In Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer decided to extend the date for the state’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” rule till May 15th but restrictions placed on certain businesses have been lifted. All the small companies and leisure stores that are allowed to operate will have to observe social distancing guidelines to avoid risking the safety of workers and customers. 

Source: MLive

Along with this, some new rules have been introduced so that the state can limit the spread of the virus. The order was put into effect at 11 am on Friday and here are some major changes announced by Governor Whitmer.

1. Short-term housing or vacation rentals (Airbnb, for example) are prohibited unless used to house health care workers who are aiding in the response to the outbreak.

2. Masks that cover the mouth and nose must be worn in any enclosed public space by anyone who can medically tolerate wearing a mask. Masks can be homemade, a scarf, bandana or handkerchief. Whitmer did say there are no charges associated with not wearing a mask. However, businesses may refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask in an enclosed space. Any business with workers performing in-person tasks must provide employees with a non-medical grade mask. N-95 masks should be reserved for use by health care professionals, first responders, and other critical workers who interact with the public. This portion of the order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.

3. Travel to and from residences in Michigan is allowed once again. This includes moving into a new residence. Residents may also leave the state to travel to another residence or return from out of state to a residence in Michigan. Travel to vacation rentals is prohibited.

4. State parks will remain open for day use. However, they are subject to closure if the DNR determines too many large crowds are gathering or social distancing is not being observed.

5. Workers at garden stores, nurseries and lawn care, pest control, and landscaping operations may return to work while using social distancing guidelines.

6. Bicycle maintenance and repair shops may reopen.

7. Moving and storage workers may also resume working under social distancing guidelines.

8. Maintenance workers and groundskeepers who are necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of places of outdoor recreation may return to work, provided their employers are allowed to be open under the order.

9. Golf courses are allowed to reopen, provided golfers adhere to social distancing guidelines, and stay at least six feet away from people who do not live in their homes. Golf carts will not be allowed.

10. Boating, including the use of motors, is also allowed once again, as long as boaters stay at least six feet away from anyone who does not live in their home.

11. Travel to addiction recovery meetings is allowed, as long as there are no more than 10 people in attendance.

12. Large stores may once again sell items like carpeting, paint, and furniture.

As far as restaurants and bars are concerned, the state has decided that it best to keep them closed for now. Similar restrictions are placed for salons and other non-essential businesses opening for public use.