Oregon governor makes face masks mandatory in all counties

Announced today via social media, Oregon Governor Kate Brown has stepped up last week’s face-coverings ordinance to mandatory status across Oregon, requiring masks in indoor public places in all counties within the state.

Nearly two weeks ago, Brown issued a statement to the public that she would make face coverings mandatory for select counties and regions within the state. These areas consisted of the most densely populated areas in and around the Portland metropolitan region.

On Monday, after yet another day of more than 100 confirmed new cases of coronavirus reported by the Oregon Health Authority, Brown is extending this ordinance to the entire state.

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Regardless of region, Oregonians must wear masks when inside public spaces like stores, grocery marts, facilities, and more. This order also extended to outdoor events and spaces in which people are within six-feet of others not from their household.

Keeping Oregonians safe is my top priority. Over the last month, COVID-19 spread at an alarming rate in both urban and rural counties. That’s why I’m requiring face coverings in indoor public places in ALL counties, effective 7/1. We can & must reduce the spread of this disease. pic.twitter.com/txZyucIsqm

— Governor Kate Brown (@OregonGovBrown) June 29, 2020

“Keeping Oregonians safe is my top priority,” writes Brown on Twitter.

“I do not want to have to close down businesses again like other states are now doing,” she said. “If you want your local shops and restaurants to stay open, then wear a face covering when out in public. It’s up to all of us what happens next.”

As the Fourth of July approaches, Brown is reminding Oregonians that this pandemic is still very much here and that these celebrations should remain small and local.

“We saw a lot of new COVID-19 cases after Memorial Day weekend. Another spike could put Oregon in a dangerous position of our hospitals being overwhelmed by new cases and hospitalizations within weeks,” writes Brown. “Be smart, please.“