Muskegon Sun

Sen. Jon Bumstead (R-Newaygo) published a statement on the Michigan House Republicans website after two measures were approved by the Michigan Legislature.

On March 10, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer passed an executive order, which declared Michigan to be in a state of emergency. On April 7, the state of emergency was extended until April 30. She has since signed another executive order, extending the state of emergency until May 28, and yet another extension until June 19, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Senate Resolution 114 provides legal challenges if Gov. Whitmer chooses to extend the state of emergency again.

“Unfortunately, COVID-19 will be with us for some time. But Michiganders cannot live under a state of emergency forever,” said Sen. Jon Bumstead, according to Michigan House Republicans. “Families and essential businesses are following CDC guidelines and recommendations. We have seen that we can modify our daily lives to protect ourselves and our neighbors while going about many everyday activities, but the governor refuses to give residents any indication of when or how Michigan will emerge from this state of emergency.”

Senate Bill 858 is one of 28 bills passed, with provisions for students using distance learning, unemployment benefits and liability protections for health care workers who are using innovative treatments to help patients.

This bill also requires businesses that are open to require social distancing. Places of commerce are required to have disinfection and cleaning protocols, provide remote work if possible and provide personal protective equipment for employees.

“Looking forward, I would prefer to see collective discussions on decisions that drastically impact the health and welfare of every single Michigan resident,” Bumstead told Michigan House Republicans. “I hope the governor reverses course and reconsiders her refusal to work with or include the Legislature in these difficult decisions.”

Whitmer is currently being sued for extending the emergency declaration.