MADISON, WI (Wisconsin Radio Network) – Republican legislative leaders say they’ll bring in the Department of Health Services to a rulemaking hearing over the the agency’s latest public health order.
On Wednesday, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and State Senator Steve Nass said that the new order restricting how many people can be inside of businesses was unenforceable without legislative approval. Emergency order #3 limits indoor gatherings to just 25% of a bulding’s capacity. It impacts restaurants, bars, retailers and indoor events that require tickets. Schools, religious services, weddings, funerals, and outdoor events are exempt.
Governor Evers’ spokeswoman says that rather than breaking 175 days of inaction in the legislature, Republicans are sending a letter instead. Evers’ office says that the new health order is consistent with guidelines laid out in the State Supreme Court decision that struck down the Safer At Home order earlier this year.
An earlier emergency order from the governor, extending mask requirements until November, is being challenged in court. So far the GOP-controlled legislature has not called a special session to rescind that order. Under state law, emergency orders expire in 60 days without the consent of the legislature.
