Speaker Welch Thanks Illinoisans for Perseverance Throughout the Pandemic

 

Springfield, IL – With Governor JB Pritzker's plan to lift the statewide mask requirement, Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch applauded the people of Illinois for doing their part to keep each other as safe as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Our hospitalization rates are declining faster than any other point in the pandemic and we have one of the highest vaccination rates in the Midwest," said Speaker Welch. "It really is a testament to the strength and perseverance of Illinoisans doing all that we can to keep each other safe."

The governor announced on Wednesday that Illinois is on track to lift the statewide mask requirement on Monday, February 28. However, mask requirements will still be in place where they are federally mandated and if local businesses or jurisdictions choose to keep them in place. Also, given that schools need more time for community infections rates to drop and for young children to become vaccine eligible, masks will still be required in P-12 school settings.

"While masks will no longer be required in most indoor locations beginning February 28, they are still recommended," said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. "Masks offer a layer of protection and for people who have an underlying health condition or who are around those who do, you may choose to continue wearing a mask. Similarly, if you find yourself in a crowded, indoor setting, a mask can still help protect you. We will continue to recommend masks."

According to Governor Pritzker's announcement, to account for community spread among more vulnerable populations, Illinois will continue to require masks in the following settings per CDC guidelines:

"This pandemic is not over, but because the people of this state continue to be guided by the advice from trusted health professionals, we are getting closer to achieving some sense of normalcy," said Speaker Welch. "I'm so proud of our communities for doing what is necessary to protect our children and most vulnerable. If you haven't yet, I would strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of the free and widely available vaccine, as it is our best tool in this ongoing fight with COVID-19."

 
Andrea Garcia