LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – While she didn’t answer the question of whether shutdown requirements for bars, restaurants, and schools around Michigan will be lifted next week, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said Tuesday she is ready to sign a $100 million economic stimulus plan to help families and small businesses struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At a press briefing in Lansing, the governor urged the Republican-led state legislature to take action on a number of other issues too, including a permanent extension of unemployment benefits to 26 weeks, and a statewide mask mandate.
“Yesterday, I sent another letter to the Legislature, urging them to work with me on priorities like $100 million in COVID-19 relief,” Whitmer said. “We know this virus is hurting our people, hurting our businesses.”
An epidemic order from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that is runs through December 20 includes the ban on indoor dining, in-person classes for colleges and high schools, and entertainment venues. The order was originally in effect from November 18-December 8, but was extended another 12 days.
Whitmer was asked whether the ban would be extended, and if so, when it would be announced. She did not give an answer to the question, but said December and January will be difficult months for businesses in the state.
The governor accused the federal government of failing to pass a bill to help the state’s small business owners, and said it is imperative for the state legislature to pass a relief plan before the end of the year.
“There are people out there who have spent a lifetime building up their small businesses,” Whitmer said. “They’re hanging on by a thread.”
