Around New England

Monkey See, Monkey Do — Mask Mandate Coming In Rhode Island

May 6, 2020

In Rhode Island, wearing masks in public will no longer be optional starting Friday, May 8 – two days after Massachusetts began living under a similar order Wednesday, May 6.

The vast majority of people, whether they are indoors or outside, are supposed to wear a mask if they are in a public place, as The Associated Press reports.

Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, a Democrat, announced this order at a press conference on Tuesday, May 5. There are exceptions to the rule for small children, developmentally disabled people, and others with certain medical conditions.

When people are going for a bike ride, walk, or run, Raimondo said that they should at least carry a mask with them, in case they come into contact with other people.

The potential fine for violating this order has not been announced yet.

In Massachusetts, the order to wear a mask officially kicked in on Wednesday, May 6. The possible fine for those who violate the order is $300.