TOPEKA, Kan. — Gov. Laura Kelly has ordered that every person in Kansas must wear a mask in public spaces starting July 3.
The order includes not only indoor public spaces, but also outdoor public spaces where six feet of social distancing cannot be maintained.
Kelly said more specific guidance will be released Thursday.
The news comes after the state added more than 900 cases of COVID-19 since Friday. The order will go into effect just before what’s expected to be a busy Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Editor's note: the folllowing is a press release from Governor Kelly
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that she will sign an Executive Order requiring that most Kansans in a public space must wear a mask, beginning 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 3.
“This is a simple, proactive step we can take to keep Kansans at work, get our kids back to school, and keep ourselves and our neighbors healthy,” Governor Kelly said. “Wearing a mask is not only safe – but it is necessary to avoid another shut down.
“Remember – my mask protects you, and your mask protects me,” Governor Kelly said. “We’re all in this together.”
Under the order, most Kansans must wear masks in stores and shops, restaurants, and in any situation in which social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside. The EO will be released on Thursday, and will provide specific guidance regarding under what circumstances masks must be worn.
“I know Kansans will have many questions about this order – and we will answer them when it is released later this week,” Governor Kelly said. “But by announcing the requirement today, people in our state will have the appropriate time to acquire the masks.”
The Kansas Attorney General’s Office will work closely with officials in Governor Kelly’s administration to ensure that the order complies with Kansas law.
For more information on COVID-19 health guidance, please visit www.covid.ks.gov.
© Associated Press
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