LANSING, Mich. (Great Lakes News) – Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer loosened restaurants restrictions today. Her move comes after reports surfaced of payouts which silenced two high-ranking state health department officials upon their resignations.

Starting Friday, restaurants and bars in Michigan can open indoor dining to 50% capacity. Tables are still socially distanced with a maximum of six people at each table.

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The curfew has been bumped from 10 p.m. until 11 p.m.

In addition, retail shops are allowed to operate at 50% indoor capacity, which is up from 30%.

The entire order can be read here.

Earlier today, another high-ranking state health department administrator received a separation agreement for her silence.

Sarah Esty, who served as a deputy director while Robert Gordon led Michigan’s health department, reached a separation agreement with the state in addition to Gordon.

As Great Lakes News previously reported, Gordon received $155,506 for his silence. The taxpayer funded payoff is equal to nine months of pay and benefits.

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Whitmer has remained quiet about Gordon’s departure in January, and awkwardly sidestepped media questions about Gordon’s resignation since January.