Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has given the green light for Detroit-based casino establishments to resume action once again from next week.
Signing executive orders 2020-160 and 2020-161, amending Michigan’s safe start order and issuing revised workplace safeguards, the move will enable the MGM Grand Detroit, Greektown Casino and MotorCity Casino Hotel to reopen from Wednesday 5 August.
Under the safe start order, occupancy will be limited to 15 per cent capacity, with casinos also ordered to conduct a daily entry screening protocol for customers and employees.
Casino properties must also require patrons to wear a face covering, except while eating, drinking or for identification purposes.
“As we see COVID-19 cases continue to rise, Michiganders cannot afford to drop our guard. We must take every step possible to save lives, protect the brave men and women on the front lines, and avoid overwhelming our healthcare system while we continue to combat COVID-19,” said Whitmer.
“After seeing a resurgence in cases connected to social gatherings across the state, we must further limit gatherings for the health of our community and economy. By taking these strong actions, we will be better positioned to get our children back into classrooms and avoid a potentially devastating second wave.”
Furthermore, beginning immediately statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to ten people and executive order 2020-160 also states that bars in every region must close for indoor service if they earn more than 70 per cent of their gross receipts from sales of alcoholic beverages.