Wisconsin Governor Evers Issues Statewide Mask Mandate
On Thursday, July 30, Governor Tony Evers declared a Public Health Emergency and issued an Emergency Order requiring individuals to wear face coverings when indoors and not in a private residence. The Order became effective at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2002, and will expire on September 28, 2020 or by a superseding order.
Under the Order, Wisconsin residents ages 5 and older are required to wear a face covering when they are indoors or in an enclosed space with anyone outside their household or living unit. The Order defines “enclosed space” to mean a confined space open to the public where individuals congregate, including but not limited to outdoor bars, outdoor restaurants, taxis, public transit, ride-share vehicles, and outdoor park structures.
The Order also lists exceptions to the requirement, including when an individual is eating, drinking, or swimming. Individuals with health conditions or disabilities that would preclude the wearing of face covering safely are also exempt from the requirement.
The Order sets a minimum bar statewide, but local governments may issue orders more restrictive than the statewide Order. The Order is enforceable by civil forfeiture of not more than $200.00. However, several law enforcement authorities have publicly stated they will not enforce the mask mandate. Under the Order businesses will not be required to provide face coverings for their employees or customers.
Please contact us if you need additional guidance or information regarding the statewide mask mandate or other issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.