March 23, 2020 – Madison, WI – In response to Governor Ever’s press conference Monday afternoon, March 23, 2020, Senator Duey Stroebel (R-Cedarburg) issued the following statement:
“These are unusual times for Wisconsin and everyone understands extraordinary measures are necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19. We know these measures can change when conditions on the ground change, and all Wisconsinites appreciate the hard work of the medical professionals and countless essential services personnel for their efforts toward this end. Wisconsinites are looking for leadership. It is important Governor Evers considers the full ramifications of what appears to effectively be a shelter-in-place order.
“I am concerned about the pending shelter-in-place order Governor Evers will issue pursuant to his executive powers using the emergency declaration and its effects on Wisconsin. Over the past week, I have witnessed Wisconsinites responsibly limit their personal activities, comply with precautionary measures, and alter business practices to provide maximum prevention while allowing some semblance of our society as we know it to continue. These actions have reinforced my trust in Wisconsinites to responsibly make decisions. The bottom line is, how will the Governor’s new edicts ultimately impact the spread of COVID-19?
“This new order is a reversal of the Governor’s own statements just a few days ago. Such reversals without explanation is not leadership. I hope the new order is well-vetted and complete. Defining ‘essential’ services is a critical portion of any shelter-in-place order. Today’s press conference did not clear up ambiguities regarding the initial announcement. I worry there may be a repeat of questions and subsequent clarifications as occurred after last week’s order. Before Governor Evers issues his shelter-in-place order, I encourage him to consider all the costs to businesses and Wisconsin families before ordering implementation of measures unprecedented in living memory.”