“This is about doing what’s right for our kids. I have serious concerns about the consequences of this impractical, ineffective order,” Albert said. “Michigan isn’t solving any problems with this particular mask order – it’s actually creating problems for young kids and their families.”
The order requires child care providers to “make a good faith effort .. to ensure that children aged 2 to 4 years wear a mask when participating in gatherings.” The order mandates all children 5 years and older wear a mask when participating in gatherings.
The provision is the latest in a months-long standoff between Republicans and Whitmer over her COVID orders. Republicans have withheld some of the $5 billion in pandemic bailout funds the state has received from Washington D.C. in hopes of changing her policies.