Round Rock's Mask Order Remains In Effect Through April

ROUND ROCK, TX — Despite Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's latest executive order, the city of Round Rock will still require face coverings through late April, officials said.

The city announced on Wednesday that its order, which was first issued June 29, was readopted on Feb. 25 and will extend through April 29.

Abbott's executive order to reopen Texas businesses at a 100 percent capacity and to lift the state's mask mandate went into effect Wednesday.

More on the story: Gov. Abbott Moves 'To Open Texas At 100%,' End Mask Mandate

The city said its local mask order is an emergency ordinance under Section 3.14 of the City’s Home Rule Charter.

This action does not require approval by the state, and as such is "outside the scope of the Governor’s orders related to COVID-19," the city website said.

Officials said they reached the conclusion to issue the emergency order when the argument was made the state mandate placed an "undue burden on small businesses to enforce face covering mandates," while the city ordinance puts the responsibility – and penalties – on individuals who violate the mandate.

"It is imperative our community slow the spread of COVID-19 to avoid excessive hospitalizations and to help keep our economy open for business," authorities said. "Individuals need to do their part to keep our community healthy and business in Round Rock open by wearing a mask when required as well as other CDC recommendations, including social distancing, hand washing and staying home if you feel sick."

Round Rock isn't the only city to implement a mask ordinance. Austin announced Tuesday it would require all local businesses to enforce face coverings for employees and customers.

Here's the story: Austin Businesses Will Still Require Masks: Health Officials

What happens if someone violates the local ordinance?

Officials said the first instance of violation of the ordinance will result in a verbal or written warning. After receiving a warning, subsequent violations of the ordinance are subject to a fine of $200 for each violation.

Individuals over the age of 10 must wear face coverings when they are not able to maintain six feet of social distancing, both inside public or commercial buildings and outdoors.

Here's when it is okay to take your mask off:

• When you can maintain six feet of social distance
• When exercising or engaging in physical activity
• When in a building or participating in an activity that requires security surveillance or screening, such as banks
• While consuming food or drink
• When doing so poses a greater mental or physical health, safety, or security risk
• When outside with a group of only members of a single household
• When other mitigation strategy, such as plexiglass, provides adequate separation

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