KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Monday, Kalamazoo Sheriff Richard Fuller issued a statement regarding the recent State mask order by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
The order requires people to wear masks not only in enclosed public spaces, but also in outdoor spaces where social distancing cannot be consistently maintained. Violators could face a misdemeanor punishable by a $500 dollar fine.
The new order also mandates that businesses refuse service to anyone who refuses to wear a mask. Businesses that do not follow the order could lose their license.
The statement from Fuller can be read in full below:
“On July 10th, 2020 Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-147. This order is one of a series of orders directly related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) which is a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death. It is caused by a new strain of coronavirus not previously identified in humans and easily spread from person to person.
I urge everyone to follow the Executive Orders put in place by Governor Whitmer. They carry the weight of law. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office will inform and educate members of the public with the goal of voluntary compliance.
Enforcement for violations of E.O. 2020-147 could come through investigations of other public peace or criminal violations. All businesses have a responsibility for the safety and security of their staff and guests. A business is well within their rights to refuse entry to anyone in violation of the Executive Orders, similar to ‘No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service.’
Richard C. Fuller, III.“
The news from Fuller comes as some Police divisions, such as those in Van Buren County and Sturgis, have announced that they will not enforce the order, and that any complaints of violations should be filed with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
