Executive Order To Require Face Coverings In Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE, RI — With the end of Rhode Island's stay-at-home order expected to begin the slow process of reopening the state, Gov. Gina Raimondo said that the state will need to double down on infection control practices to avoid a sudden spike in cases. Starting Friday, all Rhode Islanders will be required to wear a fabric face covering when out in public.

Raimondo said she is announcing the executive order now to give residents time to prepare for Friday's starting date. The order will apply in all public areas, both indoor and outdoor, where there is a chance of coming within 6 feet of another person. Masks need not be specially made, the governor said. A scarf, bandanna or other fabric can be just as effective as long as the nose and mouth are covered. Tutorials to make face coverings can be found on the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention's website.

"I fully recognize this is going to be awkward, strange, some people will think it's unnecessary," Raimondo said. "I know that if you cover your nose and your mouth it does have a significant impact in reducing the spread of the disease."

Cloth face coverings are effective because they help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that can carry coronavirus, said Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. While an effective tool, masks are not an alternative to staying home if you have symptoms, she reiterated.

"One single cough can result in a person spreading 3,000 droplets," Alexander-Scott said.

There are exceptions to the order, including children under 2, the developmentally disabled who cannot reasonably wear a mask and people who would not be able to breathe with a face covering.

While a face covering won't be required in every instance, such as for solitary walks or bike rides, all Rhode Islanders are encouraged to carry one with them at all times, in case they come in contact with someone.

"Don't leave your house without a face mask ... Don't leave home without it," Raimondo advised. "The best way we are going to get through this is to really accept that the virus is really here for a year until we can get a vaccine or a therapy. ... We have to accept how to live our lives, and run our businesses, with a new set of restrictions."

Once the executive order goes into effect Friday, there will be fines for those who do not obey the order Raimondo said. The specific penalties are still being finalized, she said.

Patch Editor Scott Souza contributed to this report.

Coronavirus in Rhode Island: Latest headlines

• After Days-Long Plateau, RI Sees Uptick In Coronavirus Cases
• Phase 1 Reopening: What To Expect At RI's Stores, Restaurants
  
• URI Plans Virtual Commencement For Class Of 2020
  
• RI Chopped Champion Raising Money For Local Food Bank
  
• Seasonal Free Parking Extended In Newport To June 1