A lawsuit challenging Michigan’s temporary ban on indoor dining is set for a hearing in federal court Monday morning.
Michigan’s restaurant industry filed the suit after state health department officials imposed a three week ban on indoor dining November 15. The ban was imposed in response to a recent rise in COVID-19 cases in Michigan.
Since March, Michigan has recorded 350,021 confirmed coronavirus cases, including 9,036 deaths. State data shows almost half of all Michiganders who've caught COVID got it in the last six weeks.
But industry officials say even a temporary ban could have a devastating on Michigan’s bars and restaurants.
A judge has already rejected the industry request for temporary relief from the ban before this week’s hearing.
Some owners have ignored the order. The state responded last week with fines and liquor license suspensions.
The indoor dining ban is set to expire December 9, but it could be extended depending on the status of Michigan’s COVID-19 pandemic.
