Actions

Gov. Whitmer 'eager to get things more open,' but not sure when it could happen

Posted at 4:00 PM, Aug 24, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-24 16:00:13-04

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Monday morning she is "hopeful" for more re-engagement of our economy, but did not give a timeline as to when that re-engagement may happen.

Speaking to WWJ AM950 on Monday morning, WWJ Anchor Roberta Jasina asked Whitmer if gyms and movie theatres would be reopening soon.

"I’ve not made any decision. I’m not going to announce anything this morning," Whitmer said. "All I can tell you, like everybody, I’m eager to get things more open. We’ve taken great steps, Michigan is in a stronger position than a lot of other states."

Whitmer did say that the state's cases are still higher than 30 cases per million per day, and that's "concerning," but she is continuing to watch the science and listen to public health experts as the state works on protocols for reopening.

"I’m hopeful we can do some re-engagement, but not in a position to announce anything this morning," she said.

Gyms, movie theatres and some other businesses remain closed, and have been since March, as the state remains in phase 4 of the MI Safe Start Plan.

Groups throughout the state have been pushing for Whitmer to reopen those businesses.