated and disappointed. Wolf tells you he supports small business, but do not let him fool you. His words and actions today – and throughout this crisis – clearly show his true feelings toward small businesses when he tells people to spend money at only major establishments.

“I have difficulty understanding how he can move the city of Pittsburgh from the ‘red phase’ to the ‘yellow phase,’ but does not give consideration to reopening certain portions of the 124th District. Remember, no one is required to open his or her business; it would be an individual choice.

“I am certain that the people and businesses that I represent have the intelligence and the common sense to take the necessary precautions to open and shop safely. It is their constitutional right!

“Does Gov. Wolf understand that our economy is tanking? Pennsylvanians need to work to feed their families. Without business, you don’t have workers and you don’t have an economy.”

Representative Jerry Knowles
124th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives