On June 18, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-127, extending the State of Emergency in Michigan through July 16, 2020. In that order Governor Whitmer stated, “On June 10, I moved the Upper Peninsula and the region surrounding Traverse City to Phase 5, allowing for the reopening of movie theaters, gyms, bowling alleys and other businesses. If current trends persist, I hope to move the rest of the state to Phase 5 by July 4.” That simple statement gave some hope that more of the requirements in the various Executive Orders would be eased this week. Unfortunately, the recent spike in Michigan cases prompted the Governor to declare on June 24, 2020, that the rest of the state would not be moving to Phase 5 this week. Currently, the state’s website shows the Upper Peninsula and a portion of the northern Lower Peninsula to be in Phase 5 (low risk) and the rest of the state in Phase 4 (medium risk).
This has caused some confusion about employees returning to the office. The following is a recap of Michigan’s current status regarding returning to work.
The Order also directs employers to provide to their employees COVID-19 training that covers, at a minimum:
Most of you are familiar with these directions by now, but if you still need to develop a preparedness plan, or if you need the materials for employee training, Warner can help. Contact your Warner attorney or any member of Warner’s Labor and Employment Practice Group.