LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Wednesday, March 25 that extends the canvassing deadline of the state's primary election to April 24.
She did this so county canvassers can have extra time to complete their work regarding the March 10 election while their focus is shifted to dealing with the coronavirus.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said she is grateful to the governor for ensuring Michigan's democracy will remain "robust" during this pandemic.
“Providing more time to canvass the recent election will provide certainty for Michiganders that our elections are accurate and worth everyone participating in," Benson said.
The state said without this order, state employees would have to restart the count, wasting time and resources during the COVID-19 crisis, as the employees are following social distancing guidelines.
Whitmer said the state's top priority during the coronavirus pandemic is the health and safety of its residents.
STATE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COVID-19
Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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