Michigan Sheriffs Refusing To Enforce Mask Executive Order

MICHIGAN — Several sheriffs from around Michigan have said they will not enforce an executive order issued last week by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that requires Michiganders to wear face coverings when in indoor public spaces and crowded outdoor public spaces.

The order was issued Friday but took effect Monday. It requires any business that is open to the public to refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering, with some exceptions. Businesses must post signs at all entrances instructing customers of their legal obligation to wear a face covering while inside.

A willful violation of Whitmer's order is a misdemeanor subject to a $500 criminal penalty, but no term of confinement may be imposed on individuals who violate the mask requirement, according to the governor's office. No one is subject to penalty under the order for removing a mask while engaging in religious worship at a house of religious worship, although consistent with guidance from the CDC, congregants are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings during religious services, Whitmer's office said.

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But despite the criminal penalty and possible misdemeanor charge, several sheriffs reiterated to their constituents that the executive order will not be enforced.

The Macomb County Sheriff's Office issued a statement on social media explaining that it will not be issuing citations to people for not wearing masks.

"Those who wish to make a complaint will be referred to the Attorney General’s Office," the department said. "If a business wishes to enforce this order, they may require patrons to wear a mask. If the patron refuses, the business may ask them to leave their establishment. If the patron refuses, the business may contact us and we will treat it as a trespassing complaint. We hope this clears up any confusion."

Related: Masks Are Required In Michigan. Here's What To Know.

Similar statements were provided by sheriffs in other parts of the state. Sheriffs in Mid-Michigan's Shiawassee and Gratiot counties put forth similar measures. In Western Michigan, Van Buren County Sheriff Daniel Abbott said his department would not investigate violations of Whitmer's order. MLive reported that the sheriff said he believes Whitmer has overstepped her bounds with executive orders.

In Saginaw County, Sheriff Bill Federspiel said executive orders are not laws.

"We will not be treating it as such, nor issuing sanctions," the agency said. "We will respond to complaints which come into our Dispatch Center as we are obligated to respond to all calls for service. Since the beginning of this crisis, if there is a violation, it is sent to the Health Division for follow-up. Zero tickets and zero sanctions have been given out since March."

The governor's office has not yet responded to a request for comment for this story.

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