The state Senate could vote as soon as this week to reduce the penalties faced by people who violate Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s emergency orders meant to tame the spread of COVID-19.
A bill adopted by the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee would drop intentionally violating a governor’s order or directive from a misdemeanor to a civil infraction. That could mean a fine but no criminal record for violators.
Democratic state Senator Stephanie Chang was the only “no” vote on sending the bill to the Senate floor.
“This bill, although I understand the intent, seems to be very directed at our, at undermining our current governor.”
Governor Whitmer could veto this bill if it’s sent to her desk. She’s issued dozens of COVID-19-related executive orders.