State Rep. Joe Bellino today joined his colleagues in supporting an extension of Michigan’s coronavirus-forced state of emergency through the end of April – a more practical solution than Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s initial request for mid-June, he said.

“We cannot possibly tell Michigan families that we need to declare a state of emergency two months in advance,” said Bellino, of Monroe. “There are too many unknowns to make that kind of call in early April. I agree the governor needs more time with emergency powers, but the common-sense plan should be to reevaluate as we continue to move forward. We can always extend the emergency order if necessary down the road.”

Rep. Bellino said he also hopes the governor will be more transparent with the Legislature moving forward.

“The safety of our families, friends and neighbors is a top priority,” Bellino said. “And I urge Gov. Whitmer to better communicate with lawmakers as we move forward. The governor steamrolling opinions opposite her own is dangerous – it seems she can find time to go on national news, yet she leaves thousands of Michiganders in the dark. It is still unclear, for example, what is considered essential and non-essential.
“I hope she will work with us, as that is her duty as governor.”

Rep. Bellino 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 via email at [email protected] or vie phone at 517-373-1530.