ST. PAUL, MN (KDAL) – On Wednesday, Minnesota Governor Walz announced an executive order requiring Minnesotans to wear a face covering in all public indoor spaces and indoor businesses, unless you are alone.
The mandate goes into effect on Saturday, July 25.
The Minnesota Department of Health says face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing, but are important in situations when maintaining a 6-foot distance from other individuals who are not members of the same household is not possible.
Research has shown that use of face coverings is a simple and effective step to slow the spread of COVID-19, especially when combined with other prevention efforts such as social distancing and hand hygiene.
Types of face coverings can include a paper or disposable mask, a cloth mask, a neck gaiter, a scarf, a bandanna, or a religious face covering. The face covering must cover the nose and mouth completely. The covering should not be overly tight or restrictive and should feel comfortable to wear.
More information on when and where masks are required and some exemptions can be found at StaySafeMinnesota.gov.
