The coronavirus pandemic has naturally resulted in restrictions on our daily routines. COVID-19 is highly contagious, so it makes sense that the federal and state governments are urging citizens to stay home as much as possible. But some governors may be taking things a measure too far.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear raised eyebrows last week when he announced that officials would be recording the license plate numbers of people who decided to participate in drive-through communion on Easter Sunday. Sens. Ted Cruz and Rand Paul excoriated the governor for clearly abusing his authority.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order this weekend to extend the state's shelter-in-place order until May 1 and banned certain gardening activities and everyday purchases. Lawmakers like Speaker of the Michigan House Lee Chatfield was one of many people confused by Whitmer's definition of "essential." Lawn care is banned, as well as the purchasing of gardening tools and baby car seats. But buying marijuana is allowed.
Non-essential in Michigan:
— Lee Chatfield (@LeeChatfield) April 11, 2020
-Lawn care, construction, fishing if boating with a motor, realtors, buying seeds, home improvement equipment & gardening supplies.
Essential in Michigan:
-Marijuana, lottery & alcohol.
Let’s be safe & reasonable. Right now, we’re not! #AdoptNewCISA
In Michigan today you can buy weed but not seeds. https://t.co/XXfPiYvLfl
— Sen. Mike Shirkey (@SenMikeShirkey) April 10, 2020
By the way, some Twitter users couldn't help but noticing that Gov. Whitmer was disobeying her own order.
Social distancing for thee, not me. Is this WXYZ Detroit broadcasting Michigan Governor Whitmer signing the order?#SocialDistanacing #coronavirus #COVID?19 #Michigan pic.twitter.com/DUy5dHVhoq
— Casey Hartman (@Ghentite) April 8, 2020