Over 71 percent of Billings business owners are at least somewhat concerned about the welfare of their businesses this winter according to a survey conducted by the Billings Chamber of Commerce.

Almost a fourth are “concerned” to “very concerned” and almost half are “somewhat” concerned about having to close their businesses because of the current COVID-19 restrictions, according to the survey which had 274 responses.

Just under 30 percent said they were not concerned at all.

Current orders issued by Yellowstone County Health Officer John Felton requires all businesses to operate at 50 percent capacity, opening no earlier than 4 am and closing by 10 pm. The mandate reduced capacity level from 75 percent, and for many businesses 50 percent capacity isn’t enough to sustain the business and is basically a requirement to close. The order pertains to all places of assembly, retail stores, bars, casinos, churches, gym, and salon.

Exceptions include healthcare organizations and pharmacies. Restaurants may provide takeout and drive-through food after 10 p.m.

Felton is limiting all indoor and outdoor gatherings to 25 people.

His orders are for the most part the same as those issued by Gov. Steve Bullock a few days earlier.