Whitmer Extends Michigan State Of Emergency

MICHIGAN — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has extended the state's state of emergency through August 11, citing an uptick in new coronavirus cases in every region in the state over the past three weeks.

Daily coronavirus counts now exceed 20 cases per million in the Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo regions, according to Whitmer's office. As of Tuesday, more than 70,000 cases have been reported.

“COVID-19 has now killed more than 6,000 people in Michigan. That’s more than 6,000 of our parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbors. And the rising numbers we’ve seen over the past few weeks prove that this virus is still a very real threat in our state,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Today, I signed new emergency and disaster declarations using independent sources of statutory authority to continue saving lives and ensure that the brave men and women on the front lines of this crisis have the tools they need.

“Throughout this crisis, the vast majority of Michiganders have done their part, but we must remain vigilant and continue to do everything we can to protect our loved ones,” Whitmer added. “That means wearing a mask over your mouth and nose and practicing safe physical distancing when going out in public. If we all do our part now, there is a greater chance that schools can resume in-person learning in the fall. Be smart, be safe, and mask up.”

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Whitmer had previously hinted at extending the state of emergency, which was set to expire on Thursday. The state of emergency should not be confused with the statewide stay-home order, which was lifted in June.

The increase in cases reflects a national trend: coronavirus cases are growing in 39 states and in some are surging uncontrollably, Whitmer said. Two days ago, Florida recorded 15,300 new cases in a single day, the highest one-day total for any state so far during the pandemic.

“COVID-19 still poses a threat to families across Michigan, and it’s crucial that Governor Whitmer continue to take swift action to save lives,” said Chief Medical Executive and MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “Michiganders should all continue to do their part by wearing a mask and practicing safe physical distancing. We will get through this when we work together.”

During this crisis, Michigan has often processed more unemployment claims in a single day than in the most painful week of the Great Recession, and the state already saw its highest unemployment rate since the Great Depression, Whitmer said. The governor said The Michigan Department of Treasury predicts that this year the state will lose between $1 and $3 billion in revenue.

Michigan ranks 13th in the U.S. in coronavirus cases, according to data provided by the World Health Organization. The state ranks seventh in coronavirus deaths. It has recently ranked as low as eighth in deaths, and have previously ranked as high as third in the nation in both categories.