Michigan movie theaters and other indoor entertainment venues will soon be allowed to re-open.
Doors closed at cinemas and similar businesses in March during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan.
But while other businesses have slowly reopened in recent months, indoor movie screens have remained dark.
But in her latest order, Governor Gretchen Whitmer says indoor entertainment businesses may reopen starting October 9.
“I know these business owners have made incredible sacrifices during this crisis to protect our families and frontline workers, and my administration will continue working to help them get back on their feet,” says Whitmer.
The order applies to indoor theaters, cinemas, performance venues, arcades, bingo halls, bowling centers, indoor climbing facilities, trampoline parks, and similar businesses.
The order stipulates strict limits on capacity and face coverings will be required.
In a press release from the governor’s office, the CEO of one of Michigan’s largest movie theater chains praised Whitmer’s leadership during the pandemic.
“Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our employees, patrons, and their families. We are eager to reopen our doors with strict safety measures in place and look forward to working closely with the governor and her team as we continue to fight this virus,” says JD Loeks, President of Studio C, Parent Company of Celebration Cinema.
Whitmer also Friday imposed more stringent mask requirements for children in most Michigan schools.
The governor is expanding a requirement for children to wear face coverings in school to the lowest grades.
The governor’s latest executive order requires all students in grades kindergarten and up in in regions 1-5 and 7 to wear a face covering in classrooms. Previously, the state recommended, but did not require, a face covering for grades kindergarten through five.
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