INDIANAPOLIS — Marion County's new mandatory mask order took effect at 8 a.m. Thursday. The mandate requires masks be work in public places, indoors and outside when when maintaining social distancing of at least six feet is not possible.
The Marion County Public Health Department issued the order in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the number of cases in Indianapolis has stabilized, many other places across the country have seen a dramatic increase in the number of infections and deaths.
While the mask rule is "mandatory," health officials said their hope is that people will abide by it voluntarily. They've said their intent is not to "punish," but "educate" people on how important face coverings are in reducing the spread of the highly infectious virus.
Indy Parks put up signs announcing changes at its pools and indoor family/rec centers. Masks must now be worn when entering/leaving a city pool but not while in the water. Masks are also required inside park buildings. That goes for kids attending summer day camps. Notice was given to their parents earlier this week.
A spot check of area businesses by 13News found a mixed response to the mandate.
Watch 13News tonight at 5 to learn what we heard from some employees and customers about the mandate.