Gov Pritzker in Illinois issues ruling that can fine businesses $2,500 for not enforcing wearing of masks

The march against freedom in Illinois continues.

For now individuals in the Land of Lincoln are safe.

From NBC Chicago:

The Illinois Department of Public Health will file emergency rules Friday to give local health departments and law enforcement agencies "more leeway" in enforcing the state's mask mandate and social gathering restrictions.

Under the rules, businesses, schools and child care facilities could face fines of up to $2,500 for refusing to comply.

"As I’ve visited with and listened to mayors and health departments all across our state, it’s clear there is still an even greater need to get people to wear masks – especially to protect frontline workers, whether they’re at the front of a store asking you to put on your mask or whether they’re responding to 911 calls to save those in distress,” Pritzker said in a statement. “These rules, which provide multiple opportunities for compliance before any penalty is issued, are a commonsense way to enforce public health guidelines. Illinois has made substantial progress in our fight against COVID-19 because the vast majority of communities and business owners have done the right thing. These rules will help ensure that the minority of people who refuse to act responsibly won’t take our state backward.”

Though the rules do not apply to individuals, Pritzker said they "provide flexibility for local communities."