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* Sun-Times…
GOP lawmakers said they will wear face coverings, submit to COVID-19 tests and temperature checks and follow other safety measures when they return to Springfield
Um, the paper didn’t talk to the “right” Republicans.
* A spokesperson for Reps. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia), Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) and Chris Miller (R-Oakland) told me this morning that the three Eastern Bloc members will refuse to wear face coverings during session next week.
But, if they don’t wear a mask then they won’t be allowed inside the Springfield convention center, where the House will meet. From the House’s special session plan…
All persons admitted into the building must wear a face covering at all times. Cloth masks will be provided to members and staff.
From the House rules…
No person is entitled to the floor unless appropriately attired.
That’s never really been enforced, but I suppose it could be used next week.
The Senate has long had the same language in its own rules and it’s been strictly enforced over the years. Jackets and ties are required for men. Gov. Jim Thompson showed up on the Senate floor in a golfing shirt many moons ago and was asked to leave. Before the chamber was remodeled, a sign greeted reporters entering each press box entrance: “Gentlemen must be appropriately attired.” I tried getting one of those signs during the remodeling, but somebody else beat me to them.
* The Senate is meeting at the Statehouse next week and Senate President Harmon’s spokesman John Patterson said the chamber will use the rule to enforce the face-covering policy. Also, you’ll need to be wearing a mask to enter the Statehouse.
I asked Speaker Madigan’s spokesman Steve Brown today what would happen if a member took off his or her mask after passing through security. Would the attire rule be enforced? Brown downplayed that possibility and said Madigan was hoping all leaders would encourage their members to abide by the policy. House Republican Leader Jim Durkin’s spokesperson Eleni Demertzis said her boss had already done that and was planning to remind them again today.
* Anyone can sue anyone for anything, but the likely success of a lawsuit challenging a floor access policy appears dim. This is from the Seventh Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals in Reeder vs. Madigan…
The defendants’ decisions to deny press credentials to Reeder were inseparable from their core legislative activities. They were intimately related to the shared goal of the Illinois Senate and House to regulate access to the floors of the state House and Senate. The defendants are thus entitled to absolute legislative immunity from suit in this case, and we AFFIRM the judgment of the district court to this effect.
The US Supreme Court refused to hear the appeal.
Thoughts?
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:24 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
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They can stand outside and look in thru the windows.
Comment by Bruce( no not him) Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:27 pm
So it seems the very effective Eastern Bloc members will be staging a mini-protest outside of the convention center to complain about being blocked from their duties in an authoritarian state.
Always predictable.
Comment by NIU Grad Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:27 pm
100% they will file a lawsuit if they are denied entry.
hopefully at that point a censure of Bailey starts to gain traction. He’s clearly being vexatious in his behavior.
Comment by TheInvisibleMan Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:29 pm
Wear the mask and show some respect for your fellow legislators and staff, tough guys. You can still be heard wearing them, unfortunately.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:30 pm
I think they are acting like absolute juveniles. They should be denied access. These are perhaps the most unserious grouping of people I have ever seen.
Comment by Demoralized Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:30 pm
Just wear the darn mask. How hard is that? Everything doesn’t need to be a power play. These are people playing children games, when the times call for adults. (Silly)
Comment by Retired Educator Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:32 pm
Cool. They’ll carry CV from legislators/staff from across the state, back to their districts. This is very personally responsible of them.
Comment by not to mention... Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:34 pm
“blocked from their duties in an authoritarian state.”
Because of Madigan.
Comment by Huh? Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:34 pm
==So it seems the very effective Eastern Bloc members will be staging a mini-protest outside of the convention center to complain about being blocked from their duties in an authoritarian state.==
That for whatever reason didn’t cross my mind but I’m betting you are right. They want to be excluded from participating so they can do exactly that.
Comment by Demoralized Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:34 pm
Davidsmeyer and Murphy over in West Central IL said they are refusing to sign the pledge or wear masks. They did it yesterday on the presser with Bourne and Butler asking for regional reopening plans.
Davidsmeyer says he’s going to FOIA the governor’s stats and “science” as he called it.
Comment by WLDS Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:35 pm
Leader Durkin;
Thoughts?
Thanks. #NoLeadership
To the post,
This is the “Hateful Eight” I know….
… see, it’s grandstanding… knowing they can’t enter… so they… are “victims”… the folks not wanting to be victims to their ridiculousness… they are… “bad”
Where is the HRauneriteson this?
Leader Durkin?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:35 pm
If I were Rep. Bailey I’d be more concerned about the temperature check.
There’s more than one way to take your temperature.
Comment by Leigh John-Ella Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:36 pm
Well, if that ends up being the case we can guarantee they will be leading the Michigan style mobs at the Convention Center the next day. Just ridiculous, narcissistic and rude.
Comment by Lt Guv Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:37 pm
I understand that it is easy to find experts that are contradicting each other on this. But it makes some people more comfortable. Maybe think about a few of the folks that will be required to be present that are not getting their name in the a paper that may breath a little easier if you wear a mask.
Comment by the Patriot Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:38 pm
Just give them a Sharpie and a mirror so they can write DNR across their foreheads. I don’t want to waste resources on people who are trying to get sick.
Comment by Cheryl44 Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:38 pm
==There’s more than one way to take your temperature.==
lol. Priceless.
Comment by Demoralized Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:39 pm
The effectiveness of Illinois’ actions in preventing overwhelmed hospitals and deaths allows for this political theater, and that of the GOP congressional delegation. The Gov said elected officials should be leaders in this situation for the good of their constituents. Clearly, these elected officials don’t fall into the “leader” category - cheap opportunists, at best.
Comment by Johnny Tractor Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:42 pm
I’m struck by how quickly the Republican emphasis on “states’ rights” has shifted to “the rights of the 100,000 bored people I represent.”
Comment by Dome Gnome Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:42 pm
karma could self-solve some problems here
Comment by truthteller Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:44 pm
The absurdity of this is stunning. Their decision not to wear a mask will prevent them from doing the very thing they are there to do (theatrical grandstanding aside) - vote on behalf of their constituents. Not to mention the fact it’s incredibly disrespectful to their colleagues. Selfish and stupid doesn’t go far enough.
Comment by Chambanalyst Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:46 pm
Did these guys read the state constitution and figure they can do better as imprisoned or expelled martyrs? Because this stance fits “disorderly or contemptuous behavior” in the current public health context.
Comment by Rich Hill Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:47 pm
“three Eastern Bloc members will refuse to wear face coverings”
The cult must not dare to look weaker than its leader.
“it’s grandstanding“
Rebelsplaying for the base is a terrible thing to do in the middle of a pandemic, while being in a congregate setting with colleagues. They ought to wear face coverings, out of respect for everyone else.
Comment by Grandson of Man Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:49 pm
In lieu of face masks (and given their relevance), they should wear paper bags over their heads.
Comment by Jocko Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:50 pm
So, who is surprised? They are the hateful selfish and childish eight…or three or whatever. They are not being asked to do anything invasive or in any way out of line. C’mon children, grow up and act like State Reps for once. If anyone questioned how idiotic these folks are, here is your proof.
Comment by Elliott Ness Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:51 pm
This is so juvenile. Get back to work or go home to Xenia.
Comment by Boone's is Back Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:51 pm
This global crisis is exposing the dangerous segments of our society. Now is not the time for extremists to put everyone at risk. How many of us or our loved ones will be stricken with the injury or death because the actions of radicals?
Comment by Shane P Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:52 pm
Disgraceful. In no other western democracies are the various right wing, conservative parties seeking to score political points from this crisis. Its only in the United States; both the national as well as various state legislatures.
Comment by low level Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:54 pm
When there is any question about the lack of decency these folks have, they double-down to remove all doubt. They have none.
Comment by Norseman Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:57 pm
Totally on brand for those Bozos to get Covid to own the libs. Sometimes the herd culls itself
Comment by Floyddog Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:57 pm
They are embarrassments to their districts.
Comment by Because I said so.... Friday, May 15, 20 @ 12:58 pm
A legislator who removes their mask on the floor commits assault. Expel them.
Comment by Last Bull Moose Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:00 pm
Interesting. The Illinois Department of Human Rights had to say this in FAQ regarding masks in businesses. Obviously, the same standards never apply to government functions but interesting nonetheless.
What if I have a medical condition or disability that prevents me from wearing a face-covering?
If you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from safely wearing a face-covering, you cannot be required to wear one. However, if you cannot wear one, you will need to request a reasonable accommodation and take extra precautions to protect yourself and others from contracting COVID-19.
Do I have to prove I have a medical condition or disability that prevents me from wearing a face-covering?
No. Proof of a medical condition or disability is not required. It is enough to communicate that you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from safely wearing a face-covering.
Comment by Allin Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:02 pm
No shirt, no shoes, no mask, no dice.
Learn it. Know it. Live it.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:05 pm
Allin, good find. Always know of the medical exemption, but the no proof is interesting. OK, then they just need to request it and we’ll make these 3 the bubbleboys for the session. No problem.
Comment by Lt Guv Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:07 pm
” they can stand outside and look in thru the widows” as long as they keep their tongue in
Comment by Rabid Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:10 pm
Obviously herd intelligence hasn’t rubbed off on these guys and I doubt immunity will as well.
Comment by Precinct Captain Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:13 pm
So as a condition of continued employment. I will have to wear a mask to enter the Capitol Complex and also while at work. I totally agree with it.
How about representing your constituents and wear a mask without acting like a tantrum throwing toddler? Didn’t your civics class teach you that your rights stop at my nose, mouth, fingers, etc? You don’t have the right to make me sick.
Comment by thoughts matter Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:14 pm
Of course they aren’t going to wear masks. It gives the all sorts of opportunity to show their “courage” and complain about Madigan excluding them. Win-win!
If I were Madigan, I would let them in, gavel the session in, appoint these bozos to a special select committee to draft legislation to deal with this mess if for no other reason than to show what a bunch of empty suits they are.
Of course that won’t happen, but if I had access to th House floor I would be buying giant cardboard cutouts of Homer Simpson, Gomer Pyle, Howdy Doody and the like to take their seats on the floor while they are outside enjoying the TV lights. Just so everyone remembers who is missing.
Comment by The Way I See It Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:19 pm
Not at all surprised that IPI lost a court case, but it’s particularly notable that their failed legal strategy created precedent that frustrates the Eastern Block
Comment by Socially DIstant Watcher Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:22 pm
Lt Guv I think that would fit nicely within the reasonable accommodation requirement.
Comment by Allin Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:24 pm
I think they are totally aware that they will not be allowed in. That is the point and to get media coverage with the Holy Grail being a Fox News interview.
Comment by levivotedforjudy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:26 pm
“Interesting. The Illinois Department of Human Rights had to say this in FAQ regarding masks in businesses. Obviously, the same standards never apply to government functions but interesting nonetheless.
What if I have a medical condition or disability that prevents me from wearing a face-covering?
If you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from safely wearing a face-covering, you cannot be required to wear one. However, if you cannot wear one, you will need to request a reasonable accommodation and take extra precautions to protect yourself and others from contracting COVID-19.
Do I have to prove I have a medical condition or disability that prevents me from wearing a face-covering?
No. Proof of a medical condition or disability is not required. It is enough to communicate that you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from safely wearing a face-covering.”
What does this have to do with the topic of the post? The Eastern Bloc certainly isn’t saying they aren’t wearing masks due to a medical condition. Granted, I do think they have some mental health issues that need to be addressed.
Comment by Montrose Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:28 pm
They shouldn’t be allowed in, and that almost certainly means they’ll call in the media etc etc.
It shows an astonishing lack of respect for their fellow-members and staff - one wonders whether they harbor a similar lack of respect for their constituents.
Comment by dbk Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:37 pm
Madigan should put in a mask less area on the HDEM and HGOP side for anyone that does not want to where a mask. High clear wall it with desks six feet apart. Reasonable accommodation.
Comment by Nagidam Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:37 pm
This stunt will be a test of the journalists covering the session at convention center.
Too many will fail.
– MrJM
Comment by @misterjayem Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:42 pm
Oy vey. For those wondering, I promise that not all people from rural areas/southern Illinois are dim-witted, gubment-hatin’, attention-seekin’ groisser putzes. These guys are giving the rest of us rural folks a bad name. Unfortunate and unnecessary.
Just wear the bloody masks already, guys.
Comment by Yiddishcowboy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:43 pm
Montrose, two things. First, I found it interesting, as signaled by my use of the word “interesting” to begin the post, that there is a different standard for customers/businesses than there is for the capitol/lawmakers regarding the requirements of masks and reasonable accommodations. Secondly, I wouldn’t be surprised if the lawmakers that are subject of this post would attempt to use the guidance of IDHR to avoid wearing masks. Obviously, you did not find it as interesting as I did.
Comment by Allin Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:44 pm
Baileys district lacks so many things broad band mental health oh my did I say mental health head shrinkers badly needed and Bailey does nothing
Comment by billyboy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:47 pm
–Madigan should put in a mask less area on the HDEM and HGOP side for anyone that does not want to where a mask. High clear wall it with desks six feet apart. Reasonable accommodation.–
Sort of like a “cry room” at church. Fitting somehow for these guys.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:50 pm
WLDS, Murphy told me he would indeed wear a mask. Don’t know where you got that.
But his Springfield roommate is his wife, so he’s not abiding by that rule. lol
Comment by Rich Miller Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:56 pm
I don’t get the refusal to wear masks. I think if I were on that side of the debate I would want to focus on the practical impact of stay at home (e.g. unemployment). Making it about masks makes them look like they just aren’t taking this seriously.
Comment by Twirling Towards Freedom Friday, May 15, 20 @ 1:58 pm
Chris Miller yells, spits, and curses when he publicly speaks. You can see the videos from last night with no mask on. Masks are probably a good idea when they are foaming at the mouth.
Comment by Holding Back Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:14 pm
They have offices in the Stratton Building. My office is in the Stratton Building. They are examples of why my anxiety about returning to work is at an 11 right now.
Comment by Sangamo Girl Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:20 pm
I’ve been occupied lately, and I’m fairly libertarian, but… just. wear. the. mask. I do.
Comment by DownstateR Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:20 pm
Part of the rationale in arguing for regional control was that businesses and individuals in these areas could implement common sense practices to make things safe. This flies in the unmasked face of that.
What these reps are telling us is that they can’t be told what to do. They and they alone will decide how to handle this virus.
What says you leader Durkin?
Comment by Pundent Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:25 pm
You’ve got to be frickin’ kidding me. They guys are taking it to the extreme. Do they honestly believe this is all a giant conspiracy?
Comment by Just Me 2 Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:26 pm
Makes ya wonder…
Who actually runs the caucus… with such “diverse” thoughts to science, courtesy, and respect to the body and other members?
Let’s see what happens if they come down and don’t wear a mask.
If there’s not a rebuke from the HRaunerites… then I guess the Eastern Bloc Runs the caucus.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:35 pm
They’re irrevelent on the floor so milling round outside will give them some press time. On the other hand, maybe they just don’t like the kinds of masks being offered. If they wore their klan hoods, they would be more at home with the masking.
Comment by Froganon Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:40 pm
Their voices and their arguments will be just as effective if they stay home as if they were to show up and spew their ignorant vitriol from the floor.
Comment by Da Lobsta Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:45 pm
I’m so old, I can remember when the epithet “Eastern Bloc” was synonymous with oppression, persecution of political dissidents, and forced loyalty to nonsensical propagandistic beliefs. Oh, wait…
Comment by Doublechinner Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:50 pm
=== I can remember when the epithet “Eastern Bloc” was synonymous with oppression, persecution of political dissidents, and forced loyalty to nonsensical propagandistic beliefs.===
It’s such a tasty trolling… for the “victims” who are part of that Eastern Bloc group.
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, May 15, 20 @ 2:54 pm
“I don’t get the refusal to wear masks.”
That’s because you’re an adult.
– MrJM
Comment by @misterjayem Friday, May 15, 20 @ 3:05 pm
Somebody should make sure any window these fools are looking in is double-sterilized when they leave. Can’t wait for the video of the Sergeant-At-Arms refusing entry and ordering them to leave for violating the rules, then arresting them when they fail to comply.
Comment by revvedup Friday, May 15, 20 @ 3:19 pm
If Alex Jones were a legislator. That’s Bailey.
Comment by Alex Ander Friday, May 15, 20 @ 4:05 pm
Is DeVore coming to session, too? Anyone want to bet??? These stunts are tiresome and juvenile and potentially deadly, but they don’t seem to care.
Comment by Anon221 Friday, May 15, 20 @ 4:20 pm