Michigan increases outdoor stadium capacity, requires COVID testing for youth sports

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced on Friday that the state will allow more capacity in open-air stadiums and require COVID-19 testing for young athletes participating in sports.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has updated its COVID-19 order to enable up to 20% capacity in stadiums and arenas with infection control plans. They must also have fixed seats.

The new rules come into effect on Monday and last until April 19.

“The pandemic is tough for all of us, but by staying focused on acting quickly, following science and listening to experts, we can save lives and help our economy recover faster,” said Whitmer. “Today’s action is an important step towards normalcy, but there is still more work to be done.”

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Outdoor stadiums can be filled up to 20% as long as they follow these protocols:

• Publishes the mitigation plan publicly.

• Sends infection control plans to the local health department and MDHHS at least seven days before scheduled events.

“We appreciate the continued partnership with the Governor’s office and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services,” said Chris Granger, sports and entertainment group chairman at Ilitch Holdings. “We are delighted to safely welcome the best baseball fans back to Comerica Park for opening day and beyond. As the season progresses, we look forward to continuing coordination with public health and medical experts, government officials and Major League Baseball to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all Detroit Tigers fans. “

The state announced more tests for young people aged 13-19 to ensure they can exercise safely. More information about the program is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus website

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This is in response to an increased number of COVID-19 outbreaks related to youth sports, Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, from MDHHS, said.

“Michigan students deserve to safely enjoy the most complete high school experience we can provide,” said JoLynn Clark, principal of Frankenmuth High School. “That means finding ways to provide personalized instruction in addition to extracurricular activities, a fundamental part of a student’s life. Last fall, teachers witnessed firsthand the adverse effects on both education and student wellbeing when we can’t find ways to do both safely. “

The new test rules also start on Monday and last until April 19.