Republicans are protesting the requirement to wear a mask in the House of Representatives, adding to tensions with most Democrats, who refuse to change the rules following updated directives from federal health officials.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy has spearheaded an effort to get the health department to update mask-wearing guidelines for vaccinated lawmakers and staff while they are in the House of Representatives and committee rooms.

Legislators can remove the mask during performances but must wear the mask the rest of the time. There are no requirements for wearing masks in the Senate.

Democratic lawmakers say they, too, are tired of wearing masks, but they are concerned that some of their fellow Republicans have refused vaccinations and could spread the virus.

Some Republican congressmen chose to do without the mask during Tuesday's vote. Their disobedience can be costly. Legislators who refuse to wear masks can be fined $ 500. Subsequent violations could result in a $ 2,500 fine. 

According to the Associated Press, seven lawmakers will receive such warnings, three more have already received a warning and will be fined $ 500.

McCarthy backed up the protest with a resolution that said the mandate to use masks interferes with the House's ability to conduct business properly and effectively.

The resolution said that those who made the vaccine pose no real threat to the vaccinated.