(LEX 18) — In several states across the country, face masks are a requirement this Fourth of July.
In Kentucky, masks are not mandated. However, they are encouraged to keep people safe and keep the economy open.
"With the Fourth of July weekend coming up - with just about every part of our economy open at some capacity - we have to remember there is still a virus out there, and it can still be deadly. Especially to our seniors," said Gov. Andy Beshear.
Across the country, at least 19 states have ordered its citizens to wear face masks in public. Some are enforcing that rule by fining people who break the order.
In Kentucky, people have a choice on whether they wear a face mask in public. However, the governor says we can't pretend the coronavirus is gone. He says people should wear a mask, wash their hands and keep their distance during the holiday weekend.
"Just because you can get together with ten people, or 50 people now, doesn't negate all of those rules," said Beshear. "And we can do this. We can prove that we can reopen our economy. We can prove that we can get back together with people. All we've got to do is follow a basic set of rules. The question is: are we willing to go through something that is just a little bit uncomfortable? Wearing a mask, or when we need to, wearing some gloves to protect everyone around us? I believe we're up for it. And this weekend, we need people to follow those rules."
