Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that retail business in the state will soon reopen by appointment only.
Whitmer, whose stringent coronavirus restrictions have been met with protests, announced the move Thursday. Retail businesses and auto dealerships are set to reopen Tuesday. Additionally, the state will allow gatherings of 10 people or less effective immediately, paving the way for expanded Memorial Day activities.
“The data shows that Michigan is ready to phase in these sectors of our economy, but we must stay vigilant and ensure we’re doing everything we can to protect ourselves and our families from the spread of COVID-19,” she said in a press release. “On behalf of our brave first responders on the front lines of this crisis, we must continue to all do our part by staying safer at home. We owe it to them to do what we can to stop the spread of this virus.”
Whitmer also said that nonessential medical procedures and veterinarian appointments will be allowed to resume on May 29.
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Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, emphasized that businesses still need to adhere to proper safety and social distancing measures as customers begin to return despite the changes.
“As businesses continue to reopen, it’s crucial that they adopt strict safety measures to protect their employees, customers, and their families,” Khaldun said. “I know that as medical professionals begin offering nonessential procedures again, they will do everything in their power to protect patients and their families from COVID-19.
“I will continue to work with Governor Whitmer and our partners across Michigan to protect our families and lower the chance of a second wave,” she added.
Whitmer, who has faced death threats during the pandemic, was condemned by some early on in the health crisis when she issued an expanded executive order that banned visits to other residences and the sale of some “nonessential” goods. She also faced a lawsuit over her decision to extend the state of emergency in Michigan, but a court ruled in her favor this week.
The governor is reportedly being considered for the vice presidential slot on Joe Biden’s ticket, although she has downplayed her standing in the vetting process.
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