Dallas Co. requires businesses enforce masks for employees, patrons or face hefty fine
Dallas County is now mandating that businesses require all employees and visitors to wear face coverings, effective at 11:59 p.m. Friday, after an order was passed Friday morning.
The order runs through Aug. 4 and comes after days of bickering back and forth between Gov. Greg Abbott and city and county leaders around Texas on enforcing mask wearing. Four of the state’s largest counties are now implementing face covering requirements, though Tarrant County has not done so.
Texas has reported record numbers of coronavirus cases this week as Abbott’s “Open Texas” policy continues to expand. Abbott’s reopening began on May 1 and has allowed counties to open up businesses at reduced capacity in multiple phases.
Dallas County commissioners passed the order with a 3-2 vote, “after a fiery debate,” according to the Dallas Morning News.
The order requires businesses to post health and safety policies in plain view for employees and patrons.
“Failure to develop and implement the Health and Safety Policy required by this Executive Order within five calendar days following the Effective Date may result in a fine not to exceed $500 for each violation,” the order said.
Anyone 10 years or older must wear a face covering over their nose and mouth when in a public place “where it is difficult to keep six feet away from other people or working in areas that involve close proximity with other coworkers,” the order states.
People don’t need to wear masks when eating, according to the order. Other exceptions include exercising, when wearing a mask is a health risk, or if a business like a bank requires a security screening, the Dallas Morning News reported.
The CDC advises face coverings for ages 2 or older. Face coverings may include homemade masks, scarfs, bandanas, or a handkerchief.
No civil or criminal penalty will be imposed on individuals for failure to wear a face covering, though businesses can be fined for not enforcing the order.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations over Time
Coronavirus daily hospitalization counts in Texas and the larger Trauma Service Areas, beginning April 8, 2020. Data provided by Texas Health and Human Services.
