After seeking the ability to legally require face coverings to help curb a second surge in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations, Austin Mayor Steve Adler signed an order June 17 that requires all employees and customers on commercial properties to wear face masks. The new order is enforceable by a $1,000 fine and extends through Aug. 15.
The breakthrough in enforcement of coronavirus mitigation measures comes one day after Adler and mayors from eight major cities across Texas sent Gov. Greg Abbott a letter asking permission to enforce a face covering mandate. Abbott previously said government could not force individuals to wear face coverings, only to strongly encourage the act.
On June 17, a Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff found a way around Abbott and signed an order requiring employees and customers to wear face coverings while inside a business, similarly punishable by a $1,000 fine. Abbott said he agreed with Wolff's interpretation of the state orders.
"Judge Wolff’s order is not inconsistent with the Governor’s executive order," said John Wittman, a spokesman for Abbott told The Texas Tribune. "Our office urges officials and the public to adopt and follow the health protocols for businesses established by doctors."
