Gov. Whitmer Extends Stay Home Order Until May 15th, Allows Some Businesses to Open

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has extended her “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order through May 15.

But she’s allowing for the opening of some businesses, like landscapers, plant nurseries and bike repair shops – as long as proper social distancing measures are used. Whitmer says she’s willing to listen to other business to see if they’re able to open as well.

“We welcome input from the private sector to measures they would acknowledge make their workplaces safer.”

“We welcome input from the private sector to measures they would acknowledge make their workplaces safer,” Whitmer said. “I’d love to have policy that reflects those best practices and we welcome that.”

Whitmer is also lifting restrictions on golf and motor boating – provided social distancing guidelines are followed.

But the governor had harsh words for leaders of Michigan’s Republican-controlled legislature who called a session specifically to limit her executive powers.

“I think they should be focused on making sure people who lost their jobs have access to health care if they’re doing anything together,” Whitmer said. “I think that they should be focused on paid sick leave if they are determined to congregate in Lansing. That would be a wonderful use of their energy.”

Whitmer said she would veto any bill that limited the powers of a governor in an emergency.