Kendall County Times

Veteran state Sen. Jim Oberweis (R-Sugar Grove) is at a complete loss in understanding Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s latest push to control COVID-19.

“If the state is actually going to fine someone, shouldn’t it be the person that breaks the law,” Oberweis told the Kendall County Times.

The governor recently announced he wants to enact a rule that would allows businesses to be fined up to $2,500 for failure to enforce regulations for face coverings and social distancing. As Republicans have quickly voiced their opposition to the proposal, the governor has defended his position by arguing the change will aid law enforcement, local boards of health, school districts and the public in enforcing the use of face coverings and social-gathering restrictions.

“There is no doubt that wearing masks when indoors in close contact slows the spread of the virus,” said Oberweis, who is now running against incumbent U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Naperville) in the 14th Congressional District. “But having said that, it is up to individuals to wear masks. Holding businesses accountable for the actions of individuals is simply not fair.”

In May, Pritzker tried enacting similar legislation, but withdrew it before a planned Joint Commission on Administrative Rules hearing amid much criticism.

As was the case back then, Oberweis worries about the impact such actions would have an already crippled small business industry.

“Businesses are trying desperately to reopen and follow the guidelines given to them and they have a vested interest in ensuring that Illinois stays open,” he said. “Most businesses are doing a very good job of keeping people safe. There is no reason to hold businesses accountable for the actions of individuals who do not follow the safety guidelines.”