Gov. Whitmer Extends State of Emergency + Mask Requirements for Michiganders

Michigan will remain in a state of emergency and residents will be required to wear face masks while shopping through the middle of July.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an Executive Order today which extends the state of emergency declaration until July16, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The order allows her to take steps deemed necessary by her office to protect Michigan families and workers.

Yesterday, Governor Whitmer extended the requirement for residents to wear face masks while shopping in grocery stores and pharmacies. That requirement is in effect for anyone who can medically tolerate wearing a mask through July 15.

“The aggressive measures we took at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic have worked to flatten the curve, but there is still more to be done to prevent a second wave,” Governor Whitmer said in a press release. “We owe it to the heroes on the front lines to keep doing our part by wearing a mask when in public and practicing social distancing. Now is not the time to get complacent. We must continue to stay vigilant and flexible in order to reduce the chance of a second wave.” 

A report cited on Wednesday says that Michigan is just one of three US states that are on track to contain the virus. Michigan, New York, and New Jersey were all hit particularly hard by the virus earlier this year but took rigorous steps to mitigate the spread of the disease.

Governor Whitmer said the Stay Safe order that was put in place in Michigan played a big part in saving lives.

“Very few states dropped their infection rate as low and for as long as Michigan has, and I want thank everyone who stepped up to do their part to protect our communities.”