SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – The Illinois General Assembly has convened in Springfield for the first time in 10 weeks, desks spaced apart and most members wearing masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Lawmakers are hoping to complete a spring-session’s worth of work in three days after canceling all meeting days since early March because of the coronavirus pandemic.
GOP Rep. Darren Bailey was removed from the House when he refused to wear a face covering.
State Rep. Ryan Spain, of Peoria, said the General Assembly should have been back to work weeks ago.
He told WMBD’s Greg and Dan, right now, it’s very important for citizens to voice concerns to their representatives, who can get the information to Gov. J-B Pritzker.
“Think of the specific example for your business, or your family, that we need to be made aware of, and continue to push for a common-sense solution.”
Despite 147 more COVID-19-related deaths, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state is recovering enough to allow outdoor dining at restaurants with appropriately placed tables starting May 29.
Spain said revisions to phase three of “Restore Illinois” will provide relief to local restaurants, bars and salons. But, there’s more to be done.
“I’m hoping that we’ll see some news later today (Thursday) that would give relief to our churches. Look at our churches, who have been under this restriction that gatherings of ten people or more are not allowed.”
Spain said safety guidelines, including social distancing and facial coverings, could easily be applied to places of worship, allowing them to reopen.
On Wednesday, Spain introduced a retail fairness initiative that aims to level the playing field for Illinois’ small businesses having to compete with the big box stores.
“The language in this bill is what’s important, which in layman’s terms, would end the practice here in our state of picking winners and losers, by keeping certain businesses closed and other businesses open.”
Spain’s proposal was submitted to the Legislative Reference Bureau.
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