All businesses in Michigan are now required to refuse service or entry to any person who is not wearing a face covering.
The new requirement comes from an executive order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Friday morning expanding Michigan’s requirements for wearing masks in public spaces. Violators of the new requirement will be subject to a $500 criminal penalty.
States such as Kansas, Maine, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Washington have imposed similar requirements.
The order, which takes effect Monday morning, also requires the wearing of masks in crowded outdoor spaces. The move comes a week after Whitmer shut down indoor bar service for most of Michigan in an effort to ramp up enforcement.
Whitmer said by wearing masks, Michiganders would both save lives and help the state reopen schools in the fall.
“By wearing masks, we can save lives and protect our family, friends and neighbors from the spread of COVID-19,” Whitmer said. “And by wearing masks now, we can put our state in a stronger position so our kids can return to school safely in the fall. For the sake of your loved ones, let’s all mask up, Michigan.”
The executive order comes as every single region in Michigan is seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and DHHS chief deputy for health, echoed Whitmer’s call to wear masks and said it was a crucial mechanism in the continued fight against the virus.
“Michigan’s fight against COVID-19 is nowhere near over, which is why it’s so important that we all do our part and wear masks when we’re out in public,” Khaldun said. “Wearing a mask or face covering can significantly decrease the chance of spreading COVID-19 and save lives. It’s important that all Michiganders wear masks properly not down around the neck, not only over the mouth, but correctly over the mouth and nose. Please everyone stay patient, and remain vigilant.”
Daily Staff Reporter John Grieve can be reached at jgrieve@umich.edu.