Whitmer Not Planning Another Mask Mandate, Despite CDC Guidance

LANSING, MI — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Tuesday said the state isn't likely to reintroduce more mask-wearing rules despite a recent recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that vaccinated people wear masks inside highly populated areas.

The guidance comes as the U.S. sees an influx in new COVID-19 cases, related in part to the emergence of the more contagious Delta variant. Before the recommendation was officially made, Whitmer was spotted at a news event wearing a mask, prompting some to speculate she may reintroduce mask restrictions as she has done previously during the pandemic.

"I do not anticipate another pandemic order, not in the near future and maybe not ever," Whitmer said, according to The Detroit News. "The fact of the matter is we now know a lot more about this virus. We have vaccines."

Daily COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in Michigan, according to John Hopkins University. But the state's two-week rate of new cases is lower than all but three other states.

In the meantime, Whitmer has continued to urge Michiganders to get vaccinated. About 63 percent of residents ages 16 and older have gotten at least one shot, according to The Associated Press.

“I wear it not because I’m worried about me but because I worry about those who aren’t vaccinated yet. If you aren’t vaccinated, please get vaccinated. It’s the best way to stay safe,” Whitmer said, according to The Associated Press.