COVID Protocols Loosened In Douglas County Courts, Including Optional Masks

DOUGLAS COUNTY, GA — With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention easing its mask-wearing guidelines as COVID-19 infection rates return to pre-omicron variant levels in Georgia, the Douglas County court system has loosened its COVID-19 protocols, too.

Up until Thursday, masks were required to enter any courthouse building, and all visitors had their temperatures checked upon entry. Additionally, social distancing of six feet in public areas was required.

Now, masks are completely optional to enter the courthouse, including courtrooms. The public is encouraged to consult their healthcare provider as to whether or not a mask should be worn in public based on their health circumstances.

Additionally, social distancing requirements have been reduced from six feet to three feet in public areas of the courthouse, meaning all jury trials can be accommodated. Temperature checks are also no longer required to enter.

Judges can still opt to continue court proceedings by videoconference when possible, but it's not required. Social distancing of three feet should be maintained if in-person court proceedings occur.

The CDC's new framework categorizes counties by "low," "medium" or "high" risk. The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention isn't recommending mask-wearing in the first two categories, except among people who have underlying health conditions that put them at high risk for COVID-19.

As of publication, Douglas County is in the medium risk category for community transmission, according to Cobb and Douglas Public Health data.

Related: CDC Updates COVID Mask Guidelines: What It Means In Georgia