Michigan lawmakers need to pass a new law that requires residents to wear masks indoors and in busy outdoor areas.
Gov. Whitmer said she sent a letter to Republican lawmakers this week asking them to pass a bill.
State health orders issued in October already required wearing masks in public. However, case rates continue to rise.
Whitmer said that putting the requirement in law would likely encourage people to take precautions more seriously.
Health officials issued a similar order in early October to be ruled by the Michigan Supreme Court. The court, in a split decision, struck down Whitmer’s executive orders.