LANSING – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued an emergency order on Thursday that sets a civil fine of up to $1,000 for violating orders related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The order also outlines the process of referral to licensing agencies for violations made by entities that are regulated by a licensing agency.

Criminal penalties also remain an option that prosecutors could choose.

All people must comply with the following orders and any orders related to the virus that come after them, or they risk fines:

• Executive Order 2020-11 temporarily prohibits large assemblages and events and temporarily closes schools.
• Executive Order 2020-20 places temporary restrictions on the use of places of public accommodation.
• Executive Order 2020-21 temporarily restricts gatherings and travel and prohibits in-person work that is not necessary to sustain or protect life.

“A person can have coronavirus without knowing it,” MDHHS Director Robert Gordon said. “They can spread the disease to others who can spread it to others. The only way to stop the spread is social distancing. A civil penalty and potential licensing actions send a strong message to Michiganders that social distancing is essential to saving lives.”