What the state of Michigan’s “stay-at-home” order means for residents

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced on Monday morning an executive order that is urging Michigan residents to “stay home, stay safe,” which closes down non-essential work for the next three weeks at least, starting at 12:01 a.m. ET on Tuesday, March 24. This is to combat the spread of COVID-19 while we deal with this crisis as a society.

We realize that some of you may not live in the state of Michigan, but this may be coming to your state, as well. Let’s side aside our personal politics. That is not what we are here for. We simply want to summarize what the order means to those who may be confused or unsure.

Here’s what Whitmer’s order means in a nutshell:

• Businesses are prohibited from operating outside of their homes unless workers are necessary to “sustain or protect life” or basic operations. It is being left up to businesses who meets that criteria. Those who continue to operate have to take proper social distancing measures and provide a safe work environment.
• “Sustain or protect life” workers includes people in the health care industry, law enforcement, public safety works, those who work in grocery stores, maintain restaurants, etc. A full list can be found here.
• All public and private gatherings with any number of folks outside of a single household are prohibited temporarily.
• People are still able to leave the house for gathering supplies, groceries, filling up gas, etc. We will all be able to still get what we need. Groceries stores will be open, so there is no need to hoard. It seems as if restaurants carrying out and delivering is still allowed, and heck, it looks like our convenience stores will remain open, as well.
• Outdoor recreation that practices safe social distancing of at least six feet apart will continue to be allowed, such as running, walking, hiking, cycling, etc. No word yet on what this means for golf courses, but it seems like they should be able to abide by this. Unless you are James Harden and refuse to play defense, your pickup basketball games are going to have to wait.
• Play your video games and watch your movies! You have time now. When will we ever have an excuse to do this again?

Right now, some might be struggling with the news that their job or daily function is deemed “non-essential” amidst this crisis. Something I want to make clear here is that just because your role may wind up being labeled as that does not mean that you as a human are being labeled as that. You matter and your mental health matters. You’re important to family and friends. You’re important to us here. Keep your loved ones close, but safe and let’s knock this thing down.

Stay safe, everyone. We will get through this.