N.B. Reverses Decision To Require Face Masks In Buildings Open To Public
FREDERICTON – The province has reversed its decision that people would start wear face coverings when entering public buildings June 9.
On Friday, the province said anyone entering a public building would have to wear a face-covering but could remove it once inside if physical distancing is possible.
“Cabinet has reviewed the decision and it was not the intent to place an additional expectation on businesses or the public regarding wearing a face-covering in a public space. Therefore, there will be no change to the state of emergency order that has been in place since May 14 regarding face coverings,” said the province in a news release Saturday.
That means New Brunswickers will only have to wear a face-covering in public if physical distancing of two metres cannot be maintained. Children under the age of two and those who cannot wear one for medical reasons are exempt, though the province did not provide details on what qualifies as a medical reason.
“People are strongly encouraged to have a mask with them at all times when in a public area so they can put it on if physical distancing cannot be maintained,” said the release.
Ben Burnett is a reporter with Country 94/97.3 The Wave, a Huddle content partner.