Rep. Jeff Yaroch of Richmond recently introduced two measures related to the COVID-19 outbreak – one designed to help protect first responders and another in response to Gov. Whitmer’s orders prohibiting Michigan residents from traveling between their own homes.

Yaroch’s House Bill 5704 protects emergency responders by requiring a hospital to notify them if a patient they transported has tested positive for COVID-19.

“The brave men and women on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19 – including police, firefighters, EMS workers and others who are helping get patients to hospitals – deserve our thanks and support,” Yaroch said. “I am proud to introduce a measure that will inform and help protect our first responders. They put their lives on the line for us every day, and that’s especially true as they selflessly help others during this tragic pandemic.”

Yaroch is a paramedic and a former firefighter. He also is an attorney. House Bill 5705 is a response to the Governor’s revised executive order that denies Michigan residents the right to travel to property they pay taxes on, which Yaroch believes may violate the Constitution.

The legislation will prorate property taxes, so Michigan residents are not forced to pay the full bill for second homes that they aren’t allowed to use because of the Governor’s orders. This bill would then reimburse local government for the lost revenue.

Yaroch noted the Governor’s order discriminates against Michigan residents because residents from neighboring states can still travel to their secondary residence in Michigan. “I absolutely believe we should encourage safe practices to lessen the spread of COVID-19 while preserving our basic liberties,” Yaroch said. “It does not have to be one or the other.”