Waterford Today

Rep. Andrea Schroeder (R-Independence Township) published a statement on Michigan House Republicans in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extension of the stay-at-home order.

“Sadly, everyone in Oakland County likely knows someone who has had or tragically perished from COVID-19. Our top mission -- saving lives and doing all we can to limit the spread of this horrible virus -- simply cannot be compromised," Schroeder said in the statement.

“While holding strong and true to protecting public health, we must explore safe and wise opportunities to help families that are struggling financially to stay afloat during this chaotic and challenging time. I will continue to urge the governor to explore best practices from neighboring states that have allowed more people to return to their jobs safely in occupations that do not require contact with customers or coworkers and can easily follow social distancing guidelines."

“I am ready and willing to continue working on solutions to protect public health and allow Michigan families to get back on their feet financially as soon as possible," Schroeder said, according to Michigan House Republicans.

The executive order extends many of the same regulations as the one that preceded it. This includes bans on nonessential in-person work and public gatherings.

In a news conference, Whitmer said, “Now is not the time to pull back at all. It is the time to intensify. That’s exactly what we’re doing,” reported Bridge Michigan.

The executive order includes rules for stores, including at least two hours weekly being reserved for people considered vulnerable to contacting the virus. Stores should have markers to show where customers should stand, at least 6 feet apart. Larger stores have been told to shut down gardening sections, furniture, carpeting, flooring and painting.

Residents are being told not to travel for nonessential or vacation purposes.

“Individuals living in regions of the state that are experiencing little to no growth in infection rates should be able to return to their jobs to support their families if proper safety protocols are put in place,” said Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake), according to Bridge Michigan.