Peoria Standard

State Rep. Ryan Spain was among the group of bipartisan lawmakers who signed a letter for Gov. Pritzker urging him to allow an increase in the number of spectators at schools' extracurricular events.

The letter underlines that the safety measures that have been implemented during sports games are clear proof that allowing a bigger audience is possible.  

“Our local school officials are telling us they can accommodate at least 25% audience capacity safely,” Spain said in a statement.

“I am thankful that legislators from across the aisle and across the state are beginning to push back more on Executive overreach now that the legislature is back in session. I hope Governor Pritzker takes this feedback from educators and legislators seriously.”

Part of their letter read: “We believe this same level of safety can be maintained and that outbreaks of COVID-19 can be avoided and mitigated. Therefore, we the undersigned request that grade school, junior high, and high school extracurricular events be allowed to host fans at 25% capacity of each individual gymnasium or school provided extracurricular space that hosts boys or girls school sanctioned contests.”

Spain and others who have supported the letter said that they are “committed to honoring the requests of our constituents and believe wholeheartedly that a 25% crowd capacity and 6-foot social distance limits can be achieved safely.”