Cass County To Require Protective Face Masks

An Associated Press report says New Yorkers continue to debate whether the mask wearing is needed despite 20,000 COVID-19 fatalities in the state.

New York's governor has ordered masks for anyone out in public who can't stay at least six feet away from other people. 

The movement to order masks has also reached Cass County.

Cass County was one the firsts counties in the state to confirm a case of COVID-19 and is leading the way on orders to wear protective face masks. 

The board of commissioners put a policy in place that will require people to wear masks when entering any government building, including the courthouse. The policy goes in effect on May 18. 

Citizens are encouraged to bring their own mask. But knowing that the word may not get to everyone before they attempt  to enter the courthouse, a mask will be provided to those needing to conduct business there.

Employees are to be in masks when they interact with the public. The department heads will be managing the social distancing in each office.