Your “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order Questions Answered

O’Reilly Rancilio has proudly served Southeast Michigan for more than 30 years. In this time of crisis, we continue to assist municipalities, business owners, and residents that are affected by the pandemic. We are here for you and ready to answer your legal questions.

Our Coronavirus Legal Team has worked hard to continuously assist our clients with the complex legal issues surrounding this unprecedented event. Below are some of the popular questions and answers about Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order, signed March 23, 2020.

I own a deli/small restaurant. May I stay open for delivery and carryout? Yes, Michigan restaurants are permitted to stay operate under Governor Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order for delivery and limited carryout/drive-through services.

I am a flooring contractor. May I continue to go to the locations where I am installing flooring? In general, no, under the Executive Order, only workers that are necessary to sustain or protect life are permitted to conduct business. Your work might qualify, though, if it is essential to residential living or critical infrastructure.

I manage a nonprofit corporation. May I stay open? It depends on the type of charitable organization. Workers and volunteers for businesses or operations (including both religious and secular nonprofit organizations) that provide food, shelter, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals, individuals who need assistance as a result of this emergency, and people with disabilities may operate.

I am making homemade soup for my parents, who are elderly. Can I deliver it to them? Yes, Michigan residents are allowed to provide food and other necessities to relatives. However, for the health and safety of your elderly parents, be sure to practice social distancing, and avoid visiting.

I am a hairstylist. May I go to a client’s home to cut their hair? No, only workers who are necessary to sustain or protect life are permitted to leave home to conduct business.

Will I receive mail during this crisis? Yes, the United States Postal Service is a federal entity and will continue delivery service.

The Social Security Administration office is closed due to the Coronavirus Crisis. Will I receive my check? Yes, you will continue to receive your monthly benefit amount if you use Direct Deposit. You will also continue to receive payment via the U.S. Postal Service.

What do I do if my driver’s license or license plate expires, and I can’t renew it? What about anything else the SOS handles? The Secretary of State offices are closed until further notice due to Gov. Whitmer’s Order. Customers can complete many transactions using online services or make an appointment for a future visit. Some fees may be waived as well. The SOS has not yet announced if residents will be able to drive with an expired driver’s license or plate. Visit their website for the latest information on this topic.

May I go to the ATM for cash? Yes, banks and other financial institutions remain open, although some may have limited lobby usage. Check with your bank before visiting.

My car broke down. Are there any repair shops open? Yes, auto repair and maintenance shops remain open subject to certain limitations. New and used car sales, however, are temporarily suspended.

We are here to answer your questions

We are here to answer your questions and will post more legal Q&A articles on our blog page, so check back often as the situation is constantly evolving. If you have a question for an attorney, visit our COVID-19 Crisis Team page, leave a remark on one of our social media channels, or call our office at 586-726-1000.