He lifted the mandate two months later. Republican state Rep. Jason Dockter argued that Hoverson’s bill would strip local governments of control, saying cities, counties, and schools should have say over decisions regarding the coronavirus. “If people wanted to decide to have a mask mandate, they should have that choice,” Dockter said. “They should also have the choice not to mandate.” Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said this week that wearing masks will probably be a part of life into 2022.