On April 24, 2020, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) announced at a press conference that she was extending the state’s stay-at-home order through May 15. The order, which took effect March 25, had already been extended once before through April 30.

The new order relaxes some restrictions on businesses and individuals, while establishing a new requirement that people wear non-medical grade face coverings in crowded areas, like grocery stores. The order specifies that no one will face a criminal penalty for going without a mask.

Some businesses previously considered nonessential under the order, like lawn-service companies and nurseries, will be allowed to reopen so long as they enforce social distancing policies. Other companies, like retailers that are not considered essential, can reopen for delivery or curbside pickup.

To date, Ballotpedia has tracked seven pending lawsuits that challenge Whitmer’s authority to enforce some or all aspects of the stay-at-home order.

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