Dear Neighbor:

Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates on the state’s efforts to address COVID-19 as well as other news from your state government.

Michigan Lifts Outdoor COVID-19 Restrictions

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services released a revised version of its previous epidemic order. As of June 1, many of Michigan’s COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, including outdoor capacity limits.

The following is included in the new order:

  • Outdoor gathering capacity restrictions are eliminated.
  • Indoor gatherings can be held at 50% capacity. Capacity limits for indoor gatherings at private residences are eliminated.
  • Restaurants and bars can be open at 50% capacity and are no longer required to stop indoor dining at 11 p.m.
  • Masks will no longer be required during any sports practice or for outdoor games. Masks are still required for non-vaccinated student-athletes during indoor competitions.

The following continues to be in effect:

  • Fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to wear masks indoors. Those who are not vaccinated or who have been vaccinated less than two weeks ago are still required to wear masks inside.
  • Masks are no longer required outdoors.
  • Fully vaccinated student-athletes are no longer required to be routinely tested for COVID-19. Non-vaccinated athletes ages 13-19 are still required to participate in a weekly COVID-19 testing program.

This order is effective through July 1. More information can be found at michigan.gov/coronavirus.

MSU Pavilion Vaccination Clinic Winding Down

The Ingham County Health Department is winding down its vaccination clinic at the MSU Pavilion. There are just three more walk-in opportunities to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The remaining time slots are:

  • Thursday, July 3, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Friday, June 4, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Tuesday, June 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Everyone age 12 and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition to the health department, Sparrow Health Systems, McLaren Greater Lansing, Rite Aid, Meijer, and other pharmacies are administering the vaccine.

Emergency Broadband Available to Low-Income Households

Low-income households can sign up to receive up to $50 a month toward broadband services through the Emergency Broadband Benefit program. Part of the federal COVID-19 relief funding, this program allocates $3.2 billion to help families struggling to afford internet access. This program also provides a one-time $100 discount for a laptop, computer, or tablet from a participating provider. Find out more information and apply here.

Schedule SOS Appointments Can Be Scheduled by Phone or Online

Secretary of State offices are open by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling 888-SOS-MICH. Many transactions can be completed by mail, online, or at self-service stations. Find out more information about Secretary of State services at Michigan.gov/SOS.

Please don’t hesitate to contact my office at (517) 373-0587 or by email at karahope@house.mi.gov if we can help.

Sincerely,

Kara Hope

State Representative