Ohio governor announces new mask requirements, restrictions on social gatherings
As Ohio sees record numbers of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Gov. Mike DeWine issued new requirements around mask-wearing and restrictions on social gatherings, including dancing.
"Now we have been warned that when it got colder and drier and people were indoors more, the virus would rise up again," DeWine said during a televised address to Ohioans Wednesday evening. "It certainly has. This surge is much more intense, widespread and dangerous."
Every single county in Ohio has a high rate of virus spread, the governor said, and on Tuesday the state reported its highest number of new COVID-19 cases, with 6,508. Hospitalizations, including the number of patients in intensive care units, have also reached record levels, he said.
To help curb the spread of the virus, DeWine announced that the state's mask mandate will be reissued on Wednesday with three additional provisions: Each business will be required to post a face-covering requirement sign at all public entrances to the store; each store will be responsible for ensuring customers and employees are wearing masks; and a new retail compliance unit will inspect businesses to ensure compliance of the mask order.
A first violation will result in a written warning, while a record will result in the closure of the store for up to 24 hours, the governor said.
"Most retail businesses have done a good job providing a safe place for their employees to work and for their customers to shop. However, it's clear that there is some businesses where mask-wearing simply lacking," he said.
"We must do this to protect our front-line workers," he said.
The governor also announced "significant restrictions" on social gatherings that will be issued in the next few days, following "rapid spread" of the virus due to events like wedding receptions and funerals.
Under the forthcoming order, "open congregate areas can no longer be open," he said, and people need to be seated and wear masks unless eating or drinking. The order also prohibits activities like dancing and games, he said.
DeWine warned that restaurants, bars and fitness centers may be forced to close if the current trajectory continues. The state will be revisiting a decision on those businesses on Nov. 19, he said.
The governor also pleaded with the public to refrain from hosting and attending gatherings, and to avoid celebrating Thanksgiving with those outside your household or bubble.
"We just need to avoid any unnecessary additional risk right now," he said.
