Gov. Whitmer announces 3 week 'pause' in response to COVID-19 case increases

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued a new emergency order on Sunday at 6 p.m. that puts a three-week pause on indoor events and other group activities.

Indoor residential gatherings are limited to two households at any one time. MDHHS urges families to choose a single other family to interact with during this time, to limit possible contact.

Bars and restaurants will be open for outdoor dining, carry-out, and delivery only; no indoor dining.

Gyms will remain open for people to exercise alone with strict safety measures, but group exercise activities will not be allowed.

Casinos and movie theaters will all be closed.

Professional and college sports that meet extraordinary standards for safety can continue without any spectators. All other organized sports will stop.

Colleges and high schools must end in-person classes and move to virtual learning.

“In the spring, we listened to public health experts, stomped the curve, and saved thousands of lives together. Now, we must channel that same energy and join forces again to protect our families, frontline workers and small businesses,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

“Indoor gatherings are the greatest source of spread, and sharply limiting them is our focus,” said MDHHS Director Robert Gordon.

The order will take effect Wednesday, November 18th.

The order is not a stay-at-home action as was the case earlier in the year.

Work that cannot be done from home is permitted, including manufacturing, constructions, and health occupations.

Some activities are still allowed with social distancing and face masks, such as retail shopping, public transit, restaurant takeout, and personal-care services like haircuts by appointment.

In-person K-8 instruction may continue with strong risk mitigation.

Childcare services will also remain open.