If your summer plans include a trip to our Florida Keys... Grab a Face mask or two...
Yes... It is now the law to cover both your nose and mouth with some type of facial covering when inside.... a bar, a restaurant or if inside other businesses with a roof.
Leaders in our Florida Keys this week unanimously decided to make wearing a face coverings mandatory while inside a public place, with exceptions such as while eating or drinking.
In particular, Key West officials are warning people that they could be cited for a violation for failing to wear a mask while inside a business, since there is " a state of emergency".
The penalty is a fine of up to $500, with no jail time.
The ordinance is to last until June 1, 2021, but Monroe County Commissioners, will revisit the policy every few months.
Highlights of the new Face Mask policy in the Florida Keys.
- You must wear a mask inside any restaurant, bar or store that has a roof. This takes into account tiki bars and outdoor seating at restaurants or farmer’s markets. Also, wear your mask at a hotel unless you’re in your room.
- Yes...Bandanna's, Neck Gaiters, etc... DO comply with the rule in Monroe County. The law states it can be made of materials such as cotton, silk or linen. A cloth face covering may be factory-made or sewn by hand, or can be made out of household items.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend masks for children 2 and younger.