Reeves lifts most of statewide mask mandate, tweaks other coronavirus rules
Gov. Tate Reeves on Wednesday lifted the statewide mask mandate that was in place since early August, though face coverings will still be required in schools and certain businesses.
"We should not use the heavy hand of government more than it is justified," Reeves said at a news conference. "We have to tailor our actions to the current threat, and make sure they do not go beyond what is reasonable."
Even while recognizing masks were highly effective in cutting virus transmission, Reeves let the mandate expire Wednesday instead of extending it by several weeks as he has done before.
The new "Safe Recovery" executive order, which expires Nov. 11, eases some social distancing restrictions, allowing up to 50% of capacity attendance at school events such as football games, and 50% inside movie theaters. It also provides new limits for social gatherings where distancing isn't possible, to no more than 20 inside and 100 outside.
Masks will still be required on school campuses under the order, as well as inside close-contact businesses such as barber shops. The order's language strongly encourages Mississippians to keep wearing masks everywhere in public, and Reeves said he would continue to do so.
More:
https://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/politics/2020/09/30/gov-tate-reeves-lifts-most-mississippis-covid-19-mask-mandate/3586158001/
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