Sangamon Sun

Veteran state Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) is hoping some of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s latest actions on the COVID-19 front suggest he’s coming to understand his one-size-fits-all approach to things isn’t in the state’s best interest.

"I'm glad that the governor has finally heard the bipartisan call of lawmakers who have been pleading with him for a more common-sense, regional approach, based on smaller districts,” McClure told the Sangamon Sun. “We can all debate the validity of the new boundaries, but this is, at least, a step in the right direction.”

Citing higher positivity rates, the Chicago Tribune reports Pritzker moved this month to re-enact tighter restrictions at bars and restaurants in Will and Kankakee counties. Among the changes is the banning of indoor service, an 11 p.m. curfew, and capacity limits of 25% at those establishments.

Pritzker moved to enforce the new restrictions after the counties suddenly posted positivity rates of better than 8% on three consecutive days.

In order to return to Phase 4 of the governor’s five-part Restore Illinois plan, the positivity rate needs to decline to 6.5% by the end of a two-week period. As of now, other rules for bars and restaurants include a 6-feet apart rule for outdoor gatherings, a no congregating at bars stipulation, and a reservation requirement for each party.

Pritzker also recently moved to enact a statewide policy mandating that all patrons wear a mask at restaurant and bars while interacting with wait staff and other employees, moving McClure to reflect things can still be better.

“Our constituents expect us to have a role in this process as their duly elected representatives in state government, and it is disheartening that we are once again receiving this information after a decision has already been made," he said of the tighter restrictions.

As of Aug. 25, the Department of Public Health announced the state has reported 223,470 overall cases of the virus including 7,917 deaths.