31st Judicial Circuit removes mask mandate

The 31st Judicial Circuit Court has removed its face mask mandate that has been in place for nearly two years.

An order issued today by Presiding Judge Michael Cordonnier continues to recommend masks but stops short of requiring them.

"Judges, court staff, attorneys and parties are still encouraged to use all available technologies – including teleconferencing and video conferencing – whenever possible to limit in-person appearances to the extent practical and not prohibited by constitutional or statutory provisions," the order reads.

The order cites updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, which no longer recommends face masks indoors to protect against COVID-19.

The 31st Judicial Circuit mask mandate was implemented in 2020.