But after weeks of mixed messaging and leaving the decision of implementing mask mandates up to counties, the state today said face coverings will be required after all.
But as the state reopens and coronavirus cases and hospitalizations climb in some parts, a statewide mask order can perhaps make a difference in controlling further spread, some public health and county officials have said.
This month, Dr. Nichole Quick resigned as the county health officer after receiving threats by people who opposed her mask mandate.
For weeks after cases were first identified in the U.S., the CDC and state public health officials warned against face masks for the general public.
If people aren’t too concerned with safety, then they might be more influenced by social aspects — like whether people around them are wearing masks and what those people are saying about face coverings, Normand said.
