Judge Extends Order Blocking Release of Virus Positive Businesses

MADISON, WI— Gov. Tony Evers’ administration is blocked from listing names of businesses with employees who tested positive for the coronavirus at least until the end of November, according to a ruling in Waukesha County Circuit Court.

According to online court documents, a judge ruled on Thursday, a temporary restraining order issued by the court on October 1, is extended to November 30.

"Defendants Tony Evers, Andrea Palm and Joel Brennan, and their officers, agents, and employees (collectively referred to as "Defendants"), are temporarily restrained from releasing any information relating to businesses whose employees have tested positive for COVID-19 or who contact tracing has shown close connections."

According to an Associated Press report several groups filed a lawsuit on Oct. 1 to prevent the administration from approving an open records request from media outlets requesting the names. The groups argued the release would blacklist the businesses as coronavirus cases increased.

Judge Lloyd Carter issued a five-day stay on the release the same day the lawsuit was filed. On Thursday he extended the stay until the next hearing in the case on Nov. 30, according to online court records.

Court records list the following as Plaintiffs: Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce and New Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau.

The next court hearing is Nov. 30.