Face Covering Ordinance Set to Expire

The emergency ordinance requiring face coverings in public places within Midwest City limits will expire at 12:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Developed in conjunction with the OKC-County Health Department (OCCHD) and approved by the City Council on March 20, 2020, the original ordinance was updated in September 2020 to include expiration parameters. These parameters define that expiration occurs if less than 5 percent of the tests in Oklahoma County are positive for more than two consecutive weeks.

Though this expiration means that face coverings are no longer required by ordinance in public places, it does not take away the rights of private businesses and facilities throughout the community to require masks. Residents and visitors are asked to stay cognizant of this issue and to respect the requirements of these businesses and facilities. Based on the circumstances, those refusing to wear a mask in such businesses or facilities could face prosecution for criminal trespass, disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct or similar offenses. 

“The expiration of this emergency ordinance doesn’t mean that we are no longer concerned about the health and safety of our community. We are following the recommendations of our community health partners, as we understood them, when this language was approved,” stated City Manager Tim Lyon. “As I’ve discussed with the Councilmembers, we will continue to closely monitor the spread of the virus and will keep them updated if we feel additional action needs to be taken. In the meantime, we’re encouraged by our residents as they continue to seek out vaccination opportunities and follow guidelines to maintain their health.”

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March 30, 2021