On August 27, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-172, “Protecting workers who stay home, stay safe when they or their close contacts are sick,” rescinding Executive Order 2020-166. Most notably, Executive Order 2020-172 updates the list of principal symptoms of COVID-19. Under Section (7)(a) of the Order, the definition of “principal symptoms of COVID-19” now includes:
- Any one of the following not explained by a known medical or physical condition:
- Fever
- An uncontrolled cough
- Shortness of breath
OR
- At least two of the following not explained by a known medical or physical condition:
- Loss of taste or smell
- Muscle aches (“myalgia”)
- Sore throat
- Severe headache
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
You should review your Preparedness and Response Plan and screening questionnaire to determine if updates are necessary based on the new principal symptoms of COVID-19 in Executive Order 2020-172.
The earlier requirements of Executive Order 2020-166 were restated in Executive Order 2020-172, including: quarantine requirements for individuals testing positive or displaying principal symptoms; quarantine requirements for individuals who have been in close contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19 or displays principal symptoms; a prohibition that employers may not discharge, discipline or otherwise retaliate against an employee for staying home; and the leave requirements under the Paid Medical Leave Act (PMLA). Additional information regarding these requirements can be found here.
If you have any questions regarding the change to the principal symptoms of COVID-19, please contact any member of Warner’s Labor and Employment Practice Group.