UPDATE: Since first announcing the mask mandate on Wednesday, July 22, Gov. Holcomb has removed the criminal penalties in the mandate. The executive order signed by Gov. Holcomb on Friday does not include penalties.
Gov. Holcomb has initiated a statewide mask mandate effective Monday, July 27. The order states the following:
- Applies to anyone eight or older in indoor public spaces, commercial entities or transportation services or outside public spaces when people cannot socially distance.
- Mask use in schools required for Grade 3 and higher for faculty and staff, volunteers and anyone in schools.
- Masks also will be required for co-curricular and extracurricular activities with exceptions for strenuous physical activity.
- Exceptions will be made for medical purposes, strenuous physical activity, eating and drinking.
- Masks are strongly recommended for ages 2 – 7
Failure to wear a mask under the order will be a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
“I am fully supportive of Gov. Holcomb’s executive order,” said Mayor Emily Styron. “This is a public safety and public health issue and we know that wearing a mask is the most effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19. This is not only for us as individuals, but this is for our neighbors, our community, our businesses and our schools. We’re all in this together.”
