It took only a few days for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to issue an Epidemic Public Health Order in the wake of the Michigan Supreme Court overturning Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders on the Covid pandemic.

MDHHS Director Robert Gordon Monday issued an emergency order restricting gathering sizes, requiring face coverings in public spaces, and places limitations on bars and other venues. Under MCL 333.2253, if the MDHHS director determines control of an epidemic is necessary to protect the public health, the director by emergency order may prohibit the gathering of people for any purpose and may establish procedures to be followed during the epidemic to insure continuation of essential public health services and enforcement of health laws.

Violations of this order are punishable by a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six months or a fine of not more than $200, or both or by a civil fine of up to $1,000.

The health department largely reinstated three major aspects of Whitmer’s emergency orders — It requires individuals to wear masks when at gatherings or schools for all grades, limits the size of gatherings indoors and though the order does not close bars, it requires them to close indoor common areas where people can congregate, dance, or otherwise mingle.

The Michigan Supreme Court Friday ruled that “The executive orders issued by the Governor in response to the COVID-19 pandemic lack any basis under Michigan law.” The Court indicated that its decision “leaves open many avenues for the Governor and Legislature to work together” to address the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The court’s order does not affect the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services which require organizations to have many of the same health and safety protocols in place as required by the governor’s executive orders.

In light of the recent court ruling, the Allegan County Health Department and the Wayland, Hopkins and Martin schools have decided to continue to follow the guidelines of the executive order.

Allegan County as of today has reported only seven deaths from the Coronavirus, with 851 cases, 667 recoveries and 49 hospitalizations.

“Allegan County has done a great job in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 through the strategies that have been in place throughout the community. We remain confident our community will continue those efforts and help keep each other safe,” Allegan County Health Officer Angelique Joynes said. “At this time, the Allegan County Health Department stresses the importance of consistency and keeping core COVID-19 mitigation strategies in place while more specific guidance is developed. At a minimum, these strategies include proper mask use, social distancing, frequent handwashing, and staying home if you are sick.”