On March 16, 2020, President Trump advised that gathering in groups of 10 or more people should be avoided.
On March 16, 2020, Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-11 (the “EO”). Subject to some exceptions, the EO prohibits “all assemblages of more than 50 people in a single indoor shared space and all events of more than 50 people […].” Violation of the EO is misdemeanor.
Given the EO and the increased need to ensure the safety of public servants and the general public, many municipalities are contemplating whether to temporarily close their municipal offices. Many municipal offices are already closed to the public with staff still working on-site or remotely. As the proper method and potential impact of closing government offices varies, each municipality should discuss any particular situation involving an emergency closing with its attorney.