COLUMBUS – Gov. Mike DeWine has backed off an order requiring face coverings for everyone interacting in a business to say they’re recommended for customers and clients but still required for employees.
We aren't mandating that customers wear masks in retail locations, but business owners can require it. The recommendation that masks be worn came from business owners to protect employees. They can make a decision that those coming in the door need to wear a protective covering.
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) April 28, 2020
The governor made the change Tuesday after getting public input he says made it clear to him that a mandatory mask requirement is offensive to some Ohioans.
“It’s…my responsibility to listen, to hear and to be respectful of the thoughts and ideas of my fellow Ohioans.
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The decision he announced Monday as part of his “Responsible RestartOhio” plan made masks mandatory for everyone interacting in a business when they begin to reopen Monday.
“Though it is not a mandate, wearing a face covering in retail locations is clearly in the best interest of all Ohioans,” he said. “This gives added protection to others. When you wear a mask, you are protecting those around you from possibly getting sick.”
DeWine also announced that he will form two separate advisory groups to develop plans for reopening dine-in restaurants, barbershops, and salons.
Speaker of the Ohio House Larry Householder, Senate President Larry Obhof, House Minority Leader Emilia Sykes, and Senate Minority Leader Kenny Yuko, are in charge of selecting business representatives and others to develop recommendations for a reopening plan that will include health and safety guyidelines.
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