DeKalb County Issues Order That Requires Masks

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved CEO Michael Thurmond’s amendments to the mask ordinance that passed last week.

Anyone who violates the ordinance the first time will receive a written warning. A second violation will result in a mandatory COVID-19 prevention class online or in-person. Failing to attend will mean a $250 fine.

“We must do everything within our authority to stop the spread of this deadly virus,” CEO Thurmond said. “According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, wearing face coverings or masks, maintaining social distance and washing our hands frequently are the best ways to protect ourselves and the general public.”

The county will also distribute 20,000 masks to local brick-and-mortar small businesses which agree to implement a “No Mask, No Service” policy.

The amended ordinance, which CEO Thurmond asserts is “consistent” with Gov. Brian Kemp’s executive order, requires DeKalb residents over age eight “to utilize a face covering or mask which covers the nose and mouth when in any public place.”

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