More Michigan Businesses Could Reopen More After Jan. 1: Reports

MICHIGAN — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer this week said she is hopeful more businesses will be able to reopen after the start of the new year, according to reports.

Whitmer reportedly made the claims Tuesday, the same day she signed a series of bills that prohibit water shutoffs amid the coronavirus pandemic and announced programs that aim to assistant businesses impacted negatively by the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

Whitmer said the pause on indoor dining across Michigan eateries has helped curb what had been a spike in new COVID-19 cases. However, she warned that with the Christmas holiday near, people shouldn't drop their guard.

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"We're hopeful that Michiganders do what we did over Thanksgiving, didn't travel as much, didn't gather as much, didn't contribute to as much spread," Whitmer told The Detroit News. "And if that's the case, we could take more aggressive steps to reengage right after the first of the year.

"And that's what I'm hopeful happens. But it's too early to prejudge it. We want to see a little longer trajectory."

Michigan announced last week that high schools will be allowed to resume in-person instruction Jan. 18, but that the state's indoor dining ban was extended to Jan. 15. Casinos, bowling alleys and stadiums are among businesses allowed to reopen, granted with limitations.

"This new order expires on January 15, but if we substantially sustain our progress we will seriously consider lifting protocols sooner," Whitmer said at the time.

Whitmer first announced the restrictions — which included a ban on indoor dining at Michigan eateries, restricted indoor social gatherings and other group activities — Nov. 15 after the state saw a significant uptick in new cases and deaths stemming from the coronavirus.

On Tuesday, Whitmer announced a series of programs aiming to help businesses, such as a liquor buyback program and a partnership that would allow SNAP benefits to be used for prepared food.

The governor also announced the state was funneling $2 million into an eviction diversion program that so far, the state said, has helped an estimated 16,000 people stay in their homes.

She also signed a bipartisan bill prohibiting water shutoffs during the pandemic.

“Every Michigander deserves access to clean water, especially during a global pandemic,” Whitmer said.

“My administration will continue working to ensure clean water for all Michiganders, and I look forward to partnering with everyone who wants to get this done.”