Harkins praises governor’s decision to reopen some jobs
Rep. Patrick J. Harkins April 20, 2020 | 1:49 PM
ERIE, April 20 – State Rep. Pat Harkins, D-Erie, lauded Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement today that the state will be reopening online auto sales later today and some construction jobs May 8, saying it will bring welcome relief to some workers and small business owners.
“The governor’s decision today gives some of our skilled workers the green light to return to the job,” said Harkins, who is Democratic chairman of the House Labor and Industry Committee. “In the midst of this pandemic, our workers and small business owners understand the importance of staying safe, but they are also frustrated and believe that there are many jobs, such as construction jobs, that can be performed without increasing the risk of exposure.
“We have been pushing to persuade the governor to recognize this and reopen those jobs that will not endanger workers, and the governor has listened. After sharing their frustration, it’s great to be able to share some good news.
“The decision to allow online auto sales is another sound move. I have been working closely with local dealership owners like Matt Clark to get this moving. Their efforts, along with the statewide auto dealers’ association, produced the sensible solution of allowing consumers to teleshop online for vehicles.
“These are just the first steps, but they’re steps in the right direction. I’ll continue working to be sure that our workers – their safety, their families, and their jobs – are the top priorities during these challenging times.”