Holcomb to Mandate Face Coverings Statewide
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowAt his weekly COVID-19 press briefing Governor Eric Holcomb said he will sign an executive order mandating the statewide use of facial masks beginning Monday. Holcomb says the mandate will involve anyone eight years or older while in a public, indoor space and other commercial entities such as public transportation and outside public spaces where it is difficult to be socially distanced from others outside your household.
Holcomb cites the rise in COVID-19 positivity across the state and in counties that didn’t previously have problems that are now reporting regular double-digit positive cases as well as an increases in positive cases among surrounding states.
“We’ve arrived at this juncture because over the past several weeks a few things have happened, there has been a rise in COVID-19 positivity across the state from a low of 3.6% just a month ago to where we find ourselves today with a seven-day average rate of just about 7%. Last couple of days it was closer to 8%,” said Holcomb. “As a lagging indicator, our overall hospitalization census has increased from about 600 a day near the end of June, to about 800, where we are now.”
Under the mandate, Holcomb says violations will result in a Class B Misdemeanor.
Facial coverings will also be required in schools for students in the third grade and above as well as for faculty and staff, volunteers, and anyone else who may be in the school. Holcomb says there will be exceptions for medical reasons, exercise and eating and drinking.
“Our approach since day one has been an approach of education. Of appealing to one’s civic duty and civic good, you might even say public pride in being part of the solution.”
Indiana Chamber of Commerce President Kevin Brinegar gave the following statement regarding the issuance of a statewide mask mandate for Hoosiers:
“Too many Indiana companies, employees and their families are in their fifth month of financial turmoil. That will not change and our economy will not be on the full road to recovery until some certainty is brought to this uncontrolled pandemic. The wearing of masks is a proven strategy for protecting others and enhancing our health – both physical and economic. Governor Holcomb’s order is a necessary step at this time in continuing to reopen Indiana safely.”
You can view the full press conference below: