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Country Music Hall of Fame lays off more than 70 employees due to COVID-19 shutdown

Posted at 5:15 PM, May 29, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-29 18:15:43-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The COVID-19 shutdown hit the County Music Hall of Fame and Museum hard, forcing it to lay off a total of 73 employees and furlough 101 employees.

The layoffs and furloughs will take effect June 18. CEO Kyle Young released the following statement:

“We were forced to make this difficult decision by a challenging business environment unprecedented in the museum’s history. Since closing March 13, the museum has lost millions of dollars in budgeted revenue. Our economic setbacks, coupled with the uncertainties of the future related to the pandemic, make it necessary to take these measures now to protect the institution and ensure its future.”

Museum officials announced earlier this week that it would remain closed through the end of June.

“The health and safety of our guests and staff are our top priority, and with that in mind, we have made the decision to extend our temporary closure,” said Young. “When we reopen our doors, measures and protocols will be in place to help ensure a safe and healthy environment for our visitors, employees and the community.”

Officials said they will continue to monitor developments and rely on guidance from public health officials to inform future decisions.