LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order is being extended until May 15th, but some changes are being made.
— Requiring Face Masks —
Following in the footsteps of several other states, handmade, non-medical grade face coverings will now be required when in enclosed public places like grocery stores to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
All businesses will also have to provide face masks for their employees who work outside the home.
During her press briefing on Friday, April 24, the governor explained that masks must be worn properly, covering nose and mouth, and they can be made from many different materials like cloth, bandannas, old t-shirts, etc.
However, according to her press release, “no one will be subject to criminal penalty for going without a mask,” but businesses can refuse service to people who are not wearing them if they choose.
“A face covering is crucial to protecting the public and our critical employees and for now N95 masks need to be reserved for those on the front lines,” Whitmer said.
The governor said she spoke with grocery store workers from Kroger and Meijer who are asking consumers not to shop as a family if possible, avoid touching your face while in the produce section, and continue adhering to the six feet distance rule, even if you’re wearing a mask.
“Don’t grab a grocery bag and lick your finger to separate it, and then start touching produce. Every time you touch your face it is the risk of cross contamination,” Whitmer added.
— Loosening Business Restrictions —
Some “lower risk” businesses will also be able to go back to work.
Under the governor’s new order landscapers, lawn-service companies, and nurseries will be able to resume operating as long as they enforce strict social distancing guidelines. “That means that they should have limited contact with clients,” Whitmer added, “workers should have the personal protection equipment that they need like gloves, goggles, and masks.”
Retailers that do not sell essential supplies may also reopen for curbside pick-up and for delivery services. Big box stores can open up their “closed areas” of non-essential items like their garden centers, and bike repair and maintenance can resume operations.
“We will consider this the preliminary stage of economic re-engagement,” Whitmer said.
— Boating and Golfing Resumes —
The new order also allows for some recreational activities as long as Michiganders continue social distancing.
Motorized boating and golf are now allowed, but golfers will not be able to operate golf carts.
— Loosened Travel Rules —
According to the governor’s press release, Michiganders will now be permitted to travel between their residences, though this is still strongly discouraged.
“While it’s understandable to be lured by the phenomenal beauty of this great state and hit the road, we know that our rural hospitals are simply not equipped to meet an influx in people who may bring or spread the virus,” Whitmer said.
State parks will also remain open as they have been throughout this state of emergency.
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In a written statement Whitmer said, “Data shows that most Michiganders are doing their part by staying home and staying safe. That’s good, but we must keep it up. Social distancing is our best weapon to defeat this enemy. With new COVID-19 cases leveling off, however, we are lifting some of the restrictions put in place in the previous order. I want to be crystal clear: the overarching message today is still the same. We must all do our part by staying home and staying safe as much as possible.”
Whitmer adds that they will be continually measuring, ramping up COVID-19 testing and tracing, securing PPE for first responders, and analyzing the overall outcomes of the coronavirus pandemic.
The official announcement from Governor Whitmer can be seen on the Michigan State Police Department’s Facebook page.
