MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — A new measure protects Michigan workers from being fired or facing disciplinary action for having contracted COVID-19.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed another executive order on Friday aiming to ensure public health during the crisis, this time prohibiting employers from firing, disciplining, or retaliating against workers who have tested positive for novel coronavirus.
The order also protects workers who have been in contact with individuals testing positive or who have shown symptoms of the illness.
“People who are prioritizing the health and safety of their families, neighbors, and loved ones during this crisis should not be punished by their workplace,” Whitmer said in a released statement.
Executive Order 2020-36 takes effect immediately and will be in effect until the expiration of the governor’s declared state of emergency.
Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 or experience symptoms are mandated to stay at home until three days after symptoms disappear, or seven days after first noticing recognizable symptoms including fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Those who experience minor symptoms or have a household member with COVID-19 are urged to stay home, but are allowed to leave their residence when it is necessary to obtain food, medical supplies, and other services critical for sustaining or protecting life.
“It’s crucial that anyone experiencing symptoms, and those they live with, stay home and stay safe,” said Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun.
Whitmer said during a press conference on Friday morning that the order is meant to protect vulnerable workers as businesses put in place protocols screening employees for the virus.
“Staying home and staying safe is one of the most important things we can do to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan, and this executive order will ensure more people can do so without facing discrimination from their workplace,” said Whitmer.
Health care workers, first responders, correctional officers, and child care employees are exempt from the new executive order if a member of their household shows symptoms or tests positive for coronavirus.
The Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department recently issued guidelines advising essential care services and businesses to screen for potential symptoms of COVID-19.
Retail companies like Meijer, Walmart and other firms have started to implement daily temperature readings and symptom checks for workers showing up during shifts.
