During a press conference Thursday morning, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the dates retail businesses and car dealers can open, lifted the ban on non-essential health procedures as of May 29 and announced she will likely extend the safer at home order.

Whitmer signed several executive orders that will allow retail businesses and auto dealers to open by appointment on May 26. Non-essential health procedures, including health, dental and veterinary, can resume on May 29.

The governor’s order also allows gatherings of ten people or less, with social distancing, starting immediately.

“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,” Governor Whitmer said.

“As businesses continue to reopen, it’s crucial that they adopt strict safety measures to protect their employees, customers, and their families,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive.