Clarification on how Michigan Supreme Court’s Recent Decision Impacts our Services and Precautions through COVID-19

Greetings LifeCircles participants, care partners & families:

The Michigan Supreme Court recently issued a ruling that may be causing some confusion about the Governor’s orders that were put in place to keep Michigan citizens safe and prevent the spread of the coronavirus. I would like to clarify how this announcement impacts our community and your care with LifeCircles. Although the Governor’s executive order was indeed rescinded, many of the requirements remain in effect through a new order from Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

1. Effective immediately, Robert Gordon, Director of MDHHS, has issued an emergency order. To summarize, the order:
   • Prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people (from different households) in residential and non-residential settings.
   • Requires venues with fixed seating (such as our day centers) to comply with specific space and seating requirements. For example, seats must be at least 6 feet apart, face coverings are required, and there are limits to how many people can be accommodated per square footage.
   • Sets very specific rules for restaurants and bars, including limits on the number of customers, restrictions on where customers are seated, and closing common areas where people can dance or mingle.
   • Requires sporting events to have safety plans and sets restrictions for fans and players.
   • Requires face coverings for all indoor and outdoor gatherings. Consistent and proper use of masks is the most important way to prevent spreading or catching the coronavirus!
   • Authorizes local health departments to enforce the order.
   • If you would like to read the MDHHS order in it’s entirety, please go to: www.Michigan.gov/coronavirus
     
2. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary, Alex Azar, extended the Public Health Emergency (PHE) for another 90 days effective October 23. This means that LifeCircles and all PACE organizations across the nation, need to continue to comply with all Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance and recommendations through at least January 23, 2021.
   
   If you would like information about CDC recommendations and guidelines, please visit: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
   
3. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions are at the greatest risk of severe complications from COVID-19, therefore, LifeCircles will continue to practice rigorous infection control measures, including social distancing, frequent hand washing, and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment when interacting with others.

Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions or concerns about what you are reading or hearing regarding the pandemic. The health and safety of you, your family and our LifeCircles team members remains our top priority. Thank you for your patience and support.

Sincerely,

Luke Reynolds, Executive Director