MADISON, WI (Wisconsin Radio Network-WSAU) – Republican legislative leaders are critical of Governor Tony Evers extension of a statewide mask mandate, but have not indicated that they’ll call a special session to challenge it.
In statements released Tuesday, neither Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald or Assembly Speaker Robin Vos signaled any intention of calling legislators back to Madison to rescind Evers’ order. Both men referred to Evers’ action as illegal, but said court challenges, rather than legislative remedies should be pursued.
Fitzgerald said it’s “almost assuredly headed for litigation.” Fitzgerald has indicated he’d call the state senate back for a special session during the earlier mask mandate. Vos said “there is already a court challenge and undoubtedly, there will be more.”
Some Republicans are calling for the leaders to call them back, to vote on overturning the new mask order.
The Governor can declare a health emergency for 60 days. After that, legislative approval is required for the order to be extended.