MADISON, WI (WSAU) — In a last-second change of heart, the Wisconsin Assembly held off on passing a resolution to overturn Governor Ever’s mask mandate citing concerns over its financial impact for some residents.
Assembly Speaker Robin Vos canceled Thursday’s scheduled vote after it was revealed that the measure would mean over a quarter million residents would lose out on $49 million in federal food assistance that would be tied to an emergency order.
Dozens of healthcare agencies across the state expressed displeasure with the resolution, citing the continued spread of the virus and more contagious strains that have recently made their way to the region. Republicans said businesses are still free to require masks and residents can still choose to wear one.
Vos left open the possibility that his chamber could take a vote on the resolution at a later time when the actions would not have a negative financial impact on residents.
Tuesday’s Senate vote on the resolution was 18-13 with all Democrats voting against the document along with two Republicans- Dale Kooyenga of Brookfield and Robert Cowles of Allouez.
The resolution would only overturn the state masking order. Local masking orders in Milwaukee and Dane Counties along with municipal orders in places like Racine, Green Bay, Beloit, and Superior remain in place. Wausau’s masking resolution, which encourages residents to wear face coverings but comes with no enforceable action or penalties, is also unaffected.
Conservatives in the state have long been at odds with the Democratic Governor over how to handle the pandemic. Last Spring Evers’ Safer at Home order, which closed some businesses deemed non-essential and encouraged residents to stay home whenever possible, was thrown out by the state Supreme Court. This summer conservatives also overturned orders to limit capacities for indoor venues such as bars and restaurants.
The resolution, which is now shelved, was the first measure relating to the outbreak passed by either chamber in nearly a year.
Evers has relied on 60-day emergency orders for mask requirements, but Republicans argue that multiple emergency orders can’t be issued for the same situation. Democrats have argued that the changing nature of the pandemic makes multiple orders appropriate. Legal action on that is currently pending before the state Supreme Court.
The resolution, if passed at a later date, would take effect immediately and does not require any acknowledgment from the Governor. Wisconsin law allows the Senate and Assembly to throw out emergency orders issued by the Governor by passing a resolution through both chambers.
