BREAKING: New Mexico County Refuses to Enforce Governor’s Health Orders, Tells Business Owners It’s Their Decision Whether to Open

New Mexico’s state government has yet to significantly roll back its lockdown order, but that’s not stopping Lea County.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has taken some steps to relax the COVID-19 response in her state, like allowing restaurants to serve guests at 25% capacity, but businesses considered to be recreational or “close contact” (barbershops and salons, for example) are still ordered to stay closed.

Lea County Manager Mike Gallagher is having none of that bullsh*t.

“Several people have asked me when will Lea County open up for business? sic My answer is businesses will open when a business owner decides to open. It has always been the decision of a business owner to close or to open. The county will not stand in their way.”

Huh. Government officials just trusting people to make the right decision for themselves. Who’s ever heard of such a crazy thing?

Of course, Lea County isn’t exempt from state regulations, which means they can still definitely get in trouble with officials at the state level. Gallagher is very clear about that– but he’s also clear about other expectations.

“If you wish to wear a mask, then wear a mask. Please do not try to shame others that do not wear one. If you prefer not to wear a mask, then don’t wear a mask. Please do not criticize those that do wear one,” he said. “You decide what you think is best for your business, for your family, for your employees, and for your customers. Along with being respectful to others, let’s support businesses and avoid snitching on them to the state.”

In other words, you do you, but always remember our national policy: Snitches get stitches.

“If you open your business, there may be consequences with the New Mexico State Police, and as you know, there will definitely be consequences if you decide to keep your business closed,” Gallagher said. “It’s up to you to stay closed or to open.”

I admit I’m comforted by this return to good old-fashioned American values. Free markets, individual liberty, and no snitching. Smells like freedom to me.