Gov. J.B. Pritzker had earlier stated that he would lift this mandate for masks in order to slow down the spread of the deadly disease as new cases and hospitalizations drop. Although the Democratic governor wanted to keep the requirement in place for schools where staff and students are closer together, other government actions have invalidated it.
Pritzker on Monday added child-care centers the list of places where the mask requirement was lifted. On Monday, the United Center announced that all Blackhawks and Bulls fans will no longer need to wear masks starting March. However, the Chicago Tribune stated that all fans must still submit a negative COVID-19 or proof of vaccination in order to be allowed into the building.
Some schools, such as Chicago’s third-largest, will still require face covers.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot of Chicago stated last week that the city would lift its Monday mask mandate, which also requires proof of vaccination for people who visit restaurants and other places.
Pritzker’s appeal against lower court rulings that had reversed the governor’s requirement for schools to wear masks was denied by the Illinois Supreme Court last Wednesday.
The rule of the state House floor will be that masks are the same, despite being challenged by Republicans. The Legislature has scheduled a short spring session, which is expected to conclude in April. Emanuel “Chris”, the Democratic House Speaker, told members that he does not want to risk an epidemic which could derail work or worsened family members of legislators who are immunocompromised.
This requirement has resulted in the removal of eight Republicans from the floor for refusing compliance, including Rep. Blaine Wilhour of Beecher City , who filed a lawsuit against Welch.
State Senate officials are currently evaluating the options.
