May 19, 2021
In This Edition
- Mask Guideline Update
- Unemployment Update
MASK GUIDELINE UPDATE
Last week, the CDC released new recommendations for fully vaccinated individuals. These guidelines state: fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing themselves, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated:
- 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
- 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine
In response to these newly released recommendations, Governor Whitmer and MDHHS released new mask requirements. These requirements state: Michiganders who are outdoors will no longer need to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status. While indoors, fully vaccinated Michiganders will no longer need to wear a mask, but residents who are not vaccinated, or have not completed their vaccinations, must continue to wear a mask or face covering to protect themselves and others. After July 1, the broad indoor mask mandate will expire.
This is exciting news, however, we understand the anxiety of taking this next step forward in tackling this pandemic, and you’re not alone. To help you understand the risks, we’ve provided a graphic chart and a few links to articles that can help you navigate these new recommendations.
- What’s behind the CDC’s decision to lift mask recommendations for fully vaccinated people
- Here’s the science that convinced the CDC to lift mask mandates
- Where you have to wear a mask in Michigan — and where you don’t
- How to overcome COVID re-entry anxiety
This is all possible due to people playing their part to keep people safe and getting vaccinated. If you have not yet been vaccinated, here is a link to some information on the vaccines and how to find an appointment near you.
UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATE
Recently, it was announced that effective on May 30th, Michigan will be reinstating Work Search requirements for those who are actively receiving unemployment benefits. With this announcement, Governor Whitmer and her administration also reaffirmed that they have no plans to end any federal unemployment programs, which include the additional $300 provided to individuals that qualify under 1099 (gig worker/contractor).
For more information on Michigan’s unemployment system, click here. If you or someone you know is having difficulties with their unemployment account, you can find our UIA assistance form here.
Mallory McMorrow
State Senator
13th District