Even though Wisconsin's statewide mask mandate is no longer in effect after the state Supreme Court knocked it down last week, local mask orders remain in effect for some cities in southeastern Wisconsin.
And some of those orders will soon expire, if they are not renewed.
Research has found that mask mandates and limits on group activities such as indoor dining can help slow the spread of the coronavirus. Nearly 60 organizations opposed the repeal of Wisconsin’s mask mandate.
State health officials have also expressed concern over a recent spike in coronavirus cases that emerged at the end of March. Cases of COVID-19 variants, which are believed to spread more quickly and lead to more severe symptoms, have officials concerned as well.
Others have argued that people and businesses should be free to make their own decisions about what’s best for them. Speaker Robin Vos said last week that people “don’t need state government telling them how to live their lives.”
TMJ4 News has compiled a list of the cities with local mask orders, and when those orders are scheduled to expire:
Whitefish Bay
Expires June 30
More information here.
Wauwatosa
Expires June 16
More information here.
Shorewood
Expires May 17
More information here.
Racine
Expires June 30
More information here.
Milwaukee
In effect indefinitely
More information here.
Kenosha
Expires May 27
More information here.
Glendale
In effect indefinitely
More information here.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.