Menards is getting warned for the second time in recent weeks for its business practices during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Michigan Department of Attorney General sent a letter to the home improvement company on Wednesday, April 1, ordering it to cease all activities that go against the spirit of the governor's "stay home" order.

“The current climate should not be viewed through the lens of business opportunism where dollars drive decisions over the good of the public’s health,” Attorney Dana Nessel said in a news release.

Opportunistic practices include marketing sales to bring large numbers of people into its stores for non-emergency purposes, the release said. This is endangering the health of customers and employees, it said.

“We have been the low-price leader for years," Menards spokesman Jeff Abbott said in an email. "This is how we built our business. Everybody runs a bad play once in a while. We have reminded everyone on our team that being the low-price leader is, has been and always will be our goal.”

Menards is allowed to stay open, but only to supply goods that are “necessary to maintain and improve the safety, sanitation and essential operations of a residence,” per the order.

Menards should have as few employees as are necessary to provide such goods, the release said.

Willful violations of the governor's order can result in a $500 fine or 90 days in jail, per offense.

Menards was accused of gouging prices on face masks and bleach by the Attorney General, March 17. The company later apologized, although the news release said this issue is still a topic of ongoing discussions with the business.

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus.

Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible.

Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and when you go into places like stores.

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