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Face mask mandate now in effect in Orange County

Orange County, Fla. — If you are working, living, visiting, or doing business in Orange County, you will now be required to wear a face mask. The mandate was announced on Thursday by Mayor Jerry Demings and went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Saturday.

This mandate is in response to the record breaking 3,200 new cases that were reported on Thursday. At last check, the Department of Health's dashboard shows that the median age range for most cases in Orange County is between 25 and 34.

However, there are some exceptions to this ruling. Anyone under the age of two years old or that has an existing health condition are not required to wear a mask. This exemption also applies to people who are exercising while maintaining social distance or work in a profession that does not have face to face interactions or where a face covering would not be compatible with their responsibilities. In addition, the ruling does not apply to employees and patrons of first response, government, healthcare or medical, veterinarian, shelter or rehab, childcare, utility providers, construction, or transit agencies.

Although Mayor Demings says that those who don't follow the order will not be fined or face criminal charges, he says "We want voluntary compliance with this."

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