Governor DeWine Re-issues Mask Order/Threatens to Close Bars, Restaurants and Fitness Centers

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Wednesday held a statewide broadcast to talk about the increased spread of COVID-19. He reissued Ohio’s mask order with three new provisions. The first provision is that each business will be required to post a Face Covering Requirement sign at all public entrances to the store, each store will be responsible for ensuring that customers and employees are wearing masks and a new Retail Compliance Unit will inspect to ensure compliance.

Governor DeWine also announced that if the trend of high coronavirus spread continues he will be forced to close restaurants, bars and fitness center. He will look at the issue again in one week.

On the issue of schools, DeWine says unless we see a dramatic drop of community spread of the virus, our high education institutions may have to remain virtual when school opens in January. He says K-12 schools must do everything in their power to slow the virus so kids can stay in class.

The Governor said it is essential that everyone remember the existing orders that are already in place. In April he issued an order to limit gatherings of more than 10 people. That limit is still in effect and applies to all public events and private gatherings.

DeWine says when it comes to hospitals, if the spread does not stop, Medical Centers will again be forced to postpone important, but less urgent care. He says make no mistake, if nothing changes, the change could happen in just a few short weeks.