Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Announces Shut Downs

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced wide-ranging new restrictions affecting high schools, colleges, and restaurants today in an attempt to combat what she described as the “worst moment” yet in the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to The Detroit News, Whitmer’s epidemic order will temporarily halt in-person instruction at high schools and colleges, dine-in service at restaurants and bars, as well as close some businesses, including movie theaters, bowling alleys, and casinos.

The restrictions were imposed through a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order and will take effect on Wednesday, staying in place for three weeks and will end Dec. 8. Under the order, indoor residential gatherings will be limited to no more than two households at any one time.

“The situation has never been more dire,” Whitmer said Sunday during a rare weekend press conference. “We are at the precipice, and we need to take some action.”

Under the new policies changes, hair salons, retail shops and preschool through eighth-grade schools will still be allowed to be remain open. Restaurants can offer take-out and outdoor dining, and gyms and pools will be allowed to remain open for individual exercise.