Madison- State Representative Tyler Vorpagel (R-Plymouth) issued the following regarding the Passage of Senate Joint Resolution 3.

“Today I voted to support Senate Joint Resolution 3 that repeals the governor’s unlawful executive order declaring a state of emergency again without approval of the legislature.  Under the law, the Governor’s authority to declare an emergency states: a state of emergency shall not exceed 60 days, unless the state of emergency is extended by joint resolution of the legislature.

“Passage of this resolution was about one thing, ensuring that Governor Evers follows the law. Allowing one person to write and execute new laws without the legally required oversight or input from the Legislative branch sets a very dangerous precedent.

“While many want to make today simply about masks, that is not the case. In a letter sent to Governor Evers this morning, I joined my Republican colleagues in the Assembly and requested the governor submit an administrative rule to the Legislature regarding masks.  This is the lawful process we have been asking him to use, now 3 times since last May. This would allow for a discussion on reasonable masking requirements in places that are susceptible to transmission and avoid the unilateral and unlawful actions by the Governor.

“I have heard from hundreds of constituents on all sides of this issue.  I believe that wearing a mask is an important tool in combatting the virus.  I believe strongly that everyone should continue wearing one when appropriate, while continuing to wash their hands regularly, and social distancing when able.  I will continue to do so even without a government mandate, and I believe that the overwhelming majority of Wisconsinites will do so as well.”

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