Illinois Senate Democrats pass right to mask bill, send plan to House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois Senate Democrats passed a bill Wednesday to ensure people have the right to wear medical masks and respirators in public.

Sponsors said the plan will give clear expectations across the state and protect anyone choosing to wear a mask from discrimination or harassment.

Sen. Graciela Guzmán stressed this change could allow vulnerable people to stay in the workforce and potentially decrease the number of Illinoisans needing state disability benefits.

"It's not a mask mandate," Guzmán said. "It does not require anyone to wear a mask or any protective equipment. It protects the right of people who choose, need, or use protective medical equipment to do so without punishment or discrimination."

However, Republicans are concerned the plan could have unintended consequences in the workplace.

"Specifically, I was confused why the Human Rights Commission would be hearing complaints on a business mandate or a disagreement with an employee who wants to wear a mask with whatever they have written on it expressing their views," said Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris). "Employers would have to go through the process with the Human Rights Commission, which we know businesses usually don't win those cases."

Senate Bill 3340 passed out of the Senate on a partisan 37-18 vote. It now moves to the House for further consideration.