For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Governor Announces Statewide Face Covering Requirement
INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced he will sign an
executive order requiring Hoosiers to wear face coverings in most public
settings, beginning Monday.
“As we continue to monitor the data, we’ve seen a concerning
change in some of our key health indicators,” Gov. Holcomb said.
“Hoosiers have worked hard to help re-open our state, and we want
to remain open. By masking up, we can and will save lives and slow the
spread of COVID-19.”
A mask or other face covering may be factory-made, sewn by hand, or improvised
from household items such as scarfs, bandanas and t-shirts. The mouth
and nose should be covered.
The executive order will require face coverings for anyone 8 years old
or older in the following places:
- Public indoor spaces and commercial entities
- While using public transportation or other vehicle services such as a taxi
or ride share
- Outdoor public spaces when it’s not possible to socially distance
from people not in the same household
Additionally, face coverings will be required in schools for students in
the third grade and above, faculty, staff, volunteers and anyone else
in schools. Mask are also required for co-curricular and extra-curricular
activities with exceptions for strenuous physical activity.
The order will have exceptions for medical purposes, disabilities, exercising,
and eating and drinking.
The state will approach enforcement of the face covering requirement with
an emphasis on education. The executive order states a penalty can be
levied under the authority of state law. Local governments may impose
more restrictive guidelines.
Once signed, the executive order will be found here:
https://www.in.gov/gov/2384.htm