St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

After Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer extended the state of emergency without approval from the state Legislature, Rep. Beth Griffin (R-Mattawan) chose to vote in favor of ending Michigan's state of emergency, according to Michigan House Republicans. 

Whitmer's COVID-19 state shutdown was voted on in late April, when Griffin voted to discontinue it. Griffin also voted to alter some of the governor's executive orders pertaining to the coronavirus, which includes giving them exact expiration dates and other changes. 

Senate Bill 858 would give workers, taxpayers, consumers and health care workers additional protections, according to Michigan House Republicans.

Executive Order 43-2020 is also touched on in Senate Bill 858. It would set restrictions on the size of gatherings in public accommodations, public amusements, businesses and public service areas that open for in-person work.

The restrictions request these businesses to enforce safety guidelines as directed by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

These provisions include items such as following social-distancing guidelines, enhanced cleaning provisions, personal protective equipment for employees, avoiding the sharing of tools and equipment when possible and promoting remote work. These provisions would expire when the state of emergency ends.

“Senate Bill 858 effectively ends the governor’s state of emergency,” Griffin told Michigan House Republicans. “I appreciate the immense pressure the governor must be feeling, but in a time of crisis, it’s imperative the executive and legislative branches are working in concert to ensure two key principles: the safety of our communities and the integrity of our republic. As we work on this transition, you will see the bicameral COVID-19 oversight committee using its subpoena powers to demand transparency and accountability as we move forward.”