California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued a statewide order on requiring all Cali residents to wear a face covering in most indoor settings and outside whenever they are unable to keep 6 feet apart.
“Science shows that face coverings and masks work,” Newsom said in the order. “They are critical to keeping those who are around you safe, keeping businesses open and restarting our economy.”
More than 5,000 people have died from the disease in California alone and the state has recorded 160,000 cases.
“Simply put, we are seeing too many people with faces uncovered — putting at risk the real progress we have made in fighting the disease,” Newsom said in a statement. “California’s strategy to restart the economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations. That means wearing a face covering, washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.”