Residents of city in Texas face $1K fine for not covering nose, mouth in public
LAREDO, Texas - A city in Texas is requiring residents to cover their nose and mouth in public buildings — or face a fine up to $1,000.
Starting April 2 in Laredo, everyone over the age of 5 years old must wear a mask or some other form of covering over their mouth and face in certain public spaces to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The covering is required when entering into any building open to the public; when using public transportation, taxis, or ride shares; or when pumping gas.
Those who violate the order can face a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.
BERLIN, GERMANY - APRIL 02: Made-to-order protective face masks lie on an ironing board at the workshop of master tailor Ala Hadye on April 02, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. Hadye, who has had to close her shop due to nationwide measures enacted to slow t (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images))
The City says residents can use coverings such a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or handkerchief.
According to the order, a mask is not required when a person is engaging in a permissible outside physical activity, riding in a personal vehicle, is in alone in a separate single space, is with their own household members, when doing so poses a greater health, safety or security risk, or for consumption purposes.
The emergency order is in place until April 30.
INTERACTIVE MAP: Track COVID-19 cases in Texas
The City of Laredo also implemented a curfew for all residents from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily. Residents are required to say in their homes during those hours and can only leave for essential trips and necessities. Those who must work during those hours should have proof such as an ID or a letter from their employer.
FOX 26 reported this story from Houston.