SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Senate Tourism and Hospitality Committee continued talking about saving the hotel and restaurant industry.
Members discussed Senate Bill 104, which would bring much-needed relief to these hospitality businesses.
Bob Reiter, president of the Chicago Federation of Labor, said hotels typically hold large conventions that attract tourists and employ hundreds of workers. However, these venues can only allow 50 guests at a time under the current COVID-19 remedial measures.
“We cannot exist in the phase 4 limbo of Governor Pritzker and only hope that the regulations will change,” said Reiter. “We need a ramp. How do we progress gradually as the pandemic ends? Help us plan a path forward that will protect workers but allow them to get back to work. “
He also said opening large venues like McCormick Place or Navy Pier could allow these employees to get back to work. Reiter emphasized that these rooms have state-of-the-art ventilation systems and offer plenty of space to socially distance guests.
In addition, the proposed bill could allow hotels and restaurants to continue offering take-away cocktails to guests. Republican lawmakers had concerns about how the drinks would be prepared and delivered. Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) explained the rules the bill would set.
“These cocktails can only be delivered by an employee who is older than 18 years,” said Feigenholtz. “And if you read the bill, there is a long list of criteria under which the provisions for the container are.”
Feigenholtz said employees would need to put the cocktails in sealed containers safely for transportation. This means that a lid on the cup wouldn’t fly under the bill. This service would then be available until 2024.
At this point in time, lawmakers continue to emphasize that the hotel and restaurant industry will not fully recover in the next three years.
