Governor Urges Local Leaders To Step Up Enforcement Of Mask, Physical Distancing Rules

 

He says COVID-19 increases due to non-compliance with face the rules.

 

 

Annapolis, Md (KM) Governor Larry Hogan is urging local officials to step up enforcement of public health requirements in bars and restaurants.

In a letter to county leaders , Hogan said state health officials have noticed an increasing number of COVID-19 cases are related to non-compliance with face coverings and physical distancing rules. “The vast majority of bars and restaurants are in compliance, but some are flagrantly violating the law and endangering public health,” The Governor’s letter says. “You have the responsibility  to enforce these laws. Violators  should be warned, fined, have actions taken regarding  their licenses, or closed if necessary. Local health departments, local liquor boards and inspectors, and local law enforcement agencies must work together to ensure public health is protected.”

The Governor said, in his letter, that 12 states have re-closed these establishments due to increases in coronavirus cases, and he doesn’t want to do that in Maryland. He said COVID-19 cases continue to decline in Maryland.

He also noted that the positivity rate for Marylanders   35 is now 84% higher than it is for Maryulanders 35 and older.

“Our continued economic health and recovery depend on active and  aggressive compliance and enforcement of these public health measures,” says Hogan. “We cannot allow a small segment of willful violators to squander the collective efforts of the overwhelming majority of Maryland citizens and businesses.”

 

 

By Kevin McManus