(LANSING) – The State of Michigan will be opening to full capacity on June 22.

On Thursday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced she has accelerated the end of the COVID-19 epidemic orders on gatherings and masking. This is because COVID-19 cases continue to plummet due to increased vaccinations.

Beginning June 22, capacity in both indoor and outdoor settings will increase to 100% and the State will no longer require residents to wear a face mask.

Whitmer says this is the day we have all be looking forward to, as we can safely get back to normal, day-to-day activities and put this pandemic behind us. She says we owe a debt of gratitude to the medical experts and health professionals who stood on the front lines to keep us all safe. Whitmer says we are incredibly thankful to all of the essential workers who keep Michigan moving.

Whitmer says our top priority moving forward is utilizing the federal relief funding in a smart, sustainable way as we put Michigan back to work and jumpstart our economy. She says we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to ensure that Michigan's families, small businesses and communities emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever before.

In addition to the Gatherings and Mask Order, additional orders are being rescinded as of June 22. Some orders will remain in effect to protect vulnerable populations in corrections, long term care and agriculture. Public health measures will continue for reporting requirements and COVID testing to make sure areas where community spread is high are identified.