Saying Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order expansion this week would put even more people out of work, Niles State Representative Brad Paquette is adding more political distancing to his current practice of social distancing when it comes to their diverging ideas.
Arguing that common-sense adjustments would allow people to stay at work safely, Paquette says 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 30th.
In her expanded order, Gov. Whitmer ordered that stores no longer sell what she considers non-essential items and block off those areas so customers cannot access them. She also said she will not follow the latest 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.
Paquette 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.
Paquette contends, “The governor should align with the federal CISA standards. There are many industries that can go about their business in safe ways. A one-size-fits-all executive order based on who is deemed essential, instead of who can do their job safely, is the wrong approach.” He adds, “I represent countless workers who can perform their job functions while abiding by social distancing protocols. I urge the governor to let them do so.”
Paquette 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.
Rep. Paquette and his staff are working remotely, so they can continue to serve residents during the COVID-19 outbreak. He has been on the phone every day with constituents. You are invited to call his office and they will put you in contact with him directly if you so choose. People with questions or concerns can reach his office by calling (517) 373-1796 or emailing BradPaquette@house.mi.gov.
