EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. (KMOX) — Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker isn't mincing words when it comes to counties, like Madison, defying his executive order. He says "there will be consequences."
"Businesses and individual professionals that are licensed by state agencies will be held accountable for breaching public health orders," Pritzker says.
Additionally, Governor Pritzker says counties that reopen in defiance of his order may not be reimbursed by FEMA for damages they caused by ignoring the law.
"Local law enforcement and the Illinois State Police can and will take action," Pritzker threatened.
Pritzker is imploring the lawyers of these communities not to give in to a minority of residents who are ignoring the science and data. A reporter asked Pritzker if taking licenses exacerbates the problem.
"They're the ones to bear the responsibility because they're the ones not following the rules. Let's be clear, what we're trying to do here is keep people healthy and safe," Pritzker says.
Madison County Board voted 26-2 to reopen Tuesday, though some members did have concerns with the legal implications. The Madison County cities of Collinsville and Granite City say they'll continue complying with Governor Pritzker's executive order.