Governor Tate Reeves says the mask mandate has led to a decline in the number of coronavirus cases in the state. He says at the peak in July, cases averaged 1,382 per day for a week. Now he says cases are averaging under 500 per day for a week. Reeves says he’ll wear a mask, but the numbers don’t justify keeping a mask mandate in place.
“For the heavy hand of government to tell you you must do something, then the underlying conditions should justify it. When we were at our peak, when we were making those decisions, the numbers absolutely justified it. But because of the work and the effort of the people of Mississippi, we are in a different spot now,” said Reeves.
Instead Reeves says he’s issued a limited executive order that includes wearing masks at schools, at sporting events and businesses like hair salons. The order explains mask guidelines and those for social distancing.
“Group gatherings where social distancing is not possible, are limited to 20 people indoors and 100 people outdoors,” said Reeves
In contrast, State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says he doesn’t know if ending the mask mandate is the right thing to do.
“Really, legitimately I don’t know. I’m going to wear a mask, I’m going to eat outside. I’m not going to have any small group gatherings. I’m not going to go to weddings of my family and it breaks my heart but I’m not going to go. So, I think these are decisions we all have to come to,” said Dobbs.
Governor Reeves says the new limited executive order is subject to change if health officials notice increases in cases. Dobbs says they are watching Jones, Lee and Lamar counties where coronavirus cases are up five
