JUDGE ISSUING NEW MASK WEARING ORDER

  Milam County Judge Steve Young on Thursday issued a new mask-wearing order mandating persons over age 10 to wear masks while shopping and some other activities.

 The order goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Monday, June 29, and is related to a dramatic increase in COVID-19 infections.

  "Wear a mask when you go into the store or go out in public," Young said. "It may not necessarily protect you, but it can protect the other fellow and that's how we can stop this from spreading."

  Young said business owners are responsible for policing the order and $1,000 fines are possible. "We really don't want to fine anyone," he said.

  There are exceptions to the mask-wearing order as follows:

 a. When exercising outside or engaging in physical activity outside;

b. While driving alone or with passengers who are part of the same household as the driver;

c. When doing so poses a greater mental or physical health, safety or security risk;

d. When pumping gas or operating outdoor equipment;

e. While in a building or activity that requires security surveillance or screening, for example, banks; and

f. When consuming food or drink.

 The order states all businesses and commercial entities in Milam County providing goods or services directly to the public must develop and implement a health and safety policy which provides the following minimum requirements:

• All employees, visitors, including but not limited to patrons, contractors, volunteers and vendors, to wear face coverings that cover the nose and mouth while on the business’s premises.

• All businesses and commercial entities shall deny entrance onto their premises and/or services to any person who refuses or fails to comply.

To view the entire order go to: https://www.milamcounty.net/upload/page/9873/Order%20Declaring%20Disaste...