MDHHS extends restrictions on restaurants with no public mention

LANSING, Mich. (WLUC) - The state health department has extended restrictions on indoor dining at restaurants until March 29, but made no public mention of it.

This comes from the epidemic order on Feb. 4 that allowed indoor contact sports to resume. However, the order also extended the 25% capacity limit and 10 p.m. curfew just three days after it went into effect.

The governor has made no mention of the extension in three press conferences within the last two weeks. MDHHS has confirmed to TV6 that restrictions are extended through March 29.

“It’s been fairly quiet,” said Marty Fittante, InvestUP CEO. “I think it has taken businesses by surprise.”

“There’s at least a history of the deadline not always dictating when thing will change,” said Justin Winslow, Michigan Restaurants and Lodging Association CEO.

On Thursday we will have more reaction from the restaurant industry including a new data-driven proposal made to the governor on Wednesday.

This comes as small business across Michigan are receiving over $52.5 million in coronavirus relief grants from the state’s small business program.

According to InvestUP, Upper Michigan will receive $2.5 million which is going to 415 businesses in all 15 U.P. counties.

“When we work together, we can help people,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, D-Michigan.

Despite the Upper Peninsula having about 3% of the state’s population, the U.P. received 4.8% of all funds.

“We did, relatively speaking, well once again. Really appreciate Senators (Ed) McBroom, (Wayne) Schmidt and Representatives (Beau) LaFave, (Sara) Cambensy and (Greg) Markkanen advocating for us,” said Fittante.

On average, U.P. businesses will receive $5,700. Despite the millions in funding, about half of Upper Michigan applicants were denied.

“The profound need that exists just has not been met, but this was the greatest percentage of applicant that we were able to meet,” said Fittante.

The funding coming as some industries remain under restrictions.

“These principally went to those that were hit hardest by the last mask and gathering order so restaurants, bars, entertainment facilities like theaters,” said Fittante.

You can rewatch today’s press conference on the TV6 & FOX UP Facebook page.

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