What Michigan's Extended Stay-Home Order Entails

MICHIGAN — The state's extended stay-home order loosens some restrictions included in the previous order, but it also requires residents to wear masks when in some public spaces and discourages some travel.

The extension, announced by Governor Gretchen Whitmer Friday morning, carries the stay-home order through May 15 and immediately replaces the prior one, which was signed April 9 and set to expire next week.

"As we've seen our numbers begin to plateau over the course of the last week, we know that it's because Michiganders are doing their part and staying home and staying safe," Whitmer said. "I want to reiterate how important it is that we continue to do that. It's doing the right thing and is paying off."

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Whitmer said her actions are in close alignment with what other states across the Midwest have done and noted that she will work in close coordination with other Midwest governors to reopen the economy in the Midwest region.

Michigan has reported more than 35,000 cases of the new coronavirus and nearly 3,000 deaths resulting from the virus as of Thursday morning.

According to the extension, Michiganders are required to wear face coverings — not medical grade masks, however — while in enclosed public spaces, such as grocery stores, if they are physically able to do so. The previous order only encouraged the use of face coverings. Employers must provide non-medical grade masks to their in-person employees. People won’t have to wear face coverings when they’re taking a walk in an open space.

Anyone who goes to a public space without a mask will not be subject to criminal penalties, Whitmer said.

Landscapers, lawn-service companies and nurseries can return to work, subject to strict social distancing. Stores that sell nonessential supplies are allowed to reopen, but for curbside pickup or delivery only. Restrictions have been eased on big-box retailers, which no longer are required to close off outdoor garden centers or areas selling nonessential items such as paint, flooring or carpet.

Restaurants and eateries are required to remain closed to dine-in customers.

The order will allow motorized boating and golf, but with no golf carts. It will also permit individuals to travel between their residences, though such travel during the epidemic is strongly discouraged, Whitmer said.

Activities that continue to be prohibited by Whitmer's extension include any activity not deemed necessary to sustain or protect life, the order states.

"I know there's been a lot of discussion about these restriction," Whitmer said. "I know they haven't been easy and they've seemed inconsistent or confusing, but the data shows that what we have done is working."

You can read the full order here.

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