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Recognizing the need to stop the spread of COVID-19 infection, the Governor of Michigan signed Executive Order 2020-21 on Monday, following the lead of other states across the country that have issued similar “stay at home” or “shelter in place” orders. As of March 24, 2020, at 12:01 am, all Michigan residents are ordered to stay in their place of residence, unless their activities meet the criteria outlined in the Executive Order. This order will continue until April 13, 2020, at 11:59 pm.
Employees of certain businesses and industries may also be exempted as “critical infrastructure employees” – but this exemption still only applies to specific activities outlined in the order. While law firms are not included in the list of critical infrastructure businesses, our attorneys at Grewal Law PLLC can assure you that we will continue to be open and available for legal assistance and advocacy.
Because we already have the tools and technologies to successfully work from home, our staff and attorneys will continue providing up-to-date information on any existing cases, as well as perform consultations and begin cases for new clients. We are committed to helping our community through this crisis, and we are working closely with the Michigan courts to ensure that all deadlines and requirements are met or adjusted as necessary.
What Does the Stay at Home Order Mean for Me?
To fully understand Michigan’s “stay at home” order, it’s important to review the Governor’s Executive Order at Michigan.gov, as there are many requirements to keep in mind. If you have questions after reading this document, our team at Grewal Law PLLC is available to answer those questions for you. However, we’ve also provided a quick breakdown of the most important things you should know about the order to stay home.
Limits on Activity Outside the Home
First and foremost, the Executive Order prohibits most activities outside the home. Even though addressing immediate needs and performing essential services is allowed, Michigan residents are required to observe social distancing rules by keeping 6 feet of space between themselves and others at all times. Residents are also encouraged to make use of online and delivery services as much as possible.
Under the order, you are permitted to leave your home for the following activities:
- Obtaining necessary supplies, such as groceries, gas, and medication
- Going outside for physical activity (provided that proper social distancing is observed)
- Visiting the doctor or obtaining essential healthcare services
- Working as a critical infrastructure employee
- Caring for ill or vulnerable family members
- Seeking diagnosis and care for COVID-19 symptoms (on the recommendation of your doctor)
Overview of Critical Infrastructure Services
Only certain services and businesses qualify as critical at an infrastructure level, and they may include:
- Healthcare providers
- Public health agencies
- Law enforcement and public safety professionals
- Emergency services (such as first responders and firefighters)
- Public works (transportation, waste removal, water services)
- Banks and financial services
- Communications and information technology businesses
- Critical manufacturing businesses
- …and many others
Not all workers at these businesses or entities may be classified as “critical infrastructure employees,” so it’s important to review these matters with your employer and contact an attorney if you have any questions about your status. At Grewal Law, we want to help Michigan residents through this difficult time by providing the same quality of responsive legal counsel as before. If you have concerns or questions about any aspect of the “stay at home” order, we invite you to reach out today.
Do you have more questions about the Michigan lockdown order? Call (888) 211-5798 or contact us online right away for a free consultation.