State Rep. Aaron Miller today said the governor moved in the wrong direction when she put even more restrictions on people and businesses while extending her stay-at-home order until April 30.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered that stores no longer sell what she considers non-essential items and block off those areas so customers cannot access them. The governor also said she will not follow the guidelines issued by the federal government’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency that would allow more Michiganders to safely return to work while following social distancing guidelines.

Miller, of Sturgis, agrees it is important for people to continue social distancing to stop the spread of COVID-19, but said rather than issuing more restrictions the governor should focus on making common-sense adjustments to allow workers who can safely do their jobs to support their families.

“I’ve simply heard from too many people who have common-sense solutions for their particular business or workplace and I just don’t feel as though they’re being heard,” Miller said.

Miller said he is concerned the governor’s new restrictions will put even more people out of work when there are already so many problems with the state’s Unemployment Insurance Agency.

For example, many seasonal workers and other people who work outside can safely do their jobs now while easily adhering to social distancing guidelines. Miller listed lawn care workers, landscapers and small construction crews as jobs that can be done safely without interacting with others.

Rep. Miller and his staff are working remotely, so they can continue to serve residents during the COVID-19 outbreak. People with questions or concerns can reach his office by calling (517) 373-0832 or emailing [email protected].

###