States reopening important for return to pre-pandemic financial system and livelihoods
Delayed reopening states must recognize that they are at a competitive disadvantage compared to those that are open to business, which requires targeted efforts to encourage the safe return of business and leisure travelers.
- The lifting of COVID restrictions in several of the largest US states is removing critical barriers
- The ability to gather together safely for business purposes has never been more important to economic recovery.
- Companies that continue to restrict business travel will delay their own economic recovery.
The President and CEO of the US Travel Association, Roger Dow, made the following statement:
“The lifting of COVID restrictions in several of the largest US states is removing critical barriers to the return of our economies and livelihoods before the pandemic.
“States that are late in reopening need to recognize that they are at a competitive disadvantage compared to those that are open to business and require targeted efforts to encourage the safe return of business and leisure travelers. Likewise, corporations will continue to restrict business travel and attendance at face-to-face professional meetings and events, delaying their own economic recovery and giving their competitors an advantage.
“In-person professional meetings and events that support business growth and provide invaluable relationship building opportunities are slow to return due to confusing and conflicting guidelines. But a new evidence-based analysis from Ohio State University public health scientists clears any uncertainty and shows these meetings can now be safely held.
“After the pandemic, the ability to gather safely for business purposes has never been more important to economic recovery. Employers and employees alike benefit from face-to-face meetings. I urge business leaders across the country to look to the experts and lead the way with confidence to revitalize business through business travel and attending professionally organized events. “
