Dallas County judge signs order requiring masks in most indoor spaces

"The transmission of COVID-19 has not dissipated but remains a significant threat to the health and safety of the Dallas County community and rates of infection are increasing at an alarming exponential rate and the number of people ending up in the hospital, ICU, or on ventilators is also dramatically rising despite efforts by local authorities to control the spread," read the order.

"The County Judge has determined that extraordinary emergency measures must be taken to try and mitigate the effects of this public health emergency and to facilitate a response to the public health threat," the order continued.

The order goes into effect as of 11:59 pm on August 11, 2021, "and continuing until rescinded by Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins."

In public school, "all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to child care centers and pre-K through 12 schools, regardless of vaccination status, except for children under 2 years of age," will be required to wear a mask. Students will be required to maintain at least 3 feet of distance between themselves in classrooms," according to the order.

All "commercial entities," meaning those "providing goods or services directly to the public," must require masks for all employees and customers, regardless of vaccination status.

Businesses that do not "develop and implement the Health and Safety Policy required by this Executive Order within three (3) calendar days following the Effective Date may result in a fine not to exceed $1,000 for each violation."

Those visiting or working in Dallas County building will be required to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status.

In general public indoor spaces, people two years and older are strongly encouraged to wear a mask

The order goes directly against an executive order signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in late July, banning the mandating of both masks and vaccines across the state.