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(April 24, 2020 5:14 PM)  This afternoon, Michigan Republican and Democratic party leaders issued statements following Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order announcement and today’s legislative session.

Statement from Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake:

“The Senate Republicans first called for commonsense changes to Governor Whitmer’s stay-at-home order weeks ago.  We are pleased to see our Governor follow our lead and restore some reason with this latest executive order, but we believe Michigan would benefit more from a collaborative effort.

Michiganders have proven that they can, and are willing to, adopt safe personal behaviors to protect themselves and their loved ones.  Simple changes like allowing businesses to operate via remote sales and delivery, lifting restrictions on recreational activities, and shortening the length of the order, are all suggestions made by our caucus some time ago and reflect our trust in citizens’ ability to make safe choices.

Today, the Senate Republicans voted to make permanent changes to our state’s emergency laws to ensure a better process going forward.  We expect government to have the tools necessary to act in times of crisis, but changes to the current law are needed to ensure we do not vest too much power in the hands of a single individual and leave no room for balance or input from our citizens.  We doubt the lawmakers who drafted the law decades ago intended for it to be used to suspend our liberties.

The Senate also voted today to create a joint committee of the Legislature.  This committee will review the actions taken by government in Michigan since the outbreak of COVID-19 and make recommendations for how we can be better prepared in the future.

The citizens of Michigan expect government at all levels to work toward solutions.  The Senate Republicans heard from our constituents, presented solutions, and we are encouraged to see our Governor accept some of our input, but there is more to be done. 

Going forward, we expect Governor Whitmer to partner with the Legislature to develop a plan for reopening Michigan.  We are wary of approving any further extensions until we are confident in our ability to provide material input on behalf of our constituents.”

 

Statement from Michigan Democratic Party Chair, Lavora Barnes:

“Governor Whitmer has been handling the pandemic both seriously and properly, despite what Speaker  (Lee) Chatfield may say. Using common sense and the expertise of medical experts, Whitmer and her “stay home, stay safe” executive order has saved lives.

On the contrary, calling a special session to strip the Governor of her emergency powers, is careless and criminal. Representative Chatfield and Senator Shirkey are forcing lawmakers to Lansing, exposing themselves and potentially hundreds of others to the deadly coronavirus. The Republican-led legislature is being reckless and irresponsible, risking lives, to make a political point.

Taking measures to strip Governor Whitmer of her emergency powers, is not only a waste of time, it is dangerous and shameful. Whitmer’s quick, decisive actions in light of the global pandemic has created the best-case scenario for Michiganders to get through this crisis. We continue to stand with the Governor and support her actions that prioritize the health and safety of all of us.”

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