Whitmer Seeks Executive Power Clarification From MI Supreme Court

MICHIGAN — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is seeking the Michigan Supreme Court to clarify when their ruling on her emergency powers takes effect.

Whitmer was joined by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon in filing a motion with the high court, requesting that they clarify that their Friday ruling does not take effect until Oct. 30.

“We need this transition period to protect the 830,000 Michigan workers and families who are depending on unemployment benefits to pay their bills and put food on the table, and to protect Michiganders everywhere who are counting on their leaders to protect them,” Whitmer said. “The Supreme Court has spoken, and while I vehemently disagree with their ruling, I’m ready to work across the aisle with Republicans in the legislature where we can find common ground to slow the spread of the virus and rebuild our economy.

Don't miss important updates from health and government officials on the impact of the coronavirus in Michigan. Sign up for Patch's daily newsletters and email alerts.

"It’s time for Republicans in the Legislature to get to work and start showing that they are taking this crisis seriously. They can start by canceling their October recess and getting back to work. Let’s work together and get this done.”

On Friday, a narrow majority of the Supreme Court struck down the statute under which the governor has issued executive orders during the coronavirus pandemic.

Whitmer said on Monday that if the ruling went into effect immediately, up to 830,000 Michigan workers and their families could lose unemployment benefits.

“The Supreme Court’s ruling raises several legal questions that we are still reviewing. While we are moving swiftly, this transition will take time,” Gordon said. “Make no mistake, Governor Whitmer will continue using every tool at her disposal to keep Michigan families, frontline workers, and small businesses safe from this deadly virus. The same is true for our department. We will use every statutory tool available to protect our state employees and the residents we serve.

"We also need Michiganders to do their part by wearing a mask, maintaining six feet of physical distancing, washing hands frequently, and getting their flu vaccine. We will get through this together.”

Related: Whitmer's Emergency Powers Have Been Struck Down. Now What?

Whitmer's office has said the ruling takes effect 21 days from when it was made, citing Michigan Supreme Court law.