State Rep. Sarah Lightner urged residents to remain calm and follow the stay-at-home order issued today by the governor to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan.

Lightner, of Springport, said the order directs residents to stay in their homes unless they’re working a job in a critical service industry, engaging in outdoor activities, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, like going to the hospital or grocery store. The order takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday and will last for at least the next three weeks.

“The number of cases in Michigan skyrocketed from zero to more than 1,000 in just 13 days,” Lightner said. “We must take limiting the spread of coronavirus very seriously. We can all do our part by staying home as much as possible and following the advice of medical experts. Please, heed their warnings and take preventative measures, such as washing your hands often, cleaning frequently touched services and practicing social distancing.”

Lighter stressed that Executive Order 2020-21 allows critical operations such as banks, grocery stores and gas stations to remain open. Restaurants will also be allowed to remain open for take-out food services. According to the order, the critical workforce includes jobs in sectors such as health care, public safety, food and agriculture, public works and energy services.

Reliable information about COVID-19 can be found at www.michigan.gov/coronavirus and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Residents with health-related questions can also call Michigan’s coronavirus hotline at 1-888-535-6136 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or email [email protected].

Lightner said her office remains ready to serve residents and answer their questions, though staff is working remotely. Residents can continue to reach her office by calling (517) 373-1775 or emailing [email protected].

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