MICHIGAN GOV. GRETCHEN WHITMER

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the education budget on Thursday, which is the highest state per-pupil investment ever.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order refusing to extradite people who come to the state for reproductive health care.

President Joe Biden just launched new proposals to bring some relief to Americans suffering from high prices at the gas pump.

Protests were held in Detroit in what’s shaping up to be a legal battle over abortion in Michigan.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is pushing for investments that would help students manage their mental health.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has made April 25 through May 1 Student Appreciation Week. The goal is to celebrate Michigan’s young people.

Testimony is back underway this week in the trial of four men charged with plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Testimony is back underway this week in the trial of four men charged with plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Testimony is back underway in the trial of four men charged with plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

A man who pleaded guilty to plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer took the stand to testify against the four others charged in the plot

It was another revealing day in court on Friday (March 18) for the men accused of plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signaled that she is going to veto a halt of the state’s gas tax.

The trial for the four men accused in a plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer could be lengthy. Brandon Caserta, Daniel Harris, Barry Croft and Adam Fox are all facing charges.

Michigan auto workers have lost roughly $51 million in wages this week, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is sounding the alarm.

The city of Windsor is in the process of going to a judge and asking for an injunction to have the provincial police move in and end the blockade; We heard from Windsor’s Mayor Drew Dilkens earlier Thursday (Feb. 10) afternoon.

In her State of the State address Wednesday (Jan. 26) night, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer laid out her priorities, including targeted tax cuts.

In her State of the State address Wednesday (Jan. 26) night, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer laid out her priorities, including targeted tax cuts.

Fresh off a victory with a 7 billion dollar investment from General Motors, Governor Whitmer pitches her plans as she heads into an election year. Because of COVID, Gov. Whitmer did her State of the State remotely. Breaking tradition, Whitmer took her show on the road to Detroit Diesel to give her address.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her annual State of the State address tonight at 7 p.m.

Coronavirus has reached Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s family.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a COVID briefing on Tuesday for the first time since June.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a plan to use $10 million in emergency spending to help residents recover from June flooding.

Federal officials are investigating whether Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s flight to Florida to visit her sick father violated regulations.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration feels vaccinating children will be an important part of moving to the next level of progress.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer received a second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine on Thursday.

On Friday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Oakland County Commissioner Dave Coulter marked the opening of a new mass vaccination site in Pontiac.

Gretchen Whitmer announced new projects regarding Michigan roads that are expected to get underway soon. Officials also announced a new tool to help residents track road projects in their area. The Rebuilding Michigan Plan means work will continue on roads this construction season. AdREAD: More Michigan road coverageWatch the video above for the full report. Michigan 2021 state highway road construction projects: Here’s what’s plannedThe Michigan governor announced a list of 21 state highway road construction projects Tuesday that are planned for the 2021 season through the Rebuilding Michigan bonding program.

The Michigan Militia was first brought to the spotlight after the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. AdTimothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, the men who carried out the attack on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, were said to have attended Michigan Militia meetings. Dr. JoEllen Vinyard, a retired EMU history professor, studied the Michigan Militia in the late 1990s and into the early 2000s. “That was one of their major worries across all the different groups.”The early meetings of the Michigan Militia were attended by McVeigh and Nichols. April 9, 2013: Hutaree members sue FBI, Michigan State PoliceAdArena said militia groups have always been a concern for the FBI.

On Wednesday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer testified before the U.S. Senate regarding what she said is a desperate need for federal funding to fix Michigan’s roads. “I was known for running on and getting elected to ‘fix the damn roads’ in Michigan and I have to say that we need significant investments in our roads and bridges,” Whitmer said. READ: Michigan Gov. Whitmer to Senate: Investment in roads, bridges needed to remain competitive

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is asking state Legislature for $5.5 billion to battle COVID. In a statement, the office said “There is $40 million in the pipeline for release to local public health departments. Local health departments may need to take some actions to accept the funding, but money should be very close to being released.”AdHowever, Frederick said that that is not enough. Whitmer proposes $67 billion state budget that prioritizes pandemic recoveryREAD: Michigan Gov.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – It’s been going on in plain sight for decades, but since the deadly siege on the U.S. Capitol Building, the fight against domestic terrorism has become a top priority. READ: Slain Capitol Police officer honored: ‘We will never forget’Two Michigan Legislatures are taking prominent roles in that fight. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, who served as an expert in militias and terrorism for the CIA, announced Thursday she will bring that experience to combating domestic terrorism. “We have been dealing with this rise of extremism and domestic terrorism long before Jan. 6,” Slotkin said. “That will change.”Both Peters and Slotkin pointed to Michigan’s strong domestic terrorism laws and hope their home state will be used as examples for both the good and bad as Michigan take the lead role in a national fight.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan high schools are allowed to resume in-person learning on Monday as a part of Michigan’s revised COVID-19 order issued before the holiday break in December. Indoor venues where people can remain masked and socially distanced -- movie theaters, stadiums, bowling alleys, casinos -- can reopen without food or drink concessions. READ: COVID-19 restrictions stay the same for Michigan restaurants as other venues prepare to reopenTotal capacity at those indoor venues will be capped at 100. MDHHS continues to urge families to avoid indoor gatherings or to pick a single other household to interact with. And as always: mask up, practice safe social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings where COVID-19 can easily spread from person to person.

In promulgating Executive Order 2020-69 and Executive Order 2020-70, the Governor has done just that by placing restrictions on certain activities to limit social interactions. “Good news, sports fans: We are now ready to gradually and safely allow professional sports to resume in Michigan,” Whitmer said. July 14: State of emergency extendedWhitmer extended the Michigan state of emergency until Aug. 11 as COVID-19 cases rose across the state. The five-year lending, investment and philanthropic plan aimed to help improve financial opportunities for Michigan businesses, consumers and communities. Dec. 29: Relief bill, unemployment extensionWhitmer signed a $106 million relief bill and also extended COVID-19 unemployment benefits through March 2021.

Gretchen Whitmer is reflecting on 2020, touching on the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan roads, the economic crisis, dam failures, a domestic terror plot and protests over racial injustice. “As I think about 2020, the phrase annus horribilis comes to mind, which means a horrible year. But it wasn’t all horrible, cause some really good things happened this year and there are sources of inspiration no matter where you look,” Whitmer said. In this video, Whitmer goes all the way back to the first cases of COVID-19 in Michigan, which were confirmed March 10. It covers the domestic terror plot targeting Whitmer and ends with a look ahead to 2021.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan officials revealed a new list of priority phases for distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in the state. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services updated the phases for essential workers and residents at high risk of severe infection. The recommended guidelines for phases 1B and 1C of vaccine distribution were updated Sunday (Dec. 20) to try to balance prevention and societal function. This data is being tracked on the COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard. The COVID-19 vaccine will require two doses, separated by three or four weeks, depending on the manufacturer.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed two bills that will allow college athletes in Michigan to make money off of their own name, image, likeness and reputation. Michigan is among the first states to allow student athletes to earn such compensation. It’s the first time in state history that college players can financially benefit from their sport while attending school. The bills allow players from any sport in all divisions to use agents to earn money from their own image, name, or likeness. “I am proud to sign this bipartisan legislation today on behalf of our current and future student athletes,” Whitmer said.

Gretchen Whitmer held a briefing Tuesday (Dec. 29) to discuss the state’s handling of COVID-19, a $106 million relief bill, unemployment benefits and more. Gretchen Whitmer signs a $106 million COVID-19 relief bill on Dec. 29, 2020. “I proposed this stimulus plan to the legislature in November because I know how much our families, frontline workers, and small businesses need relief,” Whitmer said. Whitmer vetoes other itemsWhen she signed the relief bill, Whitmer line item vetoed any items not subject to negotiated agreement. Requests for legislationWhitmer makes public requests of the Michigan Legislature during nearly every COVID-19 briefing, and Tuesday was no different.

Michigan’s most recent COVID-19 order has issued, extended and then revised tighter restrictions on the state over the past six weeks. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says the order has greatly improved the COVID-19 situation in Michigan, but does that timeline actually line up?

LANSING, Mich. – The three major metrics Michigan uses to gauge the spread of COVID-19 continue to improve, according to an update from the state’s top health official. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, updated the state’s case, hospitalization and positivity rates during Gov. These regions also have the highest case rates, though both are declining in that regard. As of Tuesday, 13.8% of inpatient hospital beds across the state are being used for COVID-19 patients, Khaldun said. While the numbers improve, nearly 71,000 people have been vaccinated in Michigan, Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s COVID-19 numbers have continued to improve in recent weeks, and Gov. READ: Timeline of how COVID trends have actually changed since Michigan issued, extended, revised order“Since my last press briefing, our numbers have continued to improve,” Whitmer said Tuesday. According to the governor, Michigan’s focus on science-based action, along with cooperation from residents, is responsible for the improving numbers. “Now, because of the actions that we’ve taken, and because so many Michiganders have done their part, our numbers are better than all of our Midwestern neighbors,” Whitmer said. “These numbers are encouraging.”While no announcement was made about further reopening parts of the state, Whitmer said officials are continuing to monitor COVID-19 trends closely to see if they’re affected by holiday travel.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed a $106 million relief bill and also extended COVID-19 unemployment benefits through March 2021. Gretchen Whitmer signs a bill extending COVID-19 unemployment benefits on Dec. 29, 2020. Forty states, including all of our neighbors, automatically provide at least 26 weeks of unemployment relief. Whitmer vetoes other itemsWhen she signed the relief bill, Whitmer line item vetoed any items not subject to negotiated agreement. Whitmer wants the Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits and an increase in weekly benefits.

Here’s what you should know before the governor’s update:MDHHS orderMichigan is currently under a revised order that heightened COVID-19 restrictions. Michigan’s new COVID-19 order now in effect: Here’s what’s reopened and what’s still closedIn mid-December, MDHHS revised the order to reopen certain entertainment venues, such as bowling alleys, movie theaters and casinos, though concessions are not allowed. Latest numbers updateOn Monday, Michigan announced a two-day total of 3,239 new COVID-19 cases and 60 additional deaths. Unemployment benefits will be delayedThe additional $300 weekly unemployment payments for residents who qualify for COVID-19 relief will be delayed in Michigan, officials said. Congress passed a COVID-19 relief package that extends the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation federal unemployment programs.

Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Tuesday on the effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan. READ: Here’s everything you should know about COVID-19 in Michigan before the briefing. Whitmer was joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. You can watch the full replay of the briefing in the video above. Michigan is currently under a revised order that heightened COVID-19 restrictions.

Michigan Gov. (Michigan Office of the Governor via AP)LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed five Senate bills and two House bills into law Tuesday. “Every Michigander deserves access to clean water, especially during a global pandemic,” Whitmer said. House Bill 5481This bill amends Article 26A of the Occupational Code to align with recently enacted federal regulations concerning Appraisal Management Companies.

Michigan restaurants are still fighting to resume indoor dining, which is banned by the state’s COVID-19 order, but Gov. Related stories :Whitmer said she wants to reopen restaurants as soon as she can, but the industry has been on the wrong end of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ restrictions. The owner of Century Bowl, in Waterford Township, said the shutdown order on food and alcohol services at many venues is misguided. Bowling alleys, casinos and other entertainment venues were allowed to reopen Monday, but they can’t serve food or drink concessions. READ: Whitmer commutes sentences for 4 men serving decades in prison for nonviolent crimesPeople aren’t allowed to bowl with anyone other than their families.

Gretchen Whitmer has commuted the sentences of four men who were spending decades in prison for nonviolent crimes. He’s served 22 years, and his earliest possible release date was in 2038. He’s served 21 years, and his earliest possible release date was in 2030. He’s served 22 years, and his earliest possible release date was in 2027. He’s served 16 years, and his earliest possible release date was in 2024.

Gretchen Whitmer along with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced both are ready to start reopening a lot of businesses Monday. The 10 MJR movie theaters across Metro Detroit survived selling take out popcorn. Whitmer is now allowing movie going to a point limited to roughly 30 people in an auditorium. “So the big thing is to get all or our team members back and tested so we’re working with the city health department,” he said. Now, we’re told there are some bowling centers open across Metro Detroit, but again calling ahead is the best answer.

Michigan’s top health director revealed the two “core, science-based ideas” experts are using to decide what should be allowed to reopen and what should remain closed due to COVID-19 in the state. Gretchen Whitmer and MDHHS Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun on Friday to announce an updated COVID-19 order that reopened some venues but extended restrictions on others. As part of the new order, certain entertainment venues that had been closed for the last month can reopen with limited capacity. Restaurants aren’t allowed to resume indoor dining. Gordon said the latest MDHHS order is “based on settled science and Michigan values.”“We are cautiously moving to address other activities based on two core, science-based values,” Gordon said.

Michigan’s new COVID-19 order went into effect Monday and is scheduled to last through mid-January, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the state will “seriously consider” lifting protocols sooner if recent progress is sustained. As part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ new COVID-19 order, certain entertainment venues that had been closed for the last month can reopen with limited capacity. But during Friday’s announcement, Whitmer said the state would consider lifting restrictions sooner if the metrics continue in the right direction. “This new order expires on Jan. 15, but if we substantially sustain our progress, we will seriously consider lifting protocols sooner,” Whitmer said.

“Where are our doses?” Whitmer asked during the briefing. I’m angry because this virus is raging on in this country.”The governor admitted she’s angry about the distribution of the vaccine. Health care workers at the University of Michigan Hospital began receiving the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine Dec. 14. But on Friday, Whitmer challenged the White House, demanding to know more about the doses Michigan had already planned to receive. RELATED: Michigan Republicans ‘condemn’ decision to keep many businesses closed through holidaysShe said there are millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine waiting to be shipped, including in Portage, Michigan.

Michigan officials have outlined three key COVID-19 metrics that need to decline before the state can continue to reopen safely. COVID-19 case rate is the second metric. That’s the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases per million residents in the state. Positivity rate measures whether the state could be missing cases in the community. The Jackson Region has the highest case rate, at 589, and the Traverse City Region is the lowest, at 357.

Michigan’s new COVID-19 order is officially in effect, so here is what reopened Monday, as well as what remains closed. MORE ON RESTRICTIONS :The revised order is in effect through Jan. 15. ReopeningThe updated restrictions allowed many entertainment venues to reopen with limited capacity. Groups are limited to single households of up to six people, MDHHS Director Robert Gordon said. “There will not be changes for highest risk settings of indoor bars and dining where masks are necessarily removed,” Gordon said.

MORE: Here’s everything that’s reopening under Michigan’s revised COVID-19 order“I think this is a glass half full situation,” said Emagine Entertainment’s Chairman and co-founder, Paul Glantz. After weeks of having to abruptly shut down, Emagine theaters -- along with other businesses -- will finally be able to reopen its doors. “Now we’re not allowed to offer our guests food and beverage items, so there will be no concession sales,” Glantz said. And until then his business will continue to follow and practice the procedures necessary to keep movie goers safe. When will Michigan restaurants be allowed to reopen after the most recent shutdown due to COVID-19?

Gretchen Whitmer announced the state is revising its COVID-19 order to resume in-person high school classes, reopen certain indoor entertainment venues and allow non-contact outdoor sports and fitness classes. After her friend Wayne County sheriff Benny Napoleon died from COVID-19, Whitmer said when it comes the vaccine distribution is bottlenecked due to Washington. “My frustration level is high because in Portage there are vaccines ready to be distributed,” Whitmer said. In person learning at high school can resume. However, restaurants and bars will remain closed since patrons need to remove masks to eat or drink.

LANSING, Mich. – Minutes after the state announced updated COVID-19 restrictions, Michigan Republicans released a statement “condemning” the decision to keep many businesses closed through the holidays. Michigan Gov. While some indoor venues where people can wear masks and maintain social distancing will be allowed to reopen, other parts of the economy -- most notably indoor dining at restaurants -- are still banned. READ: COVID-19 restrictions stay the same for Michigan restaurants as other venues prepare to reopen“I am happy to see that Gov. However, officials would be willing to consider lifting more restrictions before Jan. 15 if Michigan makes enough progress, Whitmer said.

(Photo by Richard Bord/Getty Images)LANSING, Mich. – Michigan has loosened COVID-19 restrictions for several indoor venues, including casinos, bowling alleys and movie theaters, but indoor dining at restaurants is still not allowed. In fact, the updated order from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services didn’t change the restrictions on restaurants at all. FROM TUESDAY: When could Michigan restaurants reopen? “There will not be changes for highest risk settings of indoor bars and dining where masks are necessarily removed,” Gordon said. Since dining at restaurants requires people from different households to remove their masks in the same area, it’s inherently risky, Gordon and Gov.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan updated its COVID-19 restrictions Friday, reopening certain parts of the state as metrics across the state improve. Gretchen Whitmer said the state would consider lifting protocols sooner if the state makes substantial progress toward slowing the spread of COVID-19. Here’s a look at what’s reopening:Indoor venuesCertain indoor venues where people can remain masked and socially distanced can reopen without food or drink concessions. Total capacity at those indoor venues will be capped at 100. MDHHS continues to urge families to avoid indoor gatherings or to pick a single other household to interact with.

Gretchen Whitmer announced the state is revising its COVID-19 order to resume in-person high school classes, reopen certain indoor entertainment venues and allow non-contact outdoor sports and fitness classes. Indoor venues where people can remain masked and socially distanced -- movie theaters, stadiums, bowling alleys, casinos -- can reopen without food or drink concessions. READ: COVID-19 restrictions stay the same for Michigan restaurants as other venues prepare to reopenTotal capacity at those indoor venues will be capped at 100. MDHHS continues to urge families to avoid indoor gatherings or to pick a single other household to interact with. And as always: mask up, practice safe social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings where COVID-19 can easily spread from person to person.

UPDATE: Michigan revises COVID-19 order to reopen high schools, some entertainment venuesREFRESHER: 9 major takeaways from Whitmer’s last COVID-19 briefing (Tuesday)Click here to watch Whitmer’s Friday briefing live. Since winter has arrived, most Michigan restaurants aren’t able to serve customers in any sit-down capacity. Vaccine movementThe first group of Michigan health care workers received their first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine on Monday. Most recent numbersMichigan reported 4,024 new COVID-19 cases and 190 additional deaths Thursday, including 125 deaths from a Vital Records review. More storiesHere’s the complete coverage from Tuesday’s COVID-19 briefing:

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Friday on the state’s response to COVID-19. UPDATE: Michigan revises COVID-19 order to reopen high schools, some entertainment venuesThe state has been under a “pause” that placed stricter COVID-19 regulations on restaurants, schools and more, but that order is scheduled to expire Sunday (Dec. 20). You can watch the full briefing in the video posted above. On Friday, Whitmer was be joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, as well as MDHHS Director Robert Gordon.

The FDA’s vaccine advisory panel voted Thursday to recommend the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use authorization. The panel of independent experts has been reviewing the safety, efficacy and implications of recommending the second vaccine. The favorable vote from the panel clears the path for Moderna’s vaccine to become the second approved for use in the United States. Moderna had the advantage of watching the FDA’s review of the Pfizer vaccine and came prepared to answer the anticipated questions. More than 25% of Moderna’s volunteers are health care workers who are now eligible to get Pfizer’s vaccine.

DETROIT – Speaking at a press conference Tuesday Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer noted that statewide COVID restrictions are working and the numbers prove it. But that serves as little comfort to the thousands of Michigan restaurant workers desperate to get back on the job. Whitmer believes the state’s stricter COVID-19 rules, which were extended into next week, are successfully slowing the spread of the virus. The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 442,715 as of Tuesday, including 10,935 deaths, state officials report.

Moderna vaccine expected soonWhitmer said she expects the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to join the Pfizer vaccine in being approved in the next week. “Over the weekend, the first shipments of the FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine left Portage, Michigan,” Whitmer said. Vaccine factsKhaldun took a deep dive into COVID-19 vaccine facts Tuesday, including how effective the vaccines are, when everyone can expect to receive them and potential side effects. Vaccine scamsNessel outlined four specific types of COVID-19 vaccine scams circulating in the state and explained how they’re targeting residents. “In the three weeks since I sent that letter, nearly 2,000 Michiganders have died from COVID-19,” Whitmer said.

LANSING, Mich. – When will Michigan restaurants be allowed to reopen after the most recent shutdown due to COVID-19? Why are restaurants still closed while other types of places are allowed to remain open? Right now, restaurants are limited to carry-out and delivery orders, as indoor dining is shut down through at least Dec. 20. They feel COVID-19 restrictions are inconsistent, with people allowed to go to malls or grocery stores, but not restaurants. “There is a ban on indoor dining, and I think that to the extent that these restaurants are seeing that happen in other realms -- that is unfortunate,” Whitmer said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s attorney general outlined four specific types of COVID-19 vaccine scams circulating in the state and explained how they’re targeting residents. READ: 9 major takeaways from Whitmer’s COVID-19 briefing on Dec. 15Attorney General Dana Nessel joined Gov. Gretchen Whitmer during Tuesday’s briefing to warn Michiganders about scammers looking to capitalize on the COVID-19 vaccine excitement. “Fake vaccine treatments, test kits and clinical trials are just some of those examples of what scammers are going to be putting out there,” she said. Michigan expects the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to join the Pfizer vaccine in being approved in the next week.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official took a deep dive into COVID-19 vaccine facts Tuesday, including how effective the vaccines are, when everyone can expect to receive them and potential side effects. Gretchen Whitmer expects the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to join the Pfizer vaccine in being approved in the next week. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is 95% effective, and is safe. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has been tested in trials, including tens of thousands of people. Residents have to return for a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine three weeks after the first dose.

LANSING, Mich. – Three of the most important COVID-19 metrics are showing positive signs that Michigan is heading in the right direction, the state’s chief medical executive said. Michigan is currently at 560 cases per million people, a number that has been trending downward for 22 straight days, Khaldun said. Case rates for all eight geographical regions are on the decline, she said. Overall, 18.5% of hospital beds in the state have COVID-19 patients in them, which has also declined, according to Khaldun. The percentage of statewide COVID-19 tests that are coming back positive is down to 12.3%, Khaldun said.

Gretchen Whitmer is asking state lawmakers for a permanent extension of unemployment benefits due to COVID-19. READ: 9 major takeaways from Whitmer’s COVID-19 briefing on Dec. 15FROM DEC. 1: Whitmer wants Michigan Legislature to pass permanent extension of unemployment benefitsThe governor took aim at the Republican-led state legislature during her Tuesday (Dec. 15) COVID-19 briefing, urging them to take action on a number of issues, including bipartisan COVID-19 restrictions, unemployment benefits and a $100 million stimulus plan. “I also need them to remember to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits,” Whitmer said. “I appreciate the Senate’s expansion of unemployment benefits to 26 weeks, through March, but we really need to work together to pass a permanent extension to protect the countless Michiganders and their livelihoods.”Whitmer said thousands of Michiganders are in danger of losing benefits at the end of the year. Lawmakers didn’t approve of Whitmer’s emergency orders issued throughout the pandemic, saying she shouldn’t be able to make such decisions without their approval.

Gretchen Whitmer says she is ready to sign a $100 million economic stimulus plan to help families and small businesses struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Yesterday, I sent another letter to the Legislature, urging them to work with me on priorities like $100 million in COVID-19 relief,” Whitmer said. “There are people out there who have spent a lifetime building up their small businesses,” Whitmer said. “We here in Michigan have got to step up and take action,” Whitmer said. Lawmakers didn’t approve of Whitmer’s emergency orders issued throughout the pandemic, saying she shouldn’t be able to make such decisions without their approval.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s governor continues to push for bipartisan support of COVID-19 restrictions, saying 2,000 residents have died from the virus since she sent a letter to legislators three weeks ago. READ: 9 major takeaways from Whitmer’s COVID-19 briefing on Dec. 15Gov. “In the three weeks since I sent that letter, nearly 2,000 Michiganders have died from COVID-19,” Whitmer said. We cannot afford to wait any longer.”Tension between Whitmer and the Republican-led Legislature has existed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawmakers didn’t approve of Whitmer’s emergency orders issued throughout the pandemic, saying she shouldn’t be able to make such decisions without their approval.

Gretchen Whitmer expects the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to join the Pfizer vaccine in being approved in the next week -- so which of the two should people get? READ: 9 major takeaways from Whitmer’s COVID-19 briefing on Dec. 15The governor spoke about vaccines during her Tuesday briefing. “Over the weekend, the first shipments of the FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine left Portage, Michigan,” Whitmer said. “In the next week, we expect the Moderna vaccine to be approved. It doesn’t matter which -- the Pfizer or the Moderna, or maybe others that will come online.

Gretchen Whitmer believes the state’s stricter COVID-19 rules, which were extended into next week, are successfully slowing the spread of the virus. It is working.”Whitmer said the state’s number of COVID-19 cases is decreasing, and that the dip correlates with the day the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued its three-week “pause.”“Simply put, what we’re doing is working,” Whitmer said. High school and college classes were shifted to fully remote formats and most entertainment venues were shuttered for the pause. On Dec. 7, the pause was extended an additional 12 days -- until Dec. 20 -- so officials could gauge the impact of the Thanksgiving holiday. Michigan reported 4,730 new COVID-19 cases and 183 additional deaths (71 from a Vital Records review) on Tuesday, bringing the state totals to 442,715 cases and 10,935 deaths since the start of the pandemic.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Tuesday on the state’s response to COVID-19 and the efforts to slow the spread of the virus. READ: 9 major takeaways from Michigan Gov. Whitmer’s COVID-19 briefingDr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined Whitmer. Nessel revealed on Twitter that she is joining Whitmer to discuss COVID-19 vaccine scams.

LANSING, Mich. – COVID-19 is spreading rapidly among inmates inside Michigan prisons, but the governor outlined eight specific ways the state is trying to combat that spread. She said this is an issue her administration takes “very seriously.” State officials are working with the Department of Corrections to try to make the prisons more safe from the virus. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopeningHere are eight ways Michigan is trying to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in prisons, according to Whitmer:Inmates are required to wear masks, practice social distancing and utilize proper hygienic protocols. Wayne State University provides doctors that serve as the head of MDC’s clinical COVID-19 response. MDC leadership has regular meetings with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to learn more about the virus.

Gretchen Whitmer said when considering whether or not the three-week COVID-19 restrictions need to be extended, the bottom line is: “Do the people do their part?”From Nov. 18 through Dec. 8, Michigan is under tightened COVID-19 rules. In addition to those restrictions from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, health officials are asking Michiganders to wear masks, practice social distancing and wash hands frequently. “We could all do our part right now and take this incredible seriously,” Whitmer said. There is hope that stems from slowly declining case rates and positive momentum for a COVID-19 vaccine. While there’s a great deal of hope, Michigan is also in a “really dangerous moment,” Whitmer said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s three-week COVID-19 order is in effect for four more days, but will it be extended beyond the original expiration date? Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday during her COVID-19 briefing. She called this month and next month possible spreading events. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopeningState officials are working with health systems to understand the severity of the current COVID-19 trends. Every health system in the state has seen growth in hospitalizations compared to a month ago, Whitmer said.

Gretchen Whitmer believes any elected officials who tests positive for COVID-19 should reveal that information. During Thursday’s COVID-19 briefing, Whitmer was asked about COVID-19 diagnoses among state lawmakers. “I think all elected officials, in particular, should make the same exact commitment (to disclose positive tests),” Whitmer said. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopening“If I should take a COVID-19 test that comes back positive, I would absolutely disclose it,” Whitmer said. Whitmer said she has heard there are “quite a few” lawmakers who have COVID-19, and believes it should be a policy to share that information.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official explained Thursday why Black residents have seen such a disproportionate risk of COVID-19 infection. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday during Gov. “It’s really about exposure and what jobs people are doing and what resources they have. Maybe they didn’t have a car and they needed to share rides. “So it’s really about exposure and equity when it comes to why we’ve seen these disparities.”

LANSING, Mich. – COVID-19 case and death rates are still too high in Michigan, but there are three positive signs that the state’s circumstances are improving, according to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. But there are a few positive signs, too, she said. Here are the three circumstances she pointed to as positive signs for the future:Shortened quarantine lengthSlowly declining case rateVaccine progress“This month is already very promising,” Khaldun said. We are seeing signs that the case rate is slowing over the past couple of weeks, and vaccines are coming very soon. The case rate is “still seeing a slight decline in the rate of new cases over the past 13 days,” according to Khaldun.

LANSING, Mich. – A COVID-19 vaccine could become available as early as Dec. 15, according to the top health official in the state of Michigan. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday about the progress health officials have made toward a vaccine that can be distributed to the public. “We’re working directly with our hospitals, local health departments and other partners to plan for when a COVID-19 vaccine will become available, which we expect to be as early as Dec. 15,” Khaldun said. “This is really exciting, and I want people to be, right now, thinking about their plans for getting the vaccine when it becomes available to them.”Click here to view a timeline of when the COVID-19 vaccine could be available to Michigan’s general public. “As more supply becomes available, eventually, the general public will be able to get the vaccine, as well,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the recommended quarantine length has been 14 days, but now, health experts have released a new, shortened quarantine option for certain instances. This week, the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention released new data based on analysis of hundreds of thousands of cases. Experts found 99% of COVID-19 cases will become infectious or develop symptoms within 10 days of exposure. Khaldun said a 14-day quarantine is still “the gold standard,” but health officials will also have the option to allow people who have not developed symptoms to be released from quarantine after 10 days. “So if you’ve had no symptoms after exposure for 10 days, then you can be removed from quarantine,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official revealed the top six types of places linked to COVID-19 outbreaks in the state during Thursday’s briefing. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday during Gov. “We are also still identifying many outbreaks across the state,” Khaldun said. Cases positivity rates in the regions range from 8.5% to 15%, and 81% of ICU beds are full. State officials are working with hospitals to make sure they have what they need to deal with the COVID-19 demand.

Details of the secret group chat held by some of the suspects in the alleged domestic terrorism plot to kidnap and kill Gov. Local 4 Defenders saw the group’s conversation in which one member alerted them that police questioned a former roommate of his in Milford. All defendants on the group chat are from Metro Detroit. Fox reportedly wasn’t told that members believed the suspected domestic terrorist plot had gotten out. Many of the suspects in the alleged domestic terrorism plot to kidnap and kill Gov.

Gretchen Whitmer will extend the “pause.”Whitmer said she’s working with Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and other health experts to examine options. In a press conference Thursday, Whitmer said she is concerned about the amount of Thanksgiving travel and how likely that would impact Michigan hospitals. “So we really are encouraging people not to travel for Christmas and start figuring out how to use Zoom to stay close,” Whitmer said. Despite the dire predictions of a sombre holiday season, Whitmer is encouraged by the promise of vaccines that could be available to Michiganders mid-December. “There is great, great hope on the horizon,” Whitmer said.

Whitmer will be joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. As of Wednesday (Dec. 2), Michigan had reported 373,197 COVID-19 cases and 9,405 deaths. On Wednesday afternoon, Michigan reported 6,955 new COVID-19 cases and 81 additional deaths, bringing the state totals up to 373,197 cases and 9,405 deaths. Michigan health officials have said it’s extremely difficult to contact trace outbreaks in restaurants because of the short duration a patron may spend inside. Michigan football shuts downMichigan football has canceled this weekend’s game against Maryland due to COVID-19 concerns within the Wolverines’ program.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Thursday on the state’s handling of COVID-19. Whitmer was joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. Michigan is currently in the latter third of a three-week “pause” that shut down indoor dining at restaurants, in-person classes for colleges and high schools, and much more. As of Wednesday (Dec. 2), Michigan had reported 373,197 COVID-19 cases and 9,405 deaths.

Many of the suspects in the alleged domestic terrorism plot to kidnap and kill Gov. In court Wednesday, the Null brothers were hoping they might be released right away. The state said the Null brothers are a danger to police, elected officials and to the public. The judge at first denied the request to lower the $250,000 bond for the brothers, and then quickly agreed to change that to a 10% cash surety bond. The judge said if and when the brothers post bond, they will be on a GPS tether, they can work but cannot go anywhere near the governor.

Gretchen Whitmer responded Tuesday to restaurant owners who are considering defying state COVID-19 regulations and reopening for indoor dining if the order is extended beyond three weeks. We are stronger if we stand together and use our strength of fight back.”“She decided to close restaurants, again. Here’s what she said in response to the question:“You know, let me just say this: I understand the frustration. “And yet, we know that this virus has taken the lives of over 9,000 people in Michigan. So many of us know someone who’s died or is struggling with COVID-19 or struggling with COVID-19 months after they’ve had it.

Gretchen Whitmer said indoor dining at restaurants has “all the different ingredients” for increased COVID-19 risk. During the governor’s COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday, Local 4′s Mara MacDonald asked what it would take for restaurants to be allowed to reopen for indoor dining. Right now, Michigan is in the middle of a three-week “pause” that, among other restrictions, limits restaurants to delivery, take-out and outdoor dining. But Whitmer stood by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, arguing restaurants have the potential to contribute to the spread of COVID-19. “That’s just, unfortunately, all the different ingredients for a higher risk situation.”Whitmer said that’s why the MDHHS order targeted places that involve people from different households being inside together.

MUSKEGON, Mich. – A Michigan brewery introduced a new “Big Gretch” beer that shows the governor on the can wearing shades and a chain in the shape of the state. Rake Beer Projects from Progressive Farmhouse Ales in Muskegon, Michigan, announced a petite dry hopped sour saison with mango that’s been dubbed “Big Gretch: The Return.”Click here to visit the Rake Beer Projects website. “What’s more to say, it’s an absolute crusher of a beer with a label depicting our governor rocking some Cartier shades and a 231 Chain. It’s fun, it’s goofy, and it’s a great beer,” the company posted on Instagram. Within 10 minutes of being released, the beer was sold out, according to the company.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan officials have implemented stricter COVID-19 regulations for three weeks, but will the order be extended beyond that timeframe? MORE: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictionsOn Tuesday, during her COVID-19 briefing, Whitmer was asked whether there’s been any talk of extending the pause. “At this point in time, it’s really too early to say precisely where we will be in a few days, much less next week,” Whitmer said. The top priority is to make sure the health system and medical employees are able to keep up with the number of COVID-19 cases, Whitmer said. “That will inform any decision going forward.”Michigan coronavirus data: Tracking case count, cases by county, deaths, cases by age, tests

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official provided a rough timeline of when she hopes a COVID-19 vaccine could be available to the state’s general public. MORE: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictions“We are still working hard on planning for when a coronavirus vaccine becomes available,” Khaldun said. “We are actively working on plans for distribution when these vaccines become available,” Khaldun said. Hopeful vaccine distribution timelineWhen Michigan first receives the vaccine, it will be in very limited quantities, she said. “We hope to be able to have vaccine available to the general public by late spring,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Two of the most common measures of COVID-19 spread in Michigan are showing the state is slowly starting to move in the right direction again, according to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. She said both the case rate and test positivity rate are slightly improving. “Overall, our case rate is now at 608 cases per million people, and has been declining for the past week,” Khaldun said. Khaldun said case rates are above 500 cases per million people in every Michigan region, except for the Traverse City Region. “We will continue to watch these trends, as we have throughout the pandemic, and case rates and test positivity,” she said.

Gretchen Whitmer is urging residents to support local businesses during the holiday season as many of them struggle to survive due to COVID-19 shutdowns. READ: Here are 14 changes in effect under Michigan’s new COVID-19 restrictionsAs the holiday shopping season rolls around, Whitmer urged Michiganders to keep those businesses in mind. “As we head into the holiday season, I want to remind all Michiganders: If you are shopping for loved ones or friends or neighbors, strongly consider supporting businesses in your community,” Whitmer said. On Black Friday, Metro Detroiters stressed to Local 4 how critical the holiday season will be for their businesses to survive. “There are a number of ways that we can support local businesses this season and stay safe,” Whitmer said.

Gretchen Whitmer wants the state Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits as residents continue to deal with the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. “I also urged the Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits,” Whitmer said. “Just yesterday, they invited the Republican colleagues to join forces with them to protect unemployed Michiganders,” Whitmer said. Michigan looks to overhaul unemployment officeThe state of Michigan is looking to overhaul its unemployment office after the director’s sudden resignation. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Michigan unemployment office has worked through significant issues.

LANSING, Mich. – Here’s what you need to know to get caught up on all things COVID in Michigan. “A leading model shows that if we don’t take aggressive action right now, we could soon see 1,000 deaths per week here in Michigan,” Whitmer said. Andiamo owner rallying restaurants to reopenThe owner of Andiamo wrote a letter to Michigan restaurants urging them to defy the state health department’s COVID-19 shutdown orders and reopen. Michigan football on pauseMichigan football paused all team activities Monday due to possible COVID-19 concerns, the university announced. Just two days after hosting Penn State at Michigan Stadium, the team announced all activities are being held virtually.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Tuesday on the state’s handling of COVID-19. READ: What to know about COVID-19 in Michigan ahead of Gov. Michigan is currently in the middle of a three-week “pause” that shut down indoor dining at restaurants, in-person classes for colleges and high schools, and much more. As of Monday (Nov. 30), Michigan had reported 360,449 total COVID-19 cases and 9,134 deaths.

LANSING, Mich. – A day ahead of Michigan lawmakers returning to work in Lansing, mayors and business leaders on Monday called on the federal and state governments for coronavirus pandemic relief as Gov. “I think 2021 and 2022 are going to be some of the toughest times facing municipal governments certainly since the Great Recession, perhaps even worse,” said Michigan State University professor Eric Scorsone during a Monday press conference. Scorsone has done work with Michigan municipalities like Lansing, Flint and Detroit. READ: Michigan governor, state legislature far apart on COVID-19 responseAlso on the table for discussion is the state’s election. There has been no evidence of fraud in Michigan’s election and the Michigan Board of State Canvassers certified the 2020 election results last week.

The owner of Andiamo wrote a letter to Michigan restaurants urging them to defy Gov. “We need to band together and fight this closure,” Vicari wrote. If those efforts are unsuccessful, and the shutdown is extended, Andiamo will reopen Dec. 9, Vicari said. We need to band together and fight back, but we need to do this as a United Group of Michigan Restaurant Owners.”You can read the full letter below. We need to band together and FIGHT BACK, but we need to do this as a United Group of Michigan Restaurant Owners.

Gretchen Whitmer released a video Tuesday asking residents to follow COVID-19 safety rules over Thanksgiving weekend. Whitmer is asking Michiganders to wear masks, practice social distancing, wash hands frequently and avoid large gatherings over the holiday. “Thanksgiving is about taking time to appreciate the things around us as well as give to others,” Whitmer said. We all have a role to play to keep our family, friends, neighbors, and frontline workers safe. Doing this will also protect the medical workers, first responders, and other essential workers putting their lives on the line to protect us.