Senate session slated to vote on striking down the statewide mask order was set to begin half an hour ago. So far, so empty

Senate in session. Several senators unmasked as they prepare for a vote striking down the statewide mask order.

Those I see without masks include Bradley, Feyen, Felzkowski, Jacque, Kapenga, LeMahieu, Marklein, Nass, Stafsholt, Stroebel, Testin...so at least 1/3 of the Senate

In opening remarks, @TimCarpenterMKE does a brief blowing demonstration with and without a mask.

Carpenter likens the mask order to the pushback from the Tavern League after the statewide indoor smoking ban.

"We're in a battle with the coronavirus and what worries me the most is what happened on January 6th," in reference to anti-government anger.

Sen. @StateSenLaTonya says "your right (to not wear a mask) should not prevent my ability to live."

Sen. Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) says "this is not about whether face masks are good or bad."

He says it's a case of process, that @GovEvers should not be able to keep extending emergency orders without the legislature's support.

Nass: We've been living with COVID for a year and individuals can decide for themselves what steps are appropriate.

Not a single public health entity we've heard from over the last year would agree with that.

. @JonErpenbach, addressing Nass, says if your argument is that big government shouldn't tell people what to do, "tell it to a woman."

Erpenbach: following mask guidance is no different than heeding a doctor advising you to cut back on fried foods.

. @SenStroebel says it is not normal or necessary for the governor to keep extending the emergency order every 60 days.

"Re-issuing emergency orders every 61 days is attempting to circumvent the law."

Stroebel: claims of "follow the science" are appeals to authority.

For your daily dose of petty: when @SenatorKapenga reminded @JonErpenbach to wear a jacket while in the chamber, @TimCarpenterMKE took his off.

. @SenKooyenga cites the increase in homicides and suicides last year in Milwaukee County, contrasting that with the decrease in child abuse cases.

He says this is an argument to open schools as teachers, as mandatory reporters, are unable to see if something's wrong with a kid.

The Assembly is now set to go into session in 10-15 minutes. Will NOT take up the resolution ending the mask/emergency order today.