The Republican governor in Maryland issued a new executive order requiring that state residents wear face coverings when they go into public spaces in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
“A few moments ago, I signed an executive order which will require the wearing of masks or face coverings while inside any retail establishments, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores, or when riding on any form of public transportation in Maryland,” said Gov. Larry Hogan. “[The order] also requires all essential retail locations to require their staff to wear face coverings and requires those businesses to put into place appropriate social distancing measures in order to keep their customers and their staff safe.”
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Hogan said the order goes into effect at 7 a.m. on Saturday.
Provisions listed in the order dictate that a person who “knowingly and willfully” violates this order is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding one year, a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both.
“Face covering” means a covering that fully covers a person’s nose and mouth but does not have to be a medical-grade mask, according to the order. The term “face covering” includes, without limitation, scarves and bandannas.
