BREAKING: Governor Cuomo declares face masks mandatory for all New Yorkers

Cuomo noted that the goal for today, as it has been for many days, is to "stop the spread." Requiring a face mask is part of that goal.

"If you're going to be in public and you cannot maintain social distancing, then have a mask," the Governor said. Masks can be as simple as a bandana or a cloth, so long as it covers the airways.

A three-day grace period will be in place prior to implementation of the order. By Friday, the new policy will be in place and New Yorkers will find themselves responsible to cover their faces in public.

When questioned by reporters about those citizens who prefer not to wear a mask while taking exercise out of doors, Cuomo suggested that people carry their mask and put it on when they encounter others, or wear it around their neck and pull it up.

"What's the big deal?" He asked. "Risk-reward is life," Cuomo said.

The "big deal" has yet to be raised by constitutionalists, who deny that executive branches of government have the authority to determine whether or not citizens wear face coverings in public.