As the 100th Legislature prepares to adjourn, there is so much that has happened, and we have so much left to accomplish in these few short days.

Our friends and neighbors, the people who have sponsored so many local events and sports teams, are on the ropes.  When Director Gordon extended the two-week “pause,” it was widely seen as another nail in the coffin for restaurants in our community and throughout the state.  Instead of working with the Legislature, Governor Whitmer and Director Gordon issued unilateral orders that punished Michigan’s small businesses.  Forty-five other states have figured out how to have safe dining, yet our DHHS director still can’t seem to figure it out.  Personally, I don’t think it’s acceptable for the Legislature to adjourn without taking action to combat these overreaching orders. 

The first bill in our response to these orders is House Bill 6506.  This bill would prohibit state government from forcing a business to close by rule, regulation, or order if that small business is complying with health and safety precautions. 

Additionally, House Bill 6507 and Senate Bill 1253 have been introduced and are moving.  Those bills would limit emergency orders issued by the department to control an epidemic to just 28 days. After 28 days, an emergency order issued in response to an epidemic must be approved by a resolution in both the House and the Senate.

Doing nothing isn’t an option, and I’m hopeful enough Democrats join Republicans in passing this commonsense legislation.  All coupled together; these bills will force state government to work together instead of just one person, branch, or party going it alone.

In addition to the bills listed above, we will also extend the deadlines for drivers’ licenses to unemployment benefits. It’s been an honor serving in the historic 100th Legislature, and I’m confident we will deliver for the people of our state in the remaining days of this term.