May 20th, 2020- House Speaker Michael Madigan says lawmakers that do not follow safety precautions when lawmakers meet today will be asked to leave immediately.
The IL House plans to meet today, tomorrow, and Friday to discuss the state’s response to the pandemic and budget. The House will be meeting at the Bank of Springfield Center to allow for social distancing and the Senate will be meeting in Senates chambers.
Some members of the GOP Caucus have stated that they will refuse to wear masks, a precaution that will be required for all returning lawmakers. Additional precautions will include temperature checks and required social distancing.
Madigan says the matter of requiring masks will immediately be called for a vote. Madigan stated “after the motion passes, any member in violation of the rule change will face discipline, including potentially being removed from the chamber by a vote of the House. This is not an action I take lightly, but when it comes to the health and safety of members, their families, staff and the communities they represent, it is the right and prudent thing to do.”
