Gov. Reeves releases new executive order pertaining to COVID-19
On Tuesday, Gov. Tate Reeves released a new executive order that lifts COVID-19 restrictions effective at 5 p.m. today, March 3, that will stay in effect until the end of the month, at least for the time being.
Gov. Reeves will reevaluate what numbers look like close to the end of the month, but he says he believes this will be his last order that revolves around the pandemic.
“Today, I signed what I expect will be one of my last executive orders regarding COVID-19,” Gov. Reeves said. “Our hospitalizations have plummeted, and our case numbers have fallen dramatically as well. In fact, our case numbers have fallen to the point where no county meets the original criteria for a mask mandate.”
The executive order lifts restrictions completely on outdoor concert and sporting venues and restaurants, and it loosens restrictions around indoor seating capacity to 50 percent. Wearing face masks over the mouth and noses is still highly encouraged as is following CDC guidelines about COVID.
However, the order includes a segment about local and county jurisdiction on restrictions.
It states, “Nothing in this Executive Order shall limit or alter the authority of any local or county authority from adopting orders, rules, regulations, and actions that are more strict than established herein, including capacity limitations and face covering requirements, provided that they do not impose restrictions that prevent any Essential Business Operations… from operating at such level necessary to provide essential services and functions during this COVID-19 State of Emergency.” So what does this mean for Starkville?
As of right now, the City of Starkville is still requiring masks to be worn unless you have any limitations on not wearing one. Private businesses can still enforce masks as well, and if you are on school property, you must wear a mask.
“I am replacing our current orders with recommendations. Everyone should continue to listen to Dr. Dobbs and other health advisors for the best possible wisdom regarding how you can personally stem any risk of catching COVID. Their insight is valuable. The only rules that will remain in this order are a capacity limit of 50% on indoor arenas, and those that govern K-12 schools.”
Mayor Lynn Spruill took to Twitter to answer many citizens’ questions about the mask mandate. It only applies to the inside of businesses and other buildings, so if you are outside, you do not have to wear one. Mayor Spruill also noted a possible deadline of when the mask mandate in the city limits could be lifted but ultimately the decision lies with the Board of Aldermen.
“The university semester ends in late April,” Mayor Spruill tweeted. “I believe that is the appropriate time to remove the restriction. I do not know if the board is in support of that idea.”