Montgomery County lawmakers are soon voting on a new regulation that would require everyone inside of an essential business to wear face masks or face coverings.
The city council plans to introduce the regulation and vote on it next Tuesday, April 14th. Should it pass, the regulation would then be implemented in two phases.
Upon passing, next Thursday, April 16th would see the first phase go into effect. This would mean that all businesses currently operating and considered essential will be required to provide face coverings for their employees.
The second phase would then take effect on Thursday, April 23rd and would require all customers who visit an essential business to wear face coverings.
"Workers at grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores and other essential businesses are putting their lives at risk to keep us all fed and cared for during this emergency. We must do everything we can to protect them. Combined with keeping our distance, staying home as much as possible, and washing our hands, wearing a mask helps protect both the wearer and those around them," says Councilmember Hans Riemer.
The face coverings would not be required to be a medical grade or N-95 respirator, but at least a cloth face covering that meets the criteria of CDC guidelines would suffice.
Source: Patch.com
Photo: Getty Images