(WXYZ) — A federal judge has denied the request for a stay of the latest state epidemic order that bans in-person dining in Michigan.
Related: Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association suing MDHHS for restrictions prohibiting indoor dining
Judge Paul L. Maloney issued a ruling on Friday in the lawsuit by the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association against the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
The lawsuit was filed Tuesday aiming to stop the enforcement of the new pandemic order that stopped in-person dining service at restaurants and bars in Michigan.
According to the judge, the MRLA didn't give enough evidence that would allow for a temporary restraining order.
"We have taken this action only after careful deliberation and as the last available option to prevent the outright devastation of restaurant operators and their hundreds of thousands of employees across the state," MRLA President & CEO Justin Winslow said.
"We want to be clear that we made several good faith efforts in advance of the public release of the Order issued November 15 to reach a compromise with the MDHHS that would have supported the goal of minimizing risk while still allowing for the continued operation of dining rooms," Winslow said. "We are hopeful for a swift and decisive victory in court so restaurant operators may return to what we know they do best – adding value to our lives and our economy by providing a great meal and exceptional hospitality in a safe, socially distanced, sanitized and regulated environment."
In a press conference held Sunday evening, Whitmer and state health officials announced a "Three-Week Pause" aimed at mitigating the spread of the virus.
A court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 30 in West Michigan on the lawsuit.
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