Governor Signs Order Creating Eviction Diversion Program

by | Jun 29, 2020 | Uncategorized

Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Creating Eviction Diversion Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2020
Contact: [email protected]

Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Creating Eviction Diversion Program

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Whitmer today signed Executive Order 2020-134 extending the temporary suspension of evictions until July 15 and creating the Eviction Diversion Program, which outlines a process for renters to get fast rental assistance or establish a manageable payment plan to keep Michiganders in their homes. Rental assistance under the Eviction Diversion Program will be available beginning July 16.

“No Michigander should have to worry about losing their home during a global health pandemic and, at the same time, landlords and management companies need rent from their tenants to sustain their businesses,” Governor Whitmer said. “This innovative new program will save lives, save money, and save businesses by keeping families in their homes and providing immediate financial relief to landlords for back rent they’re due.”

Under Executive Order 2020-134, $50 million of rental assistance will be made available in the form of lump sum payments to landlords in exchange for allowing tenants to remain in their homes, forgiving late fees and up to 10% of the amount due. Tenants whose back rent is not completely covered by the Eviction Diversion Program will be entered into manageable payment plans facilitated by Supreme Court Administrative Order 2020-17.

The program was created following the passage of Senate Bill 690, which passed unanimously out of both the Michigan House and Senate on June 17. The legislation appropriated $60 million in Coronavirus Relief Funding to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity for the creation of a rental assistance program to assist tenants and landlords after the eviction moratorium concludes.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

To view Executive Order 2020-134, click the link below:

Task Force to Protect Nursing Home Residents and Staff from COVID-19

Task Force to Protect Nursing Home Residents and Staff from COVID-19

by | Jun 29, 2020 | Uncategorized

Governor Whitmer Creates Bipartisan Task Force, Takes Action to Protect Nursing Home Residents and Staff from COVID-19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2020
Media Contact: [email protected]

Governor Whitmer Creates Bipartisan Task Force, Takes Action to Protect Nursing Home Residents and Staff from COVID-19

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed executive orders to protect Michigan Nursing Home residents and staff from the spread of COVID-19. Executive Order 2020-135 creates the bipartisan Michigan Nursing Homes COVID-19 Preparedness Task Force within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The governor also signed Executive Order 2020-136, which extends existing safety measures to maintain restrictions regarding entry to care facilities designed to protect vulnerable populations. Since it was first issued on March 14, this order has prohibited entry into a nursing home without undergoing a rigorous screening protocol designed to protect facilities from COVID-19.

“We have taken great strides here in Michigan to protect families from the spread of COVID-19 and lower the chance of a second wave, but it’s crucial that we stay vigilant and work around the clock to protect our most vulnerable residents and those who have dedicated their lives to caring for them,” said Governor Whitmer. “These actions will help our state protect more nursing home residents and staff in the case of a second wave. Moving forward, I will work closely with the task force and with everyone who wants to help us protect our most vulnerable communities, the heroes on the front lines, and our families from this virus.”

The Michigan Nursing Homes COVID-19 Preparedness Task Force will be charged with, among other things, analyzing relevant data on the threat of COVID-19 in nursing homes, and making recommendations to the governor on improving data quality, and releasing periodic reports to the governor on its findings and recommendations. The task force must produce a recommendation to the governor for an action plan on how to prepare nursing homes for any future wave of COVID-19 cases by August 31, 2020.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a particularly dire threat to the health and safety of residents and employees of long-term care facilities across the country,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director for Health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “This task force will help us continue to work to protect our most vulnerable residents and the caretakers serving on the front lines.”

“The impact of COVID-19 on nursing home residents has been especially tragic,” said Paula D. Cunningham, State Director of AARP Michigan. “I am optimistic this bi-partisan Taskforce will identify best practices to ensure that nursing home residents and staff are better served and protected going forward.”

“SEIU Healthcare Michigan’s nursing home workers are essential and continue to put their lives at risk by going to work daily,” said Andrea Acevedo, President of SEIU Healthcare Michigan. “We believe that every nursing home worker deserves the support, resources and protections to keep themselves, their families and their communities safe throughout this pandemic and beyond. The Michigan Nursing Homes COVID-19 Preparedness Task Force is one of many steps needed to ensure that protection, health and safety standards across the nursing home industry are met. And the most transformative work we can do to ensure the highest quality of care for residents and for workers, is by allowing our frontline nursing home workers to have a voice and seat at the decision making table.”

The Task Force will consist of leaders across state government, including representatives from DHHS and LARA. The task force will also include a representative of the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, bipartisan representation from both houses of the legislature (2 members from each house), and thirteen other members appointed by the governor, including individuals with a personal or professional interest in the health, safety, and welfare of nursing home residents and workers.

Executive Order 2020-136 maintains restrictions on visitation to health care facilities, residential care facilities, congregate care facilities, and juvenile justice facilities, but authorizes the Department of Health and Human Services to gradually re-open visitation as circumstances permit. This order has been in place since March, and consistently prohibited entry into a nursing home by a person exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. The order is effective immediately and continues through July 24, 2020.

To view Executive Orders 2020-135 and 2020-136, click the link below:

Mortgage Relief Options, Insurance During American Housing Month

by | Jun 25, 2020 | Uncategorized

Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Promotes Mortgage Relief Options, Insurance During American Housing Month

Contact: Laura Hall 517-290-3779

June is American Housing Month and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is raising awareness about ways Michiganders can protect their homes through lender programs for those impacted by COVID-19 and through insurance policy reviews to make sure they have the coverage they need before they need it.

“It is important to make sure homeowners understand how to financially protect their homes, especially as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “American Housing Month is a great opportunity to review lender programs and insurance policies to make sure you have the financial protection you need all year long.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound financial impact on many homeowners, and help is available. DIFS has compiled information for Michigan homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments in a publication available online. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Economic Security Act provides help to those with federally backed mortgages, giving homeowners forbearance options and protection from extra fees or interest. In addition, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and DIFS launched the MiMortgage Relief Partnership, a cooperative agreement between more than 230 banks, credit unions and mortgage servicers in Michigan to provide mortgage relief to Michigan homeowners experiencing a COVID-19 related financial hardship. Learn more about the MiMortgage Relief Partnership at Michigan.gov/MiMortgageRelief.

“No one facing financial hardship due to this pandemic should lose their home, and DIFS is working hard to provide guidance to affected borrowers during this unprecedented time,” said Fox. “Homeowners experiencing difficulty paying their mortgage should contact their lender right away to learn what relief options they have available.”

Homeowners should also consider reviewing their insurance policies with their agent or insurance company to understand their coverage and any new discounts available, including for recent home improvements or going without a claim for a certain amount of time. This insurance review is a good opportunity to understand the risks you may still face and consider adding new coverage, for example to cover flood damage or water back-up. Additional information about homeowners insurance is available on the DIFS website.

Consumers who need assistance with their insurance or financial services company can also contact DIFS Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 877-999-6442, or file a complaint at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.

Information around the COVID-19 outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan citizens. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/difs or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

Quick tips for safe, responsible Fourth of July fun

Quick tips for safe, responsible Fourth of July fun

by | Jun 25, 2020 | Uncategorized

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two people fishing from a boat, profiled in sun and shadow
June 25, 2020
Media contact: [email protected]

Quick tips for safe, responsible Fourth of July fun

Warmer weather is calling, but things look a little different this year due to COVID-19. We’re providing information to keep you and Michigan’s natural resources safe, along with options for staying local and socially distant, while enjoying your favorite outdoor spaces over the July Fourth weekend.

We are committed to providing visitors with safe, clean outdoor spaces and memory-making experiences. Just this past Monday, we reopened state park campgrounds with new health and safety protocols in place. While we do our best behind the scenes, please do your part to protect yourselves and others while enjoying the outdoors:

  • Go out only if you’re feeling healthy.
  • Stay at least 6 feet from people who aren’t from your household, and wear a face covering when in enclosed indoor spaces.
  • Follow operational and sanitation guidelines. Some processes, like checking in and using bathroom facilities at DNR-managed sites, may vary by location. For example, visitors are encouraged to pay by debit or credit card to decrease the exchange of money.

Also, some amenities at a handful of DNR locations remain closed due to delayed construction projects. Get the latest closure updates from the DNR’s COVID-19 response page.

Here is some additional information to ensure a fantastic Fourth:

Be mindful of beach and boating safety warnings

Record-high water levels are causing increased river flows, submerged docks and piers, swimming and boating hazards and other concerns. Learn more about the effects of high water and how to stay safe at Michigan.gov/HighWaterSafety.

The Great Lakes are large, powerful bodies of water that demand respect and caution from boaters, swimmers and paddlers. Have a great time in the Great Lakes, but visit Michigan.gov/BeachSafety for safety tips before heading out.

Be aware, too, that DNR conservation officers will have a larger presence on the water now until after the July Fourth holiday; it’s all part of Operation Dry Water, a national campaign to promote sober boating.

Know the rules for smoother trail treks

Whether hiking, biking, on horseback or riding an ORV, trail courtesy and etiquette are easy if you know what to do. Here are some tips:

  • Don’t create your own trails or shortcuts; this can cause erosion and damage habitat.
  • When meeting an equestrian, slow down and announce yourself so the horse recognizes you as human and not a predator. Stand back and let the horse pass; equestrian users have the right of way.
  • Keep to the right side. When approaching others from behind, announce your approach. It’s common to say “on your left” when passing.
  • See more tips and a video about trail etiquette from the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.

Here are some resources if your plans include biking or off-roading:

Do your part to prevent wildfires

Dry weather means a higher risk of accidentally starting a wildfire. Never launch fireworks toward forests or fields; dry grass or leaves could ignite. Dispose of used sparklers in a bucket of water.

Burn only wood in your campfire to avoid toxic fumes. When it’s time to put out the fire, thoroughly douse it with water, stir the ashes and douse again. Get more fire prevention tips and, if you plan to burn yard debris at home, get permission first at Michigan.gov/BurnPermit.

Take easy steps to protect woods, water and wildlife

  • Follow the laws to prevent the spread of invasive species in Michigan waters, and be sure to clean, drain and dry boats and trailers.
  • Don’t move firewood or bring it with you. Hauling firewood from one part of the state to another can transport insects and diseases that may kill native trees. Buy firewood locally and don’t take home any leftovers.
  • Remove plants, seeds and mud from boots, pets, vehicles and gear before leaving a recreation site, and take the PlayCleanGo message to heart as you spend more time outdoors this summer.
  • Be cautious near islands and other shoreline areas. Loons, wood ducks, trumpeter swans and dozens of other nesting birds need quiet water to maintain their nests and raise their young. Watch for signs and buoys that mark nesting areas or other spots that could be damaged by wakes or high-speed boat operation.
  • Ducks, geese, eagles, loons, turtles and other animals can get tangled in fishing line, plastic can and bottle rings, and other litter. Help keep our water clean and wildlife safe by taking out any trash that you bring in with you.

Map your next fishing, hiking or boating adventure

Looking for something local or with more space to spread out? Check out Michigan.gov/YourLocalOutdoors – a “one-stop shopping” map where you can enter your address and find fishing, boating and trails nearby. You also can look at your city, county or local convention and visitors bureau websites for close-to-home options.

Things to know before you go

  • The Recreation Passport is needed for vehicle entry to state parks, state forest campgrounds and state-managed boating access sites.
  • Anyone 17 or older must have a valid Michigan fishing license to fish. If you’re under 17 you can fish without a license, but still need to observe all fishing rules and regulations. An adult actively assisting a minor who does not have a license must have a fishing license.
  • Before hitting the trails, purchase an ORV license or trail permit online.
  • Think about what you’ll need for your adventure, and grab the right gear (including hand sanitizer). To get you started, REI offers a checklist for day hiking and other helpful lists for a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Many people like to swing by some state parks just to catch nearby evening fireworks displays. This year, however, the DNR will close state park day-use areas at 10 p.m. to help reduce crowds.
  • Finally, remember to pack your patience. Although many of your favorite outdoor spaces are reopening, some important restrictions (like wearing a face covering when inside enclosed indoor places and not congregating in large groups) are still in place for the safety and protection of visitors, volunteers and staff.
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions  

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions  

by | Jun 25, 2020 | Uncategorized

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Banner - headshot with bridge graphic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 25, 2020
Contact: press@michigan.gov

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced the following appointments to the Mackinac Bridge Authority, Michigan Board of Nursing, Michigan Board of Pharmacy, and the Governor’s Educator Advisory Council.

Mackinac Bridge Authority

Marianna Caroline Cheeseman, of St. Ignace, is the director of compliance for the First National Bank of St. Ignace. She holds a Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Accounting from Northeastern University. Ms. Cheeseman is appointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing July 1, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2026. She succeeds Brad Canale whose term expires June 30, 2020.

William G. Milliken, Jr., of Ann Arbor, is the owner of Milliken Realty Co. and a trustee with Washtenaw Community College. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Colorado College. Mr. Milliken is appointed to represent Independents for a term commencing July 1, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2026. He succeeds Matthew McLogan whose term expires June 30, 2020.

The Mackinac Bridge Authority is committed to preserving and maintaining the state of Michigan’s single largest asset and one of the world’s leading suspension bridges to provide safe, pleasurable, and expedient passage over the Straits of Mackinac for economic benefit and improved quality of life.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Board of Nursing

LeQuay S. Brown, of Detroit, is a licensed practical nurse with West Oaks Senior Care and Rehab. She holds a certified nursing assistant certificate from the Barnabas Health Care School and a diploma from the practical nursing program at Dorsey Schools. Ms. Brown is appointed to represent licensed practical nurses for a term commencing June 25, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2023. She succeeds Alana Thomas whose term expired June 30, 2019.

Kimberly S. Lindquist, Ph.D., of Monroe, is the dean of health sciences and the director of nursing at Monroe County Community College. She holds a Ph.D. in Nursing Leadership from Walden University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo. Dr. Lindquist is appointed to represent registered professional nurses with a master’s degree who are engaged in nursing education in a licensed practical nurse program, for a term commencing July 1, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2024. She succeeds Mary VanderKolk whose term expires June 30, 2020.

Lori Long-Poloni, of Beulah, is a registered professional nurse and the patient aligned care team manager at the Veterans Administration Traverse City Community Base Outpatient Clinic. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Madonna University. Ms. Long-Poloni is appointed to represent registered professional nurses with a baccalaureate degree who are engaged in nursing practice or nursing administration, for a term commencing July 1, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2024. She succeeds Joshua Meringa whose term expires June 30, 2020.

The Michigan Board of Nursing was created to establish qualifications for nurse licensure, to establish standards for education and approve nurse education programs, develop and implement criteria for assurance of continued competency, and take disciplinary action against licensees when the health, safety, and welfare of the public has been adversely affected.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Board of Pharmacy

Kyle A. McCree, of Grand Blanc, is a community affairs manager for Consumers Energy. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Minnesota. Mr. McCree is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing June 25, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2021. He succeeds Mary Ann Victor who has resigned.

Michael A. Sleiman, PharmD, of Dearborn, is the pharmacists in charge at True Wellness Pharmacy in Van Buren Township. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy from the Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy. Mr. Sleiman is appointed to represent pharmacists for a term commencing July 1, 2020 and expiring June 30, 2024. He succeeds James Stevenson whose term expires June 30, 2020.

The Michigan Board of Pharmacy was enacted as part of the Public Health Code to oversee the practice of pharmacy as a health service, the clinical application of which includes the encouragement of safety and efficacy in the prescribing, dispensing, administering and use of drugs and related articles for the prevention of illness and the maintenance and management of health. The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board including promoting and protecting the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Governor’s Educator Advisory Council

Eva Coleman, of Southgate, is a social issues and African American studies teacher at César Chávez Academy High School. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Technology and a Master of Arts in Social Justice from Marygrove College. Ms. Coleman is appointed to represent teachers for a term commencing June 25, 2020 and expiring May 9, 2024. She succeeds Anne Markey whose term expired May 9, 2020.

Angela Perez, of Muskegon, is a Spanish two-way immersion teacher for Muskegon Public Schools. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Bilingual Education from Aquinas College. Mrs. Perez is reappointed to represent teachers for a term commencing June 25, 2020 and expiring May 9, 2024.

Mandy R. Stewart, Ph.D., of Charlotte, is the superintendent of Charlotte Public Schools. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Wayne State University. Dr. Stewart is reappointed to represent administration for a term commencing June 25, 2020 and expiring May 9, 2024.

The Governor’s Educator Advisory Council was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order No. 2019-09. The Council will review and make recommendations regarding legislation relevant to this state’s public education system, identify and analyze issues impacting the effectiveness of Michigan’s public education system, identify best practices in public education and recommend corresponding changes and improvements to Michigan’s public education system, and provide other information or advice relevant to public education.

These appointments are not subject to advice and consent of the Senate.