Gibson Co. Health Dept. to Fine or Close Businesses Violating Mask Mandate

The Gibson County Health Department says it's cracking down on businesses in the county that aren't complying with Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb's statewide mask mandate.

Communities are looking to re- affirm a measure - experts say - can limit the spread of covid-19.... the gibson county health department -- is hoping to ensure local businesses comply with the statewide mask mandate -- by implementing fines.

44news reporter jake thomas reports from princeton -- speaking with area business owners.

Starting on wednesday, the gibson county health department will be issuing citations and fines to restaurants, convince stores, and grocery stores whose staff is violating governor holcomb mask mandate for food service workers.

Upon first sight of a mask violation, the health department will issue a written warning then a health department staff member will follow up to see if that business is still in violation.

Establishments still not complying with the order will be issued a $250 fine for each day theye non- compliant and if a business continues to ignore the mask mandate, then the health department will shut them down.

And i spoke to a local business owner in gibson county to hear his thoughts on this new policy.

Owner - uniquely michael florist gifts?if that what needs to be done to help get this controlled, then that what needs to be done.

I, unfortunately, think we may have gotten a little bit relaxed.

Ie been to one of our large stores here in town shopping, and i noticed several people were running around without masks?

I spoke to the gibson county health department, they told me this new policy was made for two reasons firstly, the number of covid cases continues to rise in gibson county and secondly, the health department said theye received numerous complaints from gibson county residents about restaurants not following the mask mandate.

Reporting in gibson county, jake thomas 44 news.