Face covering requirement in effect across Mass.
By Mike Berger
Highway & Maintenance Supervisor Bill Walsh wears a mask outside the DPW building. (CCTV photo)
On the heels of an advisory on face coverings issued last week by the Canton Board of Health, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker issued a new state-wide order requiring all residents of the commonwealth over age 2 to wear a mask or face covering in public when social distancing measures are not possible. The order went into effect on Wednesday, May 6.
Enforcement of the order will fall on the shoulders of each community and those who violate it could have to pay a fine of up to $300 per violation. Selectmen Chairman Chris Connolly, who also serves on the town’s COVID-19 Task Force, said he has conferred with the Board of Health and agrees that the governor’s order requires face coverings to be worn in all essential retail stores, including grocers, pharmacies, and convenience stores. If a person is walking in public and can maintain a distance of at least six feet from others, a mask is advised but is not required.
Police Chief Ken Berkowitz was asked about his department’s enforcement of the order. “Although we have the statutory authority to impose fines, we are hoping that people will voluntarily comply,” he said. “There are a lot of people who are out of work right now and I’d hate to compound their financial worries by fining them. It’s an option I’d rather see us not use unless we absolutely had to.”
Berkowitz said all CPD personnel are wearing face coverings, including when they are out of their cruisers or interacting with other officers. In terms of walking outside, Berkowitz said it’s up to each person whether they choose to wear a mask.
“If they think they can stay six feet apart, they technically don’t have to wear a mask,” he said. “I started wearing one Monday when I’m out walking, and I got used to it quickly. For everyone’s benefit and health, I’d encourage others to do the same.”
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=66618
Posted by Mike Berger
on May 8 2020. Filed under News.
Both comments and pings are currently closed.
