State Capitol Report: COVID-19 Delays Court Cases, Impact Of Eliminating The Mask Mandate

Air Date:
Heard On The Morning Show
A snowy scene at the Wisconsin State Capitol
Sidewalks are mostly empty around the Wisconsin State Capitol on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, in Madison, Wis. Angela Major/WPR

First, we talk with the state public defender about how the pandemic has slowed criminal court cases across Wisconsin. Then, a Democratic lawmaker discusses how Wisconsin could lose $49 million in emergency food funds from the federal government if the legislature ends the state mask mandate.

Featured in this Show

  • Wisconsin's Court System Slows Down

    While trials have not stopped, a substantial number of people in jails must wait for court due to pandemic-related delays. Wisconsin’s state public defender joins us to discuss this slowdown and merit pay issues for staff attorneys.

  • Consequences Of Overturning The Mask Mandate

    Republicans in the Legislature almost overturned Gov. Tony Evers’ mask mandate last week, but delayed after realizing it could cost the state $49 million in emergency food funds. We talk with a Democratic legislator about the maneuvers and how to confront the ongoing pandemic and help families.

Episode Credits

  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • L. Malik Anderson Producer
  • Joe Tarr Producer
  • Kelli Thompson Guest
  • Evan Goyke Guest
  • Lee Rayburn Technical Director

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