(WXYZ) — We're taking a closer look at the impact COVID-19 and the health safety orders surrounding the virus are having on Michigan's businesses.
The most recent orders include no indoor service at bars and restaurants, as well as shutting down anything that caters to large crowds.
Amanda Fisher. the Assistant State Director for National Federation of Independent Business is joining us to talk about it in the 7 UpFront segment.
She says this is a dark time, especially for restaurants.
"Unfortunately a lot of them will not survive," Fisher says. "I believe the restaurant association here in Michigan has indicated over half of restaurants will fold, and you have to keep in mind that even the big chains are owned by somebody local because they're franchised."
"It's a horrible situation and let's face it, there are no easy answers to any of this," Fisher says. "We're just disappointed that we had to go to shutting down businesses completely instead of going to find a good 'in the middle'."
"I think the uncertainty is really tough on all small business owners right now," she says. "Because nobody knows what's going to be announced. We don't get a heads up. It's hard to live with that fear of "are we going to get shut down in a couple of weeks?', 'what's gonna happen?', 'what are the new restrictions?'."
You can see the full interview in the video player above.
