Palm Beach County issued an Emergency Order effective Thursday, June 25, 2020 at 12:01 AM to combat the significant increase in the number of positive cases of COVID-19 between late May 2020 through June 2020. This is an attempt to minimize the circulation of the Coronavirus which spreads swiftly from person to person and may result in severe sickness or fatality. The Order is set to expire on July 24, 2020 at 12:01 AM unless extended or terminated prior to.
This Emergency Order for facial coverings extends to businesses, establishments, Palm Tran, Governmental Facilities, and all public places. Public places are defined by any indoor or outdoor areas that are regularly accessible.
Exceptions: There are a few exemptions to the order. Some include children under the age of two (2), people prohibited to wear facial coverings by Federal or State regulations, Emergency Public Safety personnel that wear protective equipment or persons for whom wearing a facial covering conflicts with their religious beliefs or practices. Some medical conditions that makes facial coverings unsafe such as Asthma or COPD are also exempt.
Definition: A facial covering consists of any covering which securely covers both the mouth and nose. Those who are still unsure of compliant coverings should probably review the CDC and Florida Department of Health guidelines.
Enforcement: PBSO and other Law enforcement agencies are authorized to enforce the Order. Terms include the possibility of a warning followed by citations resulting in fines. The fines are between $250.00- $500.00 for each violation. Keep in mind that failure to comply can lead to a range of corresponding penalties.
It is important to become well-informed with the changing laws, orders, and statutes regarding this COVID-19 pandemic in order to stay safe, in compliance and avoid an infraction or criminal charge.
If you find yourself with a Facial Covering citation or any subsequent citations and/or criminal charges, contact Casanova Law. Casanova Law’s founding attorney, Lourdes Casanova is experienced in county ordinances, Criminal Defense, DUI, Traffic Tickets, Immigration, Victim Representation, Sealing/Expungements and more.
Call us today at 561-236-5340
