Wisconsin Senate Votes To End Evers' Statewide Mask Mandate

MADISON, WI— The Wisconsin Senate voted Tuesday to overturn Gov. Tony Evers’ statewide mask mandate. Evers issued a new statewide public health emergency and face coverings requirement on Jan. 20 valid through March 20, as the state continues to expand vaccination distribution across the state.

The Senate passed the resolution to repeal the mask mandate on an 18-13 vote, with all Democrats against it and also Republican Sens. Dale Kooyenga, of Brookfield, and Robert Cowles, of Allouez.

The argument against striking it down is that without the mandate it would put lives in jeopardy. Republicans argued Evers overstepped his authority by issuing repeat emergency health orders.

Chairman Matt Mareno of the Waukesha County Democratic Party issued the following statement after the Senate Republicans reckless decision to overturn Governor Evers’mask mandate:

“Today we witnessed the continued politization and political games that have become all too
familiar among Republicans in Madison. But this time they are playing these games with the
lives of Wisconsinites. 23 groups have registered their opposition to this action including - the
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin,
Wisconsin Hospital Association, and numerous others. If you are voting against the Children’s
Hospital of Wisconsin, you are not likely on the right side of history.

“Masks are the most common sense and practical way to save lives and continue to support our
small businesses. Waukesha County wants and deserves leaders that work together and find
practical solutions to the problems of average Wisconsinites. We are disappointed in
Republican elected officials and urge Assembly Republicans to join Democrats and reject this
radical proposal from the State Senate.”

"Action Alert The GOP Senate is taking the fight to the Governor by taking up TODAY Senate Joint Resolution 3 to overturn Evers' illegal Emergency Order. The Assembly says that they will follow suit if its passed, so contact your Senator and especially your Assembly Rep to tell them to support this action! Thank you to Senator Nass, Senator Julian Bradley, Senator Chris Kapenga and Representative Cody Horlacher, Rep. Chuck Wichgers, Representative Janel Brandtjen, Rep Scott Allen, Wisconsin State Representative Dan Knodl, and Representative Barbara Dittrich from Waukesha County for standing up for our rights and restoring the Rule of Law! We must end the violation of the Constitution!!"

The state Assembly plans to discuss the topic on Thursday.