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TN Politics: Fines (Finally?) for COVID Violators

Caleb Suggs/WKNO

Shelby County Commissioners this week introduced a new ordinance that would fine businesses $50 per violation of COVID-19 restrictions related to masking, social distancing and capacity. While it would give the health department some teeth in the fight to stop the spread, some still question whether fines will be useful. Political analyst Otis Sanford tells us "Money Talks."

Also this week, teachers in the Shelby County Schools district haveoverwhelmingly voiced opposition to returning to classrooms in January. Shelby County Superintendent Joris Ray must weigh the risks with the pressure from some parents to get kids back in class. 

Finally, this week the City of Memphis says that about a quarter of sanitation workers are now off the job due to the coronavirus. As government considers stronger measures for private business, should it also have higher standards for itself? 

Reporting from the gates of Graceland to the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, Christopher has covered Memphis news, arts, culture and politics for more than 20 years in print and on the radio. He is currently WKNO's News Director and Senior Producer at the University of Memphis' Institute for Public Service Reporting. Join his conversations about the Memphis arts scene on the WKNO Culture Desk Facebook page.