Updated Cambridge mask order requires face coverings in public at all times

A new amendment to Cambridge’s mask order, which takes effect on Friday, requires face coverings to be worn in public places at all times and violators could get hit with a $300 fine.

“With people spending more time indoors, there is an increased risk of spreading COVID-19. By tightening and clarifying our face-covering requirements now, we hope to continue minimizing COVID-19 risk in Cambridge,” Cambridge City Manager Louis DePasquale said in a statement.

The order applies to everyone over 2 years old in public spaces such as sidewalks, bus stops, streets, plazas and parking lots.

The city’s previous provision allowed people to remove face masks outside when social distancing could be maintained.

The amended order also clarifies that restaurant customers can take off their masks while dining, but only when seated at a table.

Employees who are working alone in an office with the door closed or in an office suite with no other workers nearby can also remove their mask.

Those who live in apartment buildings must also have a mask on in the lobby, hallway, elevator, stairway and laundry room, according to the amended order.

Cambridge is a city in the green zone on the state COVID map, meaning that risk of transmission is low and there are less than four average daily COVID-19 infections per 100,000 residents.

“I am proud that our Cambridge COVID-19 numbers remain at a low positivity rate, and there is no doubt in my mind that this is related to our residents wearing face masks, keeping their distance from others, and practicing good hygiene,” said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui.

Anyone found violating the order may be issued a warning or a violation notice with a $300 fine, which will be enforced by police and the Cambridge Public Health Department.

Cambridge Police officers in marked cruisers will have a supply of masks to give out if they come across a resident who don’t have one while they’re out on calls for service, according to the city.

“We urge residents to remain vigilant about mask-wearing and to avoid spending time in poorly ventilated indoor spaces or at crowded gatherings where physical distancing is difficult,” said Claude Jacob, director of the Cambridge Public Health Department.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/30Hmhcj