The Wisconsin Senate, which is Republican controlled voted on Tuesday to repeal Gov. Tony Evers’ statewide mask mandate, despite warnings from the health care community, such as the CDC that by doing so would impair efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic.
The Assembly’s bill passed 58-34, with all Republicans in support and Democrats against it. The bill now returns back to the Senate, which could vote on it later Tuesday.
The Senate ended up passing the resolution to repeal the mask mandate on an 18-13 vote, with all Democrats and Republican Sens. Dale Kooyenga, of Brookfield, and Robert Cowles, of Allouez, against.
Senate Democrats said doing away with the mandate would put lives at risk. “Frankly, I’m pissed. I’m pissed my neighbors are dying. I’m pissed I haven’t been able to hug my family in nine months now, and the people suffering the most are not able to be here and speak and see what’s going on.”, stated State Senator Chris Larson.
Republicans have argued that the governor exceeded his authority by issuing multiple emergency declarations, which allowed him to extend the mask mandate beyond the 60 days allowed under the law, without getting the Legislature’s approval. “This is not about whether facemasks are good or bad. This is about repeatedly issuing emergency orders contrary to what the law allows.” stated Senator Steve Nass.
The COVID-19 response bill passed which was by the Assembly includes everything that the Senate previously approved and that Evers said he would sign. This included some liability for COVID-19 claims against businesses, schools, governments and health care providers. It also would extend the waiver of a one-week waiting period to receive unemployment benefits only until March 14.
The Assembly has also added several provisions that Democrats opposed and that may set the bill up for an Evers veto. Those included a ban on employers requiring vaccinations and prohibiting the closure of churches during a health emergency. The Assembly also added a provision giving the Legislature control of how federal money for fighting the virus is spent.
Sources: The Baltimore Sun, Newsmax, and ABC; Photo: bizjournals.com
