Kalamazoo Times

As another COVID-19 surge begins to spread its way throughout the United States, lessons are still being learned along with efforts to improve planning and response, particularly in Michigan.

Michigan Rep. Matt Hall (R-Marshall) serves as Chairman of the Joint Select Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic. The committee recently heard testimony from a number of experts, including Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Lyon-Callo. The hearing revolved around the state’s policy decisions and the reasoning behind those decisions, according to Michigan House Republicans.

After the testimony, Hall said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration needs to improve its relationship with Michigan Representatives to formulate a better plan for the crisis. The goal would be to minimize the impact of the orders on the lives of people, rather than approve rules that may be well-intentioned but have negative unintended consequences.

Rep. Matt Hall | Michigan House Republicans

“We must get answers on the thought process behind the broad decisions that were made seemingly independent from data and recommendations for outdoor and indoor establishments, large groups and incremental reopenings,” Hall said, according to Michigan House Republicans. “Bars were closed, then opened, then closed again. COVID-19 patients were placed in nursing homes with healthy residents when the data showed the danger of the virus in long-term care facilities. Using a motorboat was banned. What information supported these decisions? Who supported them? It’s important for people in these industries to know what was behind decisions that have directly impacted their lives.”

Hall said a balance needs to be found in keeping people safe while also keeping the state's economy healthy. Too many people have lost jobs and are struggling to keep ahead of bills as the winter draws near. There have also been issues with mental health and people afraid to seek treatment at hospitals because of the coronavirus threat. Hall said state health officials need more information as they address specific areas of the state.

“Good partners communicate and share strategies as they work together. It’s important to open that channel while following all the data and science involved as we take a holistic approach to our response efforts,” Hall told Michigan House Republicans.