Governor Lifts Stay Home Order
Governor Gretchen Whitmer today issued Executive Order 2020-110, which lifts the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order that has been in place since 3/24/20. While some businesses that involve close contact and shared surfaces will remain closed, retailers will be allowed to reopen on June 4 and restaurants and day camps for children will be reopened on 6/8/20, all subject to safety guidance to mitigate the risk of infection.
This latest step in the process of gradually resuming in-person work and activities continues to require that, where possible, work be performed remotely. Employers are still required to abide by the workplace safeguards in Executive Order 2020-97 for in-person work. Individuals are still required to follow social distancing measures and wear a face covering. Indoor social gatherings are restricted to 10 people and outdoor social gatherings are restricted to 100 people.
MMA has been a strong advocate for continued engagement of Michigan’s economy. Today’s action will further help support the resumption of manufacturing operations by providing some solutions to the childcare needs of workers. We will continue to work closely with the Whitmer Administration and legislative leaders to address the challenges manufacturers face as we scale up operations in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact MMA’s Mike Johnston, at johnston@mimfg.org or 517-487-8554, to share your thoughts and to learn more about MMA’s efforts to secure Manufacturing Relief Options for Economic Recovery.
New & Notable
COVID-19 Manufacturing Industry Guidelines
MIOSHA launched a new webpage with safety guidance for a number of industries, including manufacturing. Following the issuance of over 100 executive orders related to COVID-19, this new website is intended to help manufacturers and other employers locate and understand current requirements for workplace safety and health. The site also includes a number of helpful training videos, sample posters and fact sheets to help employers comply with state and federal workplace safety requirements.
CDC Releases Tools to Support Employers Reopening
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new tools for businesses and workplaces as they plan to resume in-person operations as state restrictions are lifted. The new site includes decision-making tools, recorded conference calls discussing current CDC guidance and communication resources for employers.
New Statewide Platform to Connect Employers with PPE Producers and Suppliers
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC) have developed a portal designed to support the personal protective equipment (PPE) needs of Michigan businesses as the state continues the process of gradually resuming in-person work and activities. The free PMBC COVID-19 Procurement Platform, will connect those businesses in need of PPE — including face masks, face shields, gloves, goggles and other materials as necessary to ensure the health and safety of their employees and customers — with Michigan businesses that have supplier capacity to meet that demand.
In Case You Missed It: UIA Work Share Webinar
If your company is struggling with questions about payroll costs and bringing laid off workers back on site, Michigan’s UIA Work Share program could be the answer you’re looking for. Check out the one-hour webinar hosted by MMA or go online to access the UIA Work Share Tool Kit and register for future webinars to ask questions of the UIA team.
Resources for Manufacturers
Rehmann Offers Manufacturing Back to Business Webinar Series
MMA Premium Associate Member Rehmann has developed a three-part webinar series to help manufacturers get Back to Business as states begin to lift restrictions on in-person work. Access recordings of webinars and materials on critical topics like Workforce & HR Strategies, Cash Flow Management, Loan Forgiveness & Tax Provisions, and IT Security & Continuity Planning at rehmann.com/industries/manufacturing.
MMA President & CEO John Walsh Featured in Webinar on International Contract Issues
Friday, June 12 • 2:00 p.m.
Register online.
Exporters across the U.S. have been profoundly impacted by the current crisis. Supply chains, workforce issues and local health rules may impact your ability to meet requirements of existing international contracts. Join MMA President & CEO John Walsh and others for advice on mitigating problems with international contracts resulting from the current global crisis.
Highlights include:
- Practical advice to companies from the State Bar of Michigan, International Law Section experts
- Discussion on what to do about existing contracts and ideas for drafting future contracts
- Takeaways include a checklist of tips for reviewing future international contracts
Find additional resources, including upcoming webinars, member-provided tools and the latest regulatory developments on MMA’s COVID-19 Resources.