Masks Now Required in Certain Areas of the KC Metro

covid 19 update graphic 2Following recent executive orders announced in Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Mo., Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has also announced that as of Friday, July 3, face masks are required in public spaces. “Under the order, most Kansans must wear masks in stores and shops, restaurants, and in any situation in which social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside.”

On July 2, Governor Laura Kelly released details regarding when and where masks are required within the state of Kansas. Executive Order #20-52 stipulates that beginning at 12:01 a.m. on July 3, most Kansans must wear a mask while in public spaces, and in places where individuals are unable to maintain social distancing of 6 feet.
Under the order, Kansans are required to wear masks when inside any public space – including their workplace – or in situations where social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained. Guidance regarding specific places or situations in which masks are required is outlined within the order. The order lasts until rescinded or the expiration of the statewide State of Disaster Emergency, whichever comes first.
The Board of Johnson County Commissioners held a special meeting on July 2, to consider whether to approve Governor Kelly’s mask order. After more than two and half hours of discussion and public comment, the seven member board voted to support Gov. Kelly’s mask requirement in a 4-2 vote with one abstention.

Similarly, Jackson County, Mo., has announced orders requiring masks in public places starting Wednesday, July 1, and lasting two weeks. “All persons inside public buildings and in public outdoor settings must wear a face covering. This is in response to a continued increase of COVID-19 cases in Jackson County and the surrounding area,” according to the Jackson County Health Department’s Twitter feed.

As of Thursday, July 2, North Kansas City, Mo., is also requiring residents and visitors to wear face coverings. The order will remain in effect until Sunday, July 12. “All employees or visitors to any indoor public accommodation must wear face coverings or masks that cover the nose and mouth. These spaces include, but are not limited to, grocery and other retail stores, special events, and public transit,” the NKC city website states. NKC has also provided a list of FAQs regarding the order.

The KCHBA is sending this message to you for informational purposes so that our members are up-to-speed on the latest news affecting business across the metro. KCHBA staff will alert you to any additional updates as well as changes in policy in other jurisdictions within the metro as information becomes available. If you have any questions or if the staff at KCHBA can be of assistance in any way, please let us know.