State Rep. Mary Whiteford, of Casco Township, is calling on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to allow Michigan restaurants to resume indoor dining.

Whitmer’s administration banned indoor dining through an order issued Nov. 18, saying the ‘pause’ would last three weeks. The order already has been extended twice, and it’s now scheduled to run through Jan. 15.

Whiteford said the governor must not further extend the restriction.

“Dozens of local restaurant owners across Michigan have contacted me as they are desperately waiting to return to work and provide for their families and employees, and dozens of other callers are patrons who are eager to support their local restaurants,” Whiteford said. “Local businesses, including restaurants, are the core job creators in the many small towns I represent. It’s time for the governor to listen to her constituents and lift the ban so restaurants may resume safely serving their communities.”

Whiteford said her House district still has dozens of unresolved Unemployment Insurance Agency claims from people who have been unable to get the unemployment insurance payments they need and deserve. This is in addition to those workers who are already receiving payments.

“Local restaurant owners proven that they can operate safely and adhere to proper protocols for employees and customers,” Whiteford said. “They should be allowed to get back to work. I hope the governor will consider what is best for them.”