Mask Order Won't Be Lifted Until Emergency Is Over: Baker

MASSACHUSETTS — The state's order on wearing face covering will remain in place until there is no longer "an emergency" — further evidence that masks will remain an integral part of daily life for some time.

Gov. Charlie Baker told reporters Thursday afternoon the order doesn't have an expiration date. It is not clear if there are specific benchmarks tied to when the order could be lifted.

"That order will remain in place until we don’t have an emergency," Baker said.

The order has been in effect since May. It requires people to wear face coverings in public when social distancing isn't possible. Children under the age of 3 and people with medical exemptions do not have to wear face coverings.

Baker on Thursday thanked residents for their compliance in wearing masks and on many occasions touted the importance of doing so. Masks, as well as social distancing, hand washing and keeping from gathering indoors, are vital elements in fighting the spread of coronavirus, he said.

State officials are still preparing as if there will be a second surge of the virus in Massachusetts, possibly this fall. Baker has said the state has been aggressive in pursuing and acquiring personal protective equipment.

"COVID's been around here for quite awhile, it's gonna be around for quite awhile," Baker said.

Legislation was filed earlier this week that would make it a law to wear a mask or face fines of up to $100 for any offense after the first. The bill also proposes a fine of up to $1,000 for those who violate the mandatory self-quarantine after traveling to Massachusetts from COVID-19 hotspots.