Tensions rise over governor’s mask order

Many aren’t happy. But a few people are outraged since Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order last week requiring people to wear face masks when in a public space.

That outrage has erupted into violence in a few isolated incidents, according to Bridge Magazine.

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Most notably, a Grand Ledge man was shot to death by police Tuesday after stabbing another man during a dispute over masks.

Law enforcement officials are also on egde. Some are refusing to enforce the governor’s order, which is meant to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The sheriff of Van Buren County, west of Kalamazoo, said he won’t direct resources to enforcing the mask order.

“We will dedicate our services to investigating crimes against persons and property and we will not pull valuable resources away from that to investigate complaints against the Governor’s Executive Orders,” said Sheriff Daniel Abbott in a statement.

Not every law enforcement official feels the same way.

Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller issued a statement on Facebook Tuesday reinforcing the governor’s order.

“I urge everyone to follow the Executive Orders put in place by Governor Whitmer. They carry the weight of law,” reads the statement.

Violations of the governor’s order are classified as a misdemeanor and are punishable by a fine of up to $500. Businesses that refuse to enforce mask wearing face having their licenses revoked.

You can read more here.