(LANSING) – Starting today, individuals are required to wear masks whenever they are in an indoor public space in Michigan, or face a fine.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-147 last week, which also requires the use of face coverings in crowded outdoor spaces. Most significantly, the Executive Order requires any business that is open to the public to refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering, with limited exceptions.

Under this order, businesses must post signs at all entrances instructing customers of their legal obligation to wear a face covering while inside. There are some exemptions, which include people younger than five years old; those who cannot medically tolerate a face covering and those who are eating or drinking while seated at a food service establishment.

The Executive Order went into effect at 12:01 AM Monday. A willful violation of the order is a misdemeanor, subject to a $500 criminal penalty, but no term of confinement may be imposed on individuals who violate the mask requirement. No individual is subject to penalty under the order for removing a mask while engaging in religious worship at a house of religious worship. However, consistent with guidance from the Center for Disease Control, congregants are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings during religious services.

Governor Whitmer signed this Executive Order in response to rising COVID-19 cases in Michigan. It expands upon her previous Executive Orders on safely restarting Michigan's economy and ensuring workplace safety.