The Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ statewide mask mandate Wednesday, stripping the governor of one of his last remaining tools to curb large-scale spread of COVID-19 as the state stands on the precipice of another surge in infections.
The conservative-leaning court ruled 4-3 that Evers violated state law by unilaterally issuing multiple emergency orders to extend the mandate for months. The court found Evers needed legislative approval to issue more orders after the initial 60-day mandate he issued in August expired.
The question in this case is not whether the governor acted wisely; it is whether he acted lawfully. We conclude he did not,â Justice Brian Hagedorn wrote for the majority.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down Gov. Tony Evers' statewide mask mandate, ruling that the Democrat exceeded his authority by issuing the order. The 4-3 ruling from the court is the latest legal blow to attempts by Evers to control the coronavirus. https://t.co/l8ZXnA1VCI
— The Associated Press (@AP) March 31, 2021
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin Supreme Court strikes down statewide mask mandate, siding with conservatives who said it was illegally issued.
— Zeke Miller (@ZekeJMiller) March 31, 2021