South Michigan News

Michigan, like many other states across the country, is in a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's emergency declaration called "Stay Home, Stay Safe" is meant to protect Michiganders while the virus still remains a threat, but exactly how long that will be is unknown.  

The governor has asked to have her emergency powers extended by an additional 70 days, but State Rep. Julie Alexander (R-Hanover) said the governor's request is excessive in a statement published by Michigan House Republicans.  

"Making the decision to extend the order through mid-June, when it’s now only early April, is excessive and unwarranted,” Alexander said in her statement.

Alexander, however, is not against extensions in general. She said a 23-day extension is practical, and if circumstances surrounding the pandemic's impact to the state warrant more extensions, she would approve.

"It’s too early to make that kind of decision right now," Alexander said, according to Michigan House Republicans.  

Fighting for the health of the public is a top priority, but Alexander said she also needs to consider the economic impact business closures pose to her constituents from Jackson to the Upper Peninsula.

As the fight against COVID-19 continues, communities need transparency from their leaders, and a 70-day extension does not offer that, according to Alexander.

"Making decisions too early -- for two months in advance -- does not offer Michiganders real answers,” Alexander told Michigan House Republicans.  

Essential workers in the state are keeping Michigan moving during the pandemic. And even though the virus's impact nationwide has led to a sense of uncertainty, Alexander said now is the time for Michiganders to be optimistic.

“I have confidence we will overcome these challenging times together, as I have watched firsthand our Jackson community step up to help those in need," Alexander said, reported by Michigan House Republicans.

Alexander is promising her constituents she will continue to request clarity on all executive orders and will approve sensible executive order extensions.

"I can guarantee if the extension does need to go past 23 days, we will cross that bridge when we get there," Alexander told Michigan House Republicans. "Making the call to extend the emergency an additional 70 days right now is the wrong call.”