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New York's New Mask Rule Takes Effect
By
Elizabeth Kim
Published Apr 17, 2020
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Scott Lynch / Gothamist
By
Elizabeth Kim
Published Apr 17, 2020
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Beginning at 8 p.m., all New Yorkers (age 2+) must don a face mask or covering when they venture outside and are unable to socially distance at least six feet from others, including on public transit and for-hire vehicles like taxis and Ubers.
The new rule, which Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Wednesday, will pose yet another critical test for New York City residents who have been under a stay-at-home order for nearly a month. Although there are signs that the curve of infections has flattened, many experts worry about a resurgence. Dr. Anthony Fauci, an infectious disease expert on the White House coronavirus task force, has said the virus is likely seasonal, meaning it won't be completely eradicated.
While some New Yorkers have started wearing face masks, many still do not. And some public areas, including Union Square and Domino Park in Brooklyn, have continued to attract large numbers of people.
There is no civil penalty attached to Cuomo's executive order on face masks, but the governor has said that he is considering fines.
In lieu of a mask, people may also wear scarves or bandanas over their noses and mouths.
During his press conference on Friday, Mayor Bill de Blasio urged New Yorkers to report violations of social distancing on 311. People can now also text a photo to 311-692.
"All we need is the photo and the specific location," de Blasio said. "Just put the address down and we're good to go, and enforcement will happen right away."
The new mask rule as well as the city's 311 texting feature come as criminal justice advocates express concern that the social distancing measures have only further enabled the NYPD to pursue aggressive policing tactics in minority communities. To date, at least 15 people have been arrested and 76 summonses have been issued, according to The Intercept.
Since the coronavirus crisis began, the city has experienced an unprecedented rise in 311 calls. According to the mayor, 311 call center employees typically fielded 50,000 calls a day. In April, the number shot up to 200,000 calls a day. It is not clear what proportion of the calls involve social distancing complaints.
De Blasio said the city was immediately hiring 120 additional people to answer 311 calls.
“My goal is to not even have someone on hold with 311 for one minute," he said.
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COVID-19
face masks
masks
coronavirus
Elizabeth Kim
Elizabeth Kim is a reporter on the People and Power desk who covers mayoral power. She previously covered the pandemic, housing, redevelopment and public spaces. A native of Queens, she speaks fluent Mandarin. Got a tip? Email [email protected]
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