After considerable discussion and research, Motif decided to publish our regularly scheduled print edition. We regard it as a valuable public service. We are safely distributing it with due regard for the coronavirus.
Physical magazines cannot carry infection. Virus droplets break down harmlessly on paper or cardboard in a few hours even if coughed or sneezed on by someone who is infected, and our delivery drivers are not. We’re using gloves, hand sanitizer and whatever else our drivers judge helpful.
Our delivery process involves little interaction between people. We believe the risk to anyone is minimal or we would never have moved forward. However, we told our drivers they were free to sit out this delivery cycle if they were uncomfortable, no questions asked and no repercussions, and some did.
RI statute §30-15-4(2) explicitly prevents the governor from using emergency powers to restrict newspapers: “Nothing in this chapter shall be construed:… To interfere with dissemination of news or comment on public affairs…” This is an awesome responsibility we take extremely seriously.
Be safe, be well – and, if you use this magazine for toilet paper, be sure to remove the staples.
– Michael Bilow, distribution manager
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