Vivien McClain Photography

Statewide mask mandate

Gov. Mike DeWine announced that beginning on Thursday, July 23, at 6:00 PM, a statewide mask mandate will go into effect for citizens living in all 88 Ohio counties. All individuals in Ohio must wear facial coverings in public at all times when: at an indoor location that is not a residence; outdoors, but unable to maintain six-foot social distance from people who are not household members; waiting for, riding, driving, or operating public transportation, such as a taxi, a car service, or a private car used for ride-sharing.

The order only requires those 10 years old or older to wear a mask. Additional exclusions include: those with a medical condition or a disability or those communicating with someone with a disability; those who are actively exercising or playing sports, at religious services, involved in public safety, or actively eating or drinking. Schools should follow the guidance previously issued pertaining to masks.

CALL TO ACTION: Thank you to the organizations, associations, and individuals who are being leaders in the effort to encourage the use of facial coverings in public. We appreciate those who publicly issued statements of support which you can see attached. Please also consider helping to share this important message with your networks on social media using #MasksOnOhio and #InThisTogetherOhio.

Travel advisory

Governor DeWine announced today a travel advisory for all individuals coming into Ohio from states reporting positive COVID-19 testing rates of 15 percent or higher. Those traveling from Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, South Carolina, and Texas should self quarantine for 14-days. The self-quarantine recommendation applies to those who live in Ohio and to people who are traveling into Ohio from any of these states. Additional information is available at coronavirus.ohio.gov for tips on how to effectively quarantine.

Caution on gatherings

Governor DeWine today urged citizens to use extreme caution when considering attending or hosting an informal gathering. The Governor said that we are seeing serious exposures to the virus that are arising from every day events like church services, small house parties, neighborhood get-togethers, weddings, etc.