Unemployment
In an update Monday, April 6, Governor Gretchen Whitmer shared they are working around the clock to increase capacity on the unemployment website.
In comparison to the toughest week in the great recession of 2008, 5,000 unemployment claims were filed in one week, whereas 300,000 new claims were filed in one week during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the goal is to get an additional $600 per week for unemployment benefits due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Whitmer says they cannot proceed until they get guidance from the federal government and the ability to get everyone in the queue. Whitmer says she is dedicating resources to make it easier for people to apply for unemployment.
Face Masks & Safety
The CDC is now recommending everyone wear a face mask in public that covers their nose and mouth. You can make your own, or use a kerchief or bandana.
Whitmer reminds people that you can be carrying this virus even if you don’t feel sick, and that just one person who is carrying COVID-19 can infect 40 people in a day during their normal routine. While wearing a mask doesn’t mean you are immune, it’s an added protection. Everyone is still asked to maintain social distancing and adhere to the stay home, stay safe Executive Order.
#DoingMIPart
Governor Whitmer asks that residents show how they are contributing. Some people are cleaning up local parks or finding fun activities to do at home with their kids. Some are donating blood. People are also making homemade masks for themselves or to donate to those in need.
Share how you are helping Michigan during the COVID-19 Pandemic by posting on social media with the hashtag #DoingMIPart.
If you are looking for a way to be involved, visit Michigan.gov/COVID19.
Testing
Michigan continues to see more than 1,000 new cases daily. Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director for Health, shared that at least 15 labs are now able to process COVID-19 tests as opposed to just 1 laboratory a few weeks ago. However, we are not out of the woods. Michigan hospitals continue to be overwhelmed, particularly in Southeast Michigan.
Will the Stay Home, Stay Safe order be extended?
When asked if she plans to extend the Stay Home, Stay Safe executive order beyond April, Whitmer answered that they are looking at an additional order with regard to staying home and staying safe. She says that we are not close to the apex yet, and until we do, it is essential that we continue to be aggressive to flatten the curve.
Whitmer says to anticipate an additional order in the next week, and asks us to stay tuned for that.
