WASHINGTON, D.C. — While appearing before the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security on Wednesday, Illinois Gov. J-B Pritzker asked for a national containment strategy for COVID-19 that includes mandatory masking.
Illinois was one of the first states in the nation to require masks be worn in public on May 1.
“It’s not too late for the federal government to make an impact. In fact, it’s more important than ever,” Pritzker said.
Pritzker also called for clarity from the federal government on insurance coverage for the coronavirus and additional testing.
“Testing is not a one-off tactic. We need regular testing across our population,” Pritzker said. “That means people need to know their insurance will cover their testing every time.”
Illinois’ response to COVID-19 began in March when Gov. Pritzker issued a statewide stay-at-home order and closed schools (for in-person instruction) and businesses.
