9 businesses warned for violation of Milwaukee’s mask order
Nine businesses have received warnings for violations of Milwaukee’s mask order that is meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the city’s top health official said Tuesday.
Most of those warnings are related to complaints, said Health Commissioner Jeanette Kowalik.
The mask order went into effect on July 16.
When the Health Department receives a complaint, its staff follows up with education. If it receives multiple complaints, the department will issue a warning. The next step is a citation.
“We do have nine that are in the hopper right now, so hopefully they can get it together,” Kowalik said.
Under the ordinance, owners or operators of buildings that are open to the public must make sure that those inside wear masks. They can refuse entry or service to anyone who isn’t complying.
Repeat offenses can lead to a fine of between $50 and $500. If a business still doesn’t comply, the city could revoke the business’ license to operate.
The department will be ramping up enforcement for other businesses, she said, adding the department has been receiving additional complaints primarily about restaurants and bars.
She did not list the businesses that have been given warnings, and the department did not respond Tuesday to an emailed request for a list of those businesses.
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said the city has seen a positive impact of the mask ordinance since it went into effect.
“When you institute a mask ordinance, people will wear the masks and when people wear the masks you’re going to see less spread of COVID-19.”