Illinois has been ruled by executive order since early March 2020, with Gov. J.B. Pritzker reissuing statewide COVID-19 disaster proclamations every 30 days. On Aug. 20 he declared Illinois a disaster for the 20th time.

Timothy Christian Schools tried to keep their mask-optional policy despite Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s statewide school mask mandate. The state quickly stripped the schools of their recognition, crippling their high school seniors as they started college applications. Masks are now on.

2021’s Illinois State Fair will require all visitors to wear masks indoors and prove vaccination or a negative test to enter certain venues.

Gov. J.B Pritzker extended his own emergency powers and Illinois’ disaster zone status through Aug. 21, claiming they were necessary to promote state vaccination efforts. When asked when he would give up his emergency powers, Pritzker wouldn’t say.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker warned Illinois could see more shutdowns from COVID-19 after announcing his re-election campaign. He said new restrictions would not repeat preferential treatment of big box retailers over small businesses.