Kalamazoo Times

For the past ten months, the state of Michigan has lived under varying states of lockdown that force well-intentioned residents to follow rules that may seem necessary to some but arbitrary to others.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently announced that Michigan's economy has not been closed for the past several months, a statement some Michigan residents would like to argue with. State residents have endured many COVID-19 restrictions as the governor has taken steps to regulate different aspects of their social lives amid the pandemic, promoting the perception that the economy has been closed.

Whitmer’s rules and restrictions often put law-abiding citizens at risk for potentially falling on the wrong side of the law and facing real consequences. With the installment of emergency powers, the state fine went from $200 to $1,000 for violating COVID-19 restrictions. Many residents take issue with the governor putting herself in the position of deciding independently what should be prohibited or what she will allow.

Michigan Capitol Confidential reported on the epidemic orders that have affected people's social lives, including a maximum of 10 people from no more than two households being allowed at an indoor function. Also, no more than 25 people from three different households are allowed at outdoor events. For example, if four friends wanted to play a round of golf, unless two people are from the same household, this would not be allowed under current COVID-19 restrictions.

Michigan law also prohibits gatherings at entertainment and recreational facilities, unless they follow social-distancing standards. Whitmer also allowed schools to reopen, along with restaurants, barbershops, churches and child care facilities.

Michael Van Beek, writing an op-ed for Michigan Capitol Confidential, says the prohibitions cannot be fully enforced, even with the full weight of the county and local government behind them. He believes the restrictions are almost impossible for citizens to strictly adhere to, even if they are trying to do the right thing.

Van Beek says he takes issue most with the governor's approach. While exhorting public responsibility, Whitmer tries to convince Michigan residents that they must do their part, suggesting that public compliance with state guidance is the answer to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, her actions fail to match her words, making it hard to believe her when she insists that Michigan's economy was never really closed.