UNIVERSITY CENTER – In the continued fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Michigan will have to shelter in place for just a little while longer.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced on Friday, April 24, that the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order has been extended to Friday, May 15. The original order was to expire Thursday, April 30.
A new restriction is in place requiring all citizens in enclosed public spaces, such as grocery stores, to wear face masks. This is not required for outdoor spaces.
Some restrictions in the previous order have been lifted. Lawn service, landscaping and garden centers can now reopen under strict social distancing measures. This means that previously closed areas in essential stores selling non-essential items and garden supplies may reopen.
Bike repair and maintenance shops may also reopen, and non-essential retailers may operate under a curbside pickup/delivery format.
In accordance with strict social distancing, motorized boat use and golfing (without golf carts) are also allowed once again. Travel between residences (including summer homes) is also allowed, however strongly discouraged, under the new order.
Joneigh Khaldon, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for MDHHS, says that positive coronavirus cases have been on a downward trend thanks to social distancing. However, such drastic measures must continue, as they are seen as the best weapon against the virus.
“The governor has taken a number of critical steps to protect Michigan families, and this order today will allow that work to continue,” Khaldon stated in a press release. “We will keep monitoring the data closely and work with our partners across state government to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.”
