Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has issued a statewide order requiring people to wear face masks while in public to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, after reported cases spiked in most states in the last few weeks.
"You shouldn't have to be ordered to do what is in your own best interest, and in the best interest of those you know and love," Ivey said on Wednesday, according to the Montgomery Advertiser. "I still believe this is going to be a difficult order to enforce. And I always prefer a personal responsibility over a government mandate. Yet, I also know, with all of my heart, that the numbers and the data over the past few weeks are definitely trending in the wrong direction."
Alabama reported 2,140 new cases on Wednesday, which is the highest single-day increase the state has seen so far, and 47 new deaths, the state’s highest number in one day. The state has yet to release the most up-to-date information on the number of hospitalizations.
"We're almost to the point where our hospital ICUs [intensive care units] are overwhelmed," Ivey added. "Folks, the numbers just do not lie."
Starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, people in Alabama will have to wear masks “when interacting within six feet” of people from other households while in indoor public spaces, a public transportation vehicle, or while at an outdoor space where there are 10 people or more. This order will last until July 31.
"There's no justification for not wearing a mask," said Dr. Don Williamson, president of the Alabama Hospital Association, at a press conference earlier this week, adding that Alabama has "a very short window to get things under control."
Theodore Bunker ✉
Theodore Bunker, a Newsmax writer, has more than a decade covering news, media, and politics.
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