LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan House has decided to not extended Governor Gretchen Whitmer's request to extend the state of emergency for 28 more days Thursday.
The House of Representatives also passed a resolution authorizing the Speaker of the House to commence legal action on behalf of the House, challenging the governor's authority and actions during the coronavirus pandemic. Governor Whitmer cannot veto the resolution.
Hundreds of people showed up outside of the State Capitol to protest Gov. Whitmer's efforts to extend the state of emergency. They stood outside for a couple of hours before moving inside of the Capitol building chanting "let us in."
Protesters say they want to get back to work and feel their constitutional rights are being taken away.
Protesters told FOX 47 they feel they should be able to see their families and have the option to choose whether or not they want to wear personal protective equipment.
Two protesters said they feel the virus "isn't real" and think it's just like the flu.
However in a statement Wednesday, Lansing Mayor Andy Schor said he was "disappointed" that people continued to protest during this uncertain time.
"I am disappointed that people continue to come to Lansing and gather at the Capitol and put themselves, as well as Lansing residents, at risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. We all need to be practicing social distancing by staying home or only working essential jobs in our own communities to ensure that we beat this virus,” said Mayor Schor. “The Governor’s Executive Order recognizes that people are still allowed to exercise their First Amendment right to freedom of speech, and the City of Lansing understands the resources that are necessary to ensure a safe environment throughout the City during these protests. LPD, LFD and our Public Service Department have plans for large group protests, should they be needed.”
As of Thursday, the state of Michigan had 41,379 cases of the coronavirus with 3,789 deaths.
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