BALTIMORE, MD.  — Today, Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young signed an executive order instituting a new policy regarding wearing facial coverings. The Mayor advises all residents of Baltimore City to wear cloth masks or other facial coverings, as defined by the CDC, when out in the community and especially when social distancing measures are not possible.

“This executive order is an effort to protect the most vulnerable among us,” said Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young. “This is a public health crisis and we must respond in kind. This new policy is another mitigation strategy to help continue to flatten the curve in Baltimore City. I ask that all residents take this policy seriously and comply for the health and well-being of their families and themselves.”

Today’s executive order also advises residents to wear facial coverings when visiting essential businesses and, when interacting with delivery personnel from essential businesses. The order further directs public and private employers to develop internal policies regarding face coverings that promote the health and safety of their employees in the workplace.

“This aligns with the CDC’s guidance for using face coverings to help slow the transmission of this virus, and I support Mayor Young’s decision to issue this order for Baltimore City,” said Dr. Letitia Dzirasa, Health Commissioner for Baltimore City.

This new policy will remain in effect until the Governor terminates the state of emergency or Mayor Young rescinds the Stay at Home Order.