Wisconsin Republicans pitch amendment to block church closures during emergencies

Wisconsin Republicans are proposing a constitutional amendment that would prohibit government officials from closing churches during emergencies. The proposal marks Republicans' third attempt in the last three years to block health officials from closing places of worship or limiting the size of gatherings within them. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in 2021 vetoed a bill that would have kept churches open during emergencies. A similar bill failed to pass either legislative chamber last year. But the governor has no role in ratifying a constitutional amendment. Such a proposal must pass two consecutive legislative sessions and a statewide referendum to take effect.