Governor Whitmer Extends Executive Order With Some Businesses and Activities Starting to Re-Open

The new order by Governor Gretchen Whitmer opens up sectors of the Michigan economy and some of the recreational activities people enjoy. It is being done in a measured fashion that can be rolled back if necessary (depending on infections/effectiveness). People are going to be happy that some semblance of life will continue forward and some businesses can think of how to open with curbside services. That makes a difference in how confined people feel and could impact perceptions of hope "light at end of tunnel".

We also see that the order is much more detailed than previous orders. It may be that Governor Whitmer is seeking to reduce previous confusion. As we become more aware of the effects and implications of Covid-19 we may also have more exact orders that limit misinterpretation. This is a natural progression in any process of understanding a complex issue and giving directions to others.

What you may notice is that everyone should be wearing something over their face when going into stores and other public places. This may be an attempt to test people working with masks to see if infections rise, stay the same, or continue to decline. If it works well now there may be opening up of other types of businesses in 14 days.

The same thing can be said about curbside pick up and deliveries. This means that stores can start opening to create some cash flow. Those businesses that can master this pre-order, get together, and sell on the curbside will likely be in a better place when this is over. It works best when businesses have websites and e-commerce strategies. People want convenience and curbside pick-up could be an added value service. It might open up a few more jobs for young people that want tip money (like a server).

What you don't see is restaurants re-opening. However, there may be an opportunity for these places to start doing deliveries, selling prepared food in groceries, and other places. That could work if they make a partnership with such places. There are many grocers that want to sell ethnic and local foods to their customers.

Highlights include.....

-Everyone must wear masks when inside stores. Businesses may consider not serving customers.
-Non-essential businesses may open with curb side service. (See details below).
-Bike shops, golf, outdoor recreation, boating, etc... is open again.
-Social distance is needed by everyone.
-Order is until May 15th which is the "gaiting" period recommended by the Federal Government.
-Non-Essential law garden and other items are now open to purchase.
-Orders are in participation with regional governors. Governors Mike DeWine (OH), Tony Evers (WI), Tim Walz (MN), JB Pritzker (IL), Eric Holcomb (IN), and Andy Beshear (KY) will work in close coordination to reopen the economy in the Midwest region.

I would be neglectful if I didn't mention that these changes don't work in isolation but are in conjunction with Federal activities and frameworks. You can see some of those activities of President Trump and the White House HERE. Parties are working together and that is exactly what crisis leadership is about (A whole over topic).

The video will likely provide an easier to understand summary. However if you are a business you may want to check out the actual order for details. As they say, "The devil is in the details".....




The actual executive order is below.....