Pennsylvania’s waiver system for businesses who wish to stay open during the coronavirus shutdown should be more transparent, according to state Sen. David Argall.

Argall, a Schuylkill County Republican, joined colleagues this week in urging Governor Tom Wolf’s administration to release a list of businesses granted waivers, and those who were denied.

He was motivated after hearing of businesses who were closed down while a competitor was allowed to remain open.

“I think we all understand the governor is in a very difficult position, but there is no reason why he should continue to refuse to publicize the list of which employers can be open and which employers he has closed down,” Argall said.

Companies who were deemed non-life-sustaining by the Department of Community and Economic Development had until Friday to submit waivers to reopen.

Argall said he is not opposed to the governor’s decision to shut down non-essential businesses to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

But he said the list of businesses granted waivers should be a public document to ensure fairness in the process.

“I believe once the list is a public document, we can all work together to make this a better process,” he said.

Other legislators have also urged DCED and the Wolf Administration to release the list.

State Sen. Mike Regan, a Cumberland County Republican, wrote an op-ed this week arguing for more transparency.

Regan said he understands the reasons for the governor’s order, but he wants to ensure it doesn’t produce unintended negative effects.

“Decisions need to be made consistently and transparently to reduce those negative impacts, just as we are all working to reduce the spread of the virus.

The legislators are particularly concerned about construction, which was deemed non-life-sustaining in Pennsylvania but has continued in other states.

Argall said he believes construction workers can continue their work without risking spreading the virus.

“A guy running a bulldozer is not going to catch the coronavirus while he is sitting in his cab by himself. That operator ought to be able to continue to operate,” he said.

Some Republicans want to go a step further and reopen all businesses. Senator Doug Mastriano of Adams County has proposed allowing all businesses to reopen provided they comply with OSHA guidelines for preventing the virus’ spread.

Pennsylvania has been among the more proactive states with its restrictions on business to fight the virus spread. It also has the second highest number of unemployment claims in the nation, ahead of New York and only behind California.

Argall said he believes there is a connection between the extent of Pennsylvania’s restrictions and its disproportionate amount of unemployment claims.

He said opening up the process and allowing some workers to return could lessen the damage to Pennsylvania’s economy caused by the virus.

“We want people to stay healthy, but we’d also like them, whenever possible, to continue to earn a paycheck,” Argall said.

The governor’s office replied that information about businesses receiving exemptions from the governor’s and secretary of health’s business closure orders will be supplied following the conclusion of the review process.