Whitmer extends stay-home order through May 15, eases restrictions


Posted by The Huron Hub
April 24, 2020 - 10:15 AM EST
Updated April 24, 2020 - 10:36 AM EST 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Friday lengthened her stay-at-home order through May 15.

However, Whitmer lifted restrictions allowing some businesses to reopen.

The public can also participate in outdoor activities like golf (but no golf carts) and motorized boating during the coronavirus pandemic.

The order will require people to wear homemade, non-medical grade face coverings when they enter enclosed public spaces.

The order also requires employers to provide at least cloth face coverings to their employees.

“People won’t have to wear face coverings when they’re taking a walk in the neighborhood, but when they go to the grocery store, they should be wearing one,” Whitmer said.

Under the order, no one will be subject to criminal penalty for going without a mask.

The new executive order says landscapers, lawn-service companies, plant nurseries and bike repair shops can resume operating, but are subject to social-distancing rules.

Stores selling nonessential supplies will be allowed to reopen for curbside pickup and delivery.

Additionally, big-box retailers are no longer required to close off garden centers and areas dedicated to selling paint, flooring and carpet.

Whitmer said people with multiple in-state homes can resume traveling between them, though it is strongly discouraged.

“The vast majority of people in this state are doing the right things. We’ve seen the curve get pushed down,” Whitmer told The Associated Press. “I think it’s appropriate to reevaluate along the way. At this point we feel like’s good to have our first wave of reengagement in this way.”

The order will continue to prohibit in-person work that is not necessary to sustain or protect life, but there will be some exemptions for various critical jobs.

Restaurants will remain closed to dine-in customers and can only offer carry-out services.

Bars, movie theaters, gyms and other sports facilities also are still required to remain closed.

Whitmer is scheduled to speak Friday during a public update at 11 a.m.

You can watch the update streaming at Twitter.com/MichStatePolice or Facebook.com/MichiganStatePolice.


You can view a special COVID-19 (coronavirus) news section on HuronHub.com by clicking on this link.

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