Communities start issuing fines to those not wearing masks during coronavirus pandemic

Communities are trying to keep the spread of the COVID-19 virus to a minimum and many areas have instituted mask-wearing requirements. But some areas are taking the rules a step closer and issuing fines and in some cases jail time to those who go maskless.

Charleston, South Carolina, has stopped giving warnings for those who don’t comply with the city’s mask ordinance. Now first-time offenders will be issued a ticket with a $100 fine. A second offense will cost the person $200 and subsequent fines will be $500, WCBD reported. City leaders estimate that about 65% of people in Charleston wear masks, but they want to make sure that instead of being shoved in a pocket or purse, that they’re actually on the face of those who are out in public.

Hoboken, New Jersey, is also expected to fine those who are not wearing masks outside of the home when social distancing can’t be done. The city council is tackling a new fine of $250 for these who don’t have a mask on, WNBC reported.

City leaders polled residents. Of 3,000 responses, 51% approved the fine, while 40% were against it, according to WNBC.

Del Mar, California, has instituted a fine and possible jail time as well as adding signs to remind people about the mask-wearing ordinances, KGTV reported.

The city is spending $20,000 for sheriff’s deputies to enforce the pandemic-related law.

If someone is not wearing a mask and is less than 6-feet away from someone who is not a member of the same household, they can be fined up to $1,000 and be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail, KGTV reported.

The enforcement will run for four months, ending in November before the city leaders decide upon the next steps.

Cox Media Group