Orange County Executive Order Requires Use of Face Masks
With over 14,407 COVID-19 cases recorded in Orange County since March 1st, the State of Florida has emerged as the new epicenter for the coronavirus, reaching nearly 360,000 cases state wide. To control the spread of the virus, counties all throughout the state are considering enforcing the use of face masks as cases continue to ski-rocket, hospitals ICU beds max out, and businesses close their doors again.
Concerning the rapid growth of the virus, on June 20th, 2020 at 12:01am, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings issued an executive order mandating the use of face masks for anyone that lives in Orange County. Demings believes that these measures will help reduce the rate of the virus and ensure the safety of the public.
What Does the Orange County Executive Order for Face Masks Entail?
Emergency Executive Order NO. 2020-23 states that anyone in Orange County is required to wear a face covering, including people working, visiting, living, or doing business in Orange County. The order strongly urges voluntary compliance with the following practices:
- All healthcare personnel, front line workers, and first responders have priority for N95 masks and other surgical or medical masks.
- All businesses are strongly advised to implement CDC guidelines for social distancing and face masks coverings.
- All businesses are recommended to turn away people not wearing face masks
Employees and customers in the following industries are exempt from having to wear face masks. These include:
- First responders
- Government workers
- Health care professionals
- Veterinarians
- Rehab and shelter centers
- Childcare workers
- Construction workers
- Transportation agencies
- Children 2 or younger
- People with existing health conditions
- Active exercisers
What Types of Face Masks are Allowed in Orange County?
Face masks act as a barrier to protect you and others from respiratory droplets that float in the air when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. As of now, there is no restriction on the types of face masks you can wear in Orange County, if they are worn properly. Some common types of facemasks include:
- Medical and surgical masks
- N95 particle respirator masks
- Cloth masks
- Scarfs and head wraps
- Bandanas
- Homemade masks
The most important thing you can do when putting on and taking off your mask is to wash your hands before and after with soap and water for 20 seconds. Other instructions include:
- Mask sure mask doesn’t have a tear
- Make sure exterior of masks is facing away from your face
- Make sure mask is secure
- Make sure masks covers nose, mouth, and chin
- Do not touch the inside of the mask
- Do not reuse disposable masks
- Wash reusable masks daily
Can You Be Arrested for Not Wearing a Face Mask?
Currently, there is a major pushback towards the use of face masks by the Orange County community. People argue that the order infringes upon personal liberties and violates first amendment rights, as well as Florida Statute 381.026(4)(b)(3), which allows patients to refuse or accept medical treatment.
Therefore, if you don’t wear a mask, will you be arrested? The answer is no. People or businesses who refuse to wear, or mandate masks will not be fined or face criminal charges in Orange County yet. Instead, Orange County leaders including Mayor Demings decided to try working with businesses who are non-compliant. The goal includes:
- Visiting the site
- Discussing the violation
- Reviewing mask compliance and other CDC guidelines
- Provide business health info materials
In addition, Orange County is offering smaller businesses a free personal protective equipment bag filled with disposable face masks, hand sanitizer, and cloth masks.
Contact an Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm devote their time to helping people who face various types of criminal charges in Orange County. With over 100 years of combined criminal defense experience, you trust our team will work diligently to build you a strong case. With everything going on in the world today, it’s in your best interest to consult with an attorney about your rights and to gain better knowledge on complex legal issues.
Facing criminal charges is scary and stressful, but with our compassionate criminal defense attorneys on your side, you may have a second chance at making your situation better. Turn to us when you need trusted and skilled legal counsel to fully understand your case and charges. We treat our clients like their family, and we won’t hesitate to take the high road if it’s necessary to get you a favorable outcome. Call our office or complete our contact form for your free consultation today.