Salem Coronavirus: $300 Fines For People Not Wearing Masks

SALEM, MA — The city approved an order that would allow officials to fine people not wearing face coverings when they enter stores and other essential businesses.

According to the NBC Boston, which first reported this story, the Salem face mask order is not as comprehensive as orders passed in Cambridge and Somerville, where people can be fined for not wearing masks in outdoor public places. Most other Massachusetts communities have resorted to advisories urging people to wear masks when they leave the home to help slow the spread of the new coronavirus.

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The order says people in essential businesses and communal spaces within residential buildings "may receive a fine of up to $300" if they are not wearing face coverings.

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Dave Copeland writes for Patch and can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).