Gov. Tony Evers said he’s “considering” a statewide mandate to wear masks in response to record numbers of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin.
At least 30 states have such orders.
On Thursday, Evers told reporters his administration is looking at a statewide order, citing evidence mask-wearing helps slow the spread of COVID-19.
“There’s no conspiracy, folks. Wearing a facemask will help protect the people around you, including those at higher risk for severe illness and workers who frequently come into contact with others, like nurses, grocers, and first responders,” he said.
But Evers has said he’s worried a statewide order might not hold up in court. In May, the conservative state Supreme Court struck down his Safer At Home order.
Legal concerns are the only thing standing in Evers’ way.
“If you could be confident a mask order wouldn’t face legal obstacles, would you have any hesitation about enacting one for the state?” WXPR asked him on a call with reporters.
“No,” Evers responded, simply.
On Thursday, the state reported more than 1,000 new COVID-19 cases for the second time since the start of the pandemic.
“These numbers are, at least in part, a reflection of two patterns. A significant number of cases that reported attending gatherings like parties and bars and barbecues and an increase in cases among young people,” said Department of Health Services Sec.-designee Andrea Palm.
Eight hundred seventy-eight people have died in Wisconsin since the pandemic began.
