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Republicans vow to cut Gov. Whitmer's emergency powers

Governor Gretchen Whitmer coronavirus update April 22, 2020
AP
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addresses the state during a speech in Lansing, Mich. on April 22, 2020. The governor made clear that she will extend her stay-at-home order beyond April 30 and that some form of it will be in effect for a "long time" in Michigan, hinting that people age 65 and older and those with chronic lung problems may face restrictions longer than others. (Photo by Michigan Office of the Governor via AP)
Governor Gretchen Whitmer coronavirus update April 22, 2020
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LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Republicans who control the Legislature want to dilute the power of Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

They say they'll meet Friday to pass bills to rein in Whitmer's emergency powers and create a committee to oversee the state’s response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Republicans are unhappy with the breadth of Whitmer’s stay-at-home order, though polling shows the public believes she's made the right calls.

Whitmer is expected to extend it past April 30 but with modifications.

Whitmer's spokeswoman says the governor will veto legislation that hurts her ability to protect citizens.

House Speaker Lee Chatfield says “many freedoms are gone” and Michigan deserves better.

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