WI Gov. Evers Signs Emergency Mask Order

MADISON, WI—Gov. Tony Evers signed orders Tuesday establishing a statewide public health emergency and requiring face masks in public places to protect the health and safety of Wisconsinites.

Evers, a Democrat, signed Executive Order No. 105 and Emergency Order No. 1 an hour after the Republican-led state Legislature voted to repeal his previous mandate, the governor's office said in a news release.

The orders go into effect immediately and will remain in place for 60 days or until the governor or a joint resolution of the Legislature revoke them.

Evers explained the action in a video message.

"Here’s the truth: we know that wearing face coverings can save lives and prevent death; we know it’s supported by science and the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]; and we know it’s supported by more than 40 statewide organizations and the 72% of Wisconsinites who agree face coverings should be worn in public places.

"And most importantly, we know that as we work to get shots in arms as quickly as we have vaccines available, no amount of vaccine in the world could bring back the lives we stand to lose if we have no statewide mitigation strategy in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Wisconsin."

The Legislature on Thursday repealed Evers’ mask mandate, brushing aside warnings from health experts against making Wisconsin one of only 10 states without a statewide order.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.