Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gave her Thursday briefing on the state's Covid-19 conditions outdoors and without a mask, in keeping with her announcement that most Covid restrictions will be lifted starting June 1.
Speaking at Dow Diamond in Midland, Whitmer said the state restrictions will be adjusted to align with CDC guidance. Accordingly, all restrictions on outdoor activities will be lifted June 1, she said. Indoor activities will be allowed at 50 percent capacity.
And July 1, the state will lift mask and gatherings orders.
"We look at this as the last moment," of the Covid crisis, Whitmer said. "We can sing at church, dance at weddings, hug each other and laugh together. For the most part, life will be back to normal."
Whitmer, and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, both underlined the importance of continuing to push vaccinations statewide.
"These vaccines are safe," she said. They "represent hope and healing."
Finally, Whitmer asked Michiganians to "extend grace" to one another, as the orders are lifted.
"Everyone processes change at different speeds and different ways," she said, asking that there be "no shaming or guilt-tripping" for residents who may or may not continue to wear masks.
The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association issued a statement Thursday, saying it "welcomes the clear guidance today from MDHHS towards Michigan’s full economic reintegration and takes solace in knowing that our advocacy on behalf of event and banquet centers will prevent the outright loss of another wedding, graduation and conference season."
