Watch Live: La Crosse County issues advisory limiting public gatherings

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — The La Crosse County Health Department Friday issued an advisory limiting public gatherings that aligns with the state emergency order issued earlier this month.

The local advisory does not change or further restrict public gatherings or business capacity, but rather reinforces the existing state order, which limited public gatherings to 25% of capacity. Exemptions outlined in the state’s order are reflected in the local advisory, including  schools, childcare settings, institutions of higher education, churches, political events, state or federal facilities, and organizations related to public infrastructure, health care or human services.

La Crosse County Health Department asks for voluntary compliance from all businesses and has provided education to licensed businesses about the advisory. Any law enforcement report detailing a violation of the advisory will be reviewed to determine if further action is needed. Violations are subject to citations of up to $500 plus applicable court
fees depending on the frequency and severity of the violation.

The legality of the state order has been challenged in the courts by the Wisconsin Tavern League.

Businesses with questions can email covid19@lacrossecounty.org for more information. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, data for La Crosse County has supported the need for further action to protect the public. It remains critically important to follow the guidance available at couleecovid19.org.

The health department will hold a 1 p.m. press briefing today to share more information.

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