New Rules For Mask Use In CT Revealed: What You Need To Know

CONNECTICUT — The state of Connecticut has adopted several changes to its mask mandate as the new order went into effect Friday and will last for six months.

The new executive order states: "Effective immediately, any person in a public place in Connecticut, whether indoors or outdoors, who does not maintain a safe social distance of approximately six feet from every other person shall cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth face-covering.

"In addition, individuals shall use a mask or cloth face covering when using the services of any taxi, car, livery, ride-sharing or similar service, or any means of mass public transit, or while within any semi-enclosed transit stop or waiting area.

"Nothing in this order shall require the use of a mask or cloth face covering by anyone for whom doing so would be contrary to his or her health or safety because of a medical condition, a child in a child care setting, or anyone under the age of 2 years.

"Any person who declines to wear a mask or face covering because of a medical condition shall be exempt from this order and any requirement to wear masks in Sector Rules or other rules issued by the Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), but only if such person provides written documentation that the person is qualified for the exemption from a licensed medical provider, the Department of Developmental Services or other state agency that provides or supports services for people with emotional, intellectual or physical disabilities, or a person authorized by any such agency.

"Such documentation need not name or describe the condition that qualifies the person for the exemption .... This order shall take effect immediately and remain in effect for six months."

Earlier this week Gov. Ned Lamont said the mask exemption has been abused by people who don't really have a medical condition that would make mask use unhealthy.

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"I think people are beginning to abuse that privilege so from here on out just bring your doctor's permission with you when you aren't wearing that mask and are in that store," he said at his news conference.

The state will step up enforcement on large private gatherings. The current reopening rules allow up to 25 people indoors and 100 people outdoors at private gatherings. The same rules that apply to stores, such as mask use, apply in those instances as well, Lamont said.

Connecticut will also step up enforcement of businesses that are violating rules with fines and potential closures.