Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced on June 17, 2021 that COVID-related restrictions for capacity, masks and gatherings will be lifted effective June 22. Beginning June 22, capacity in both indoor and outdoor settings will increase to 100 percent and the state will no longer require residents to wear a face mask.
MDHHS Secretary Elizabeth Hertel’s “Rescission of Emergency Orders” provides that most COVID-related restrictions for capacity, masks and gatherings will be ended effective June 22.
The lifting of these restrictions was expected to take place on July 1. However, given that more than 9 million vaccines have been administered and COVID cases are plummeting in Michigan, the timeline has been accelerated.
In addition to the order regarding gatherings and masks, additional orders being rescinded as of June 22 include:
- Temporary Restrictions for Entry into Congregate Care and Juvenile Justice Facilities
- Mandatory Testing for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Juvenile Justice Facility Staff
- Mandatory Testing for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Hospitals and Centers Staff
- Exceptions to Temporary Restrictions on Entry into Congregate Care and Juvenile Justice Facilities
- Exceptions to Temporary Restrictions on Entry into Certain Facilities
- Safe Housing for Housing Unstable Individuals
- Handling of Bodily Remains
- Safe Housing for Michigan Homeless
While state mandates on mask wearing are ending, it’s important to note that individual businesses may still require masks.
In addition, some orders will remain in effect to protect vulnerable populations in corrections, long-term care and agriculture. Certain public health measures also will continue for reporting requirements and COVID testing.
If you have any questions regarding how these developments affect your business or organization, please contact Dave Houston or your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.
Fraser Trebilcock Shareholder Dave Houston has over 40 years of experience representing employers in planning, counseling, and litigating virtually all employment claims and disputes including labor relations (NLRB and MERC), wage and overtime, and employment discrimination, and negotiation of union contracts. He has authored numerous publications regarding employment issues. You can reach him at 517.377.0855 or dhouston@fraserlawfirm.com.