By Rep. Sarah Lightner of Springport

Today, I joined my colleagues in the state Legislature to take a very important step in the fight against coronavirus. We extended Michigan’s state of emergency status through the end of April.

With this designation, emergency measures aimed at lessening the spread of the virus can continue to be implemented. It’s obvious these measures are needed right now, as more cases arise and more people are lost to COVID-19 each day.

This extension also gives the Legislature an important opportunity to re-evaluate the situation as May 1 approaches. We will determine at that time – based on the best and most current information available –whether the emergency designation should be extended further.

Additionally, it should be noted that this extension is related to the state of emergency and state of disaster executive order — not the ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ executive order, which is currently in effect through April 13. This would require a separate extension, and the governor indicated earlier this week that she does plan to extend that order.

Thousands of Michigan families are suffering as loved ones battle this deadly virus. COVID-19’s ripple effects have upended daily life across our state. There is one thing we should all agree on – ending this pandemic and returning to normalcy as quickly as possible. I am confident the step taken by the Legislature today is a step in the right direction.

These are trying times. My colleagues and I will continue to work hard to find the best solution to maintain the health and well-being of all Michiganders. We will get through this together, Michigan!

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