Chicago, Cook County Lifting Vax/Mask Requirements

Chicago and Cook County Lifting Proof of Vaccination and Mask Requirements on Monday, February 28

This afternoon, Mayor Lightfoot announced that the city of Chicago will remove the mask and proof of vaccination requirements for restaurants, bars, and other public spaces on Monday, February 28 to align with the state of Illinois’ previously announced plans to lift the statewide indoor mask mandate on that day. Additionally, Cook County has announced it will also lift its respective mask and proof of vaccination mandates on February 28.

Click here to read the city announcement. Click here to read the county announcement.

These announcements are an encouraging sign of better times ahead for Chicago and Cook County's restaurant and hospitality community. This is a meaningful step that will increase consumer confidence and keep our restaurants on a steady path to recovery.

Read more from Chicago Tribune, WTTW, ABC7, and Chicago Sun-Times.

Next Monday - Virtual Springfield Lobby Day

There is still time to register to join the IRA for our Virtual Springfield Lobby Day on the afternoon of Monday, February 28.

We will be meeting with leaders in the Illinois General Assembly to discuss issues of importance to the restaurant, hospitality, and tourism industries, including the need for enhanced relief for struggling small businesses.

Registration is complimentary, and the schedule of meetings will be made available later this week.

Click here to register, and contact Matt Quinn for more information.