Harris County Businesses Ordered to Wear Masks

The Mandatory Mask Order Will Be in Effect Until June 30

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo signed an order into effect that mandates all businesses to require the wearing of protective masks to employees and customers.

The order goes into effect on Monday, June 22, and only applies to people over the age of 10. At the press briefing, she explained the exceptions toward wearing the masks. People exercising, driving by themselves, getting gas, or eating, will not be reuqired to wear the maks. She also mentioned that wearing masks does not negate social distancing.

A vote taken by Fox26 showed that 64% of people feel the government should not force employees and customers to wear masks, but it is clear that some officials are doing so for safety reasons.

One Twitter user said "It's not just for me... it's to protect others. A mask is way more comfortable than a ventialtor is."

Hidalgo says the order is good for business and that businesses who don't require masks have an advantage over businesses that do. She says "this is not a time for grandstanding or scoring political points," to those criticizing the previous stay home order. In terms of enforcing the order, Hidalgo says "We are not a police state. Every order is about education. That's why we need everyone to work together as a community."

Businesses can be fined up to $1,000 per violation but customers cannot be fined for violating the order.

SOURCE: FOX26