| Dear Friends,
There’s no question that the past few weeks have been difficult for all of us, especially for those who have had family, friends and loved ones impacted in one way or another by COVID-19. But each of us has a vital role to play in stopping the spread of this virus and protecting the lives of our neighbors — staying home as much as possible. That’s why Gov. Whitmer has extended the Stay Home, Stay Safe order until April 30.
I understand the governor is doing all she can to protect public health and save lives. I also feel for the businesses in my district that will be impacted and have forwarded pleas to loosen restrictions on small businesses such as nurseries and landscapers. This will be a hard time for us all, but I have no doubt we will get through this together.
Below you’ll find additional information about Gov. Whitmer’s newest order.
Serving Our Critical Needs Gov. Whitmer’s executive order helps to clarify additional businesses that may remain open to meet our communities’ critical needs:
- Retail stores that sell products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and basic operations of residences, including convenience stores, pet supply, auto supplies and repair, hardware and home improvement, and appliance stores.
- Laundromats, coin laundries and dry cleaners.
- Hotels and motels.
- Auto dealerships.
Protecting Michigan Workers and Communities We may never be able to fully express the depth of our gratitude and appreciation for the Michiganders who risk their own safety each day to serve our communities on the frontlines of this crisis, but we can at least ensure their employers do everything they can to mitigate the threat of COVID-19. Gov. Whitmer’s executive order requires open businesses to:
- Restrict workers on premises to those absolutely necessary for operation.
- Allow remote work as much as possible.
- Maintain social distancing for workers and customers as much as possible.
- Enhance cleaning and disinfecting protocols and practices.
- Establish strict screening protocols to keep workers with COVID-19 symptoms from entering the business.
- Develop a COVID-19 preparedness and response plan.
- Limit the number of customers in the store.
Big Box retail stores (50,000 square feet or larger) must also:
- Only allow sales of products and services that are directly required to protect and sustain life.
- Prohibit access to products such as carpet or flooring, furniture, garden centers, plant nurseries and paint.
- Use curbside pick-up to reduce lines and in-store access.
- Create special shopping times for seniors, pregnant women and others with chronic medical conditions.
Tele-Town Hall
I would like to invite you to join me for a Tele-Town Hall on unemployment benefits, small business impacts, and other topics related to the COVID-19 crisis. I will be joined by an expert from the state of Michigan to discuss these important issues.
The Tele-Town Hall will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, April 14 at 4 p.m., and you can register by filling out this form. Registration will close two hours prior to the event. I hope you can join us!
Helpful Resources
Tri-County Office on Aging & Meals on Wheels: (517) 887-1440
Greater Lansing Food Bank: (517) 853-7800
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