MLA Advocacy News

Library Stabilization Fund Act Outreach Continues

August 11, 2020

MLA continued outreach to our federal legislators with a letter urging them to cosponsor the Library Stabilization Fund Act (S. 4181 / H.R. 7486).

This legislation, supported by ALA and introduced by U.S. Rep Andy Levin (D-MI-9) would provide $2 billion for libraries administered through the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The legislation would keep nearly 370,000 library workers on the job, defray costs related to safe reopening, and support a range of library services to millions of patrons, including:

Updates on Executive Orders Affecting Libraries

July 30, 2020

On Wednesday, July 29, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-160 and Executive Order 2020-161, amending Michigan’s Safe Start Order and issuing revised workplace safeguards.

The Governor stated that with rising cases throughout Michigan, these updates were necessary to protect lives and slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Under the Safe Start Order, starting July 31, 2020, statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people, outdoor gatherings are not to exceed 100 people, and bars will be closed for indoor service across the state, including in Regions 6 and 8. Regions 6 and 8 also have different limits on gatherings.

Executive Orders: What Number Are We up To?

July 23, 2020

Wondering if anyone else out there in library land is finding it hard to remember what Executive Orders we are now paying attention to? We started this conversation back on March 16th with EO 2020-09 and from then until now, there have been over 150 and we are still climbing the ladder. Since that time, MLA has continued to stay on top of the Executive Orders that affect our work, and while it is good to note that many Executive Orders have been rescinded over the past 4 months, we continue to confuse ourselves every day by what number is or isn’t still in effect. 

Gov. Whitmer Extends Orders Allowing Remote Meetings and Hearings With New Executive Order

July 17, 2020

Governor Whitmer today signed Executive Order 2020-154, which extends previous executive orders to provide temporary alternative means to conduct public meetings, conduct administrative proceedings, and provide the required notice under tax abatement statutes.

Under Executive Order 2020-154, all three previous orders are consolidated and extended to protect the public health and safety of Michiganders. The new order: