Group of state bowling alleys sue Whitmer for damages

LANSING, Mich. –  A group of Michigan bowling alleys and roller rinks are suing the state —over lost revenue during the pandemic.

The five businesses suing the state are demanding compensation for lost revenue related to multiple state–ordered closures and restrictions.

The lawsuit names Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the department’s director, Robert Gordon, as defendants.

It’s the latest legal challenge against business restrictions imposed by state officials during the ongoing pandemic.

The attorney who filed the lawsuit Wednesday said it could deter the state from issuing COVID–19 restrictions in the future.

“To put businesses in the position where they can’t meet their obligations, they can’t pay employees; they can’t pay their taxes and then say ‘well I guess we own your property because you didn’t pay your property taxes.’ that is just so unjust,” said attorney David Kallman.

Michigan bowling alleys were able to reopen December 21st after the Michigan Department of Health ordered them closed in mid–November.

John Snyder of Alpena’s Thunder Bay Lanes said although he’s open, he has very high hopes that his concessions will also open on February first.

“It’s kind of hard,” said Snyder. “This is strictly a voluntary thing to do, to go bowling and have some fun and be social. My main business income is not allowed to occur.”

State health officials say Michigan could lift its ban on indoor dining February 1st, depending on COVID–19 numbers.

WBKB reached out for comment to several of the bowling alleys listed in the lawsuit, but was unsuccessful.