Beginning today – July 1 – Oregonians statewide are required to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces.
The guidance applies to businesses and members of the public visiting indoor public spaces. Face covering requirements are already mandated in eight counties.
“The choices every single one of us make in the coming days matter,” said Gov. Kate Brown. “Face coverings that cover your nose and mouth play a critical role in reducing the spread of this disease because droplets from our breath can carry the virus to others without us realizing it. If we all wear face coverings, practice six feet of physical distancing in public, wash our hands regularly, and stay home when we are sick, then we can avoid the worst-case scenarios that are now playing out in other states.”
The statewide mask requirement comes after continued increases in the spread of COVID-19 since reopening. COVID-19 cases have increased each week for four straight weeks statewide. While large workplace outbreaks have driven increased cases in recent weeks, sporadic cases (those with no clear link to another case) account for a growing percentage of new cases.
Brown said she is hopeful Oregon will not have to shut down the economy due to new outbreaks.
“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.”
She also encouraged Oregonians to downsize Fourth of July plans.
“We saw a lot of new COVID-19 cases following the Memorial Day holiday,” Brown said. “Another spike in cases after the upcoming holiday weekend could put Oregon in a dangerous position.”
