Racine Council Mandates Masks, Lets Police Fine Violators

RACINE, WI — The Racine Common Council on Tuesday passed an ordinance allowing individuals to be fined if they refuse to wear masks whenever they aren't able to socially distance in public, WISN-TV reports.

According to the report, the ordinance also allows businesses to be fined, or to lose their operating licenses, for failing to enforce the mask ordinance.

The Racine County Eye reports people who violate the ordinance could be fined $25 for the first violation, $50 for the subsequent offense and $100 for each violation that follows.

Businesses face fines between $50 and $500, according to the report.

The County Eye reports the mask ordinance makes exceptions for kids 4-years-old and younger, people with certain medical issues, those who would be at risk if wearing a mask at work and people who are seated and eating or drinking at a food or beverage establishment.

CBS 58 reports the ordinance will be enforced by the Racine Police Department. According to the report, the department said enforcing the mandate would not be a significant priority and would instead focus on handing out masks to people who need them.

The ordinance takes effect on July 27 and lasts until the end of 2020. CBS 58 reports the council added an amendment to the mandate that allows them to reconsider it in October.