SACRAMENTO — A new, statewide order was put in place Thursday by Gov. Gavin Newsom requiring face masks be worn in most public settings, particularly those indoors. Newsom said he’s implementing the order in an effort to maintain the progress made in reopening the state’s economy. “Simply put, we are seeing too many people with faces uncovered – putting at risk the real progress we have made in fighting the disease.”
“California’s strategy to restart the economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations,” the governor added. “That means wearing a face covering, washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.”
Newsom also said Thursday that “science shows that face coverings and masks work. They are critical to keeping those who are around you safe, keeping businesses open and restarting our economy.”
Michigan, New York, Maine, Delaware and Maryland already have statewide masks orders.
Some people are exempt from the mask order, including:
- Children 2 years old or younger.
- Anyone with a medical, mental health or development disability that limits them from wearing one.
- Anyone who has hearing impairment from wearing a mask.
- Anyone obtaining a service involving nose or face.
- A person seated in a restaurant while eating or drinking, as long as they can stay physically distanced from others in the location.
- People who are incarcerated.
- People engaged in outdoor work or recreation, like walking, hiking, running or bicycling when alone or with household members.
