To Promote Compliance, Police Will Likely Hand-Out Masks, Not Tickets

Transcript

Boozhoo, I’m Cole Premo. In today’s update, we’re digging a little bit deeper into the statewide mask mandate.

As we’ve reported previously, the statewide mask mandate, ordered by Gov. Tim Walz, goes into effect on July 25. It’ll require the wearing of masks inside public places and businesses.

According to Minnesota’s health department, the types of face coverings can include a paper or disposable mask, a cloth mask, a neck gaiter, a scarf, a bandanna or religious face covering.

Health officials say the mask should cover both nose and mouth, but should also feel comfortable to wear.

As far as enforcement, there are consequences if someone willfully violates the order. Individuals can be fined up to $100. Businesses could be fined up to $1,000.

However Walz said that he hopes law enforcement will be handing out masks to those not wearing one, instead of tickets. Here he is.

4:51: “Just to be clear, we have an effort to get out 4 million masks to the chamber of commerce. We’ll make it easy for you. We’ll make sure the police have masks on hand, they’d rather give you a mask than a ticket. In the long run this is the quickest way to end the pandemic..”

Health officials stress that the face mask policy does not replace other COVID-19 safety precautions. Minnesotans should continue to socially distance, wash hands, and stay inside if they believe they have been infected with COVID-19.

For more information on the face mask mandate, head to the Minnesota Health Department’s website.

I’m Cole Premo.