LOUISVILLE, Ill. (WTVO) — An Illinois court overturned Gov. JB Pritzker’s stay-at-home order, due to a lawsuit by Rep. Darren Bailey, which says the governor exceeded his authority and is violating the civil rights of Illinois’ residents.

“My lawsuit asks the court to find that Gov. Pritzker overextended his power by issuing additional ‘stay at home’ orders after his original disaster proclamation, which expired on April 9th, 2020,” said Rep. Bailey. “Enough is enough! I filed this lawsuit on behalf of myself and my constituents who are ready to go back to work and resume a normal life.”

At Monday’s briefing, Gov. Pritzker responded, saying the stay-at-home order is a matter of life and death, and the ruling has put thousands of people in danger, saying the lawsuit is a direct insult to everyone who has lost loved ones to COVID-19.

Under the ruling, cities could disregard the stay-at-home order and re-open on their own accord.

The temporary restraining order on the stay-at-home order would go into effect on Friday, May 1.

Pritzker said Illinois’ Attorney General is working to have the ruling overturned and have a stay put in place.

House Speaker Mike Madigan released a statement saying, “Like Governor Pritzker, I find Representative Bailey’s lawsuit to be extremely reckless, at a time we can least afford it. The governor’s actions have consistently reflected an understanding that, as we face this crisis, we must be guided by what is right – not what is easy, comfortable or expedient. Clearly, we cannot say the same for all the leaders of our state.”

MORE HEADLINES: