Shiawassee Times

A recent study has found that indoor dining bans in Michigan, which have been criticized by some constituents, may not as effective in slowing the spread of the coronavirus as previously thought, according to reporting from Bridge Michigan.

Though Michigan is pacing behind many other states when it comes to the number of cases on a daily basis, and its efforts have been somewhat successful when it comes to slowing the spread of the virus, the impact of its ban on indoor dining has been questionable and potentially ineffective, Bridge Michigan claims.

Michigan is performing better in terms of daily cases than many other states that are not implementing heavy restrictions. However, some feel it is ravaging its economy by shutting down small businesses, such as restaurants and bars, with a ban on indoor dining.

When compared with other states, such as Ohio, which has not banned indoor dining, the Michigan economy is losing jobs at a much higher rate with no discernible impact on the number of daily coronavirus cases.

Meanwhile, Robert Gordon, director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, touted the state's success in slowing the spread of the coronavirus. "The pause is working," he said, according to Bridge Michigan.

The cost that this has taken on the economy is significant, and many economists argue that the restrictions and lockdowns are simply not worth it, in terms of lost jobs and lack of economic stimulus. 

The data is leading some residents and politicians to urge Michigan to retract the ban on indoor dining, but it doesn't appear that Michigan's governor or health director are planning to heed that advice anytime soon.

Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake) is one of those who opposes lockdowns. “Use  targeted actions. Fine-tuned messaging. Loud. Consistent. Informing, inspiring and encouraging,” he told Bridge Michigan recently. “No more blunt force instruments.”