Last week, the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee heard from lawmakers about a Republican-backed bill that would reverse fines and penalties for businesses who violated emergency orders during the coronavirus pandemic.

Rep. Andrew Prout, of Hudson, told the committee eight businesses had been fined a total of $10,000, to date. The legislation would refund those monies and reverse any other penalties, once the state of emergency is officially lifted by Gov. Chris Sununu.

“I think a lot of people feel like this all came at them fast, they don’t fully understand it, and even with the best intentions, they may get caught up in this, and that’s a terrible way to operate,” Prout told the Associated Press. “That’s why so many businesses, even the ones that have not been impacted, are reaching out and liking this bill, because it’s more of a safety net. If they do get targeted by enforcement action, at least it’s temporary and they know they can move on once this pandemic has passed.”

While Prout is correct, all of this did come about quickly, businesses were given the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns to a task force of lawmakers and business leaders charged with creating regulations to safeguard the public during the outbreak.

To say now that any previous – and future – violators of the rules should ultimately be forgiven is absolutely ridiculous.

Regulations were put in place for the protection of the public, and simply wiping away fines and penalties is a slap in the face to us all, especially those who were infected with the virus in October at a local eatery who violated these rules.

Don’t get me wrong, I have all of the sympathy in the world and will do everything in my own power to support and assist all local businesses and business owners, but consequences are consequences – especially during a pandemic.

While this may sound doom and gloom – and morbid – how would you feel if one of your loved ones died after contracting COVID-19 while patronizing a business that was breaking lawfully established rules meant to protect the public? I think the answer to that question is rather obvious.

While Prout’s – and other lawmakers’ – hearts certainly are in the right place, rules are put in place for a reason, and consequences for breaking those rules must remain in place.

Publisher and Editor Matthew Burdette may be reached at 603-594-1240 or mburdette@nashuatelegraph.com. Follow him on Twitter @Telegraph_mattb.