Illinois lawmakers lift their own mask mandate, to the relief of critics

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(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The unmasking has begun at the state capitol.

The Senate on Tuesday discontinued its mask mandate by rule, while the House voted 104-1 to drop it. State Rep. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, cast the only “no” vote.

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, D-Hillside, congratulated members for getting through the past two years, but Rep. Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City, said the mask discussions were silly to begin with.

He repeatedly was removed from the House floor for not wearing one.

Wilhour said lawmakers should spend more time rooting out corruption. Other Republicans have demonstrated resistance to the COVID-19 restriction.

The House could reinstate the mask rule if Welch determines conditions warrant.