The number of new COVID-19 cases in Michigan continues to drop.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, the state’s chief medical executive, Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, says there is cause for optimism, but not necessarily celebration.
“If positive trends continue, we will be able to continue to move forward with the next phases of the MI Safe Start Plan. But I want to caution people, moving forward with reopening the economy does not mean the risk of the disease has gone away.”
Khaldun says it’s important for people to wear masks in public and maintain social distancing guidelines.
The current stay-at-home order is set to expire June 12.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also called on Congress to come up with money for states dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
She says the state has saved millions with pay cuts and furloughs but it’s not enough.
“$80 million in savings is not much when you’re looking at a $3 billion problem. I’m hopeful that our partners in the federal government will do their part and work together to provide relief for states like Michigan.”
Whitmer says money for schools and literacy programs are her top funding priorities.
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