Baton Rouge, La. — July 1, 2020 — Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome signed an executive order Wednesday to require all commercial and nonprofit entities in the East Baton Rouge Parish to provide goods or services directly to the public to implement a “No Mask, No Service” policy.

As of July 1, 2020, East Baton Rouge Parish has experienced 5,350 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and 271 confirmed deaths by the Louisiana Department of Health as a result of the disease.

“This is an effort to protect the health and well-being of residents and visitors — and to assist in the safe reopening of the parish economy without the need for the stricter economic mitigation efforts put in place earlier this year,” said Mayor Broome. “The “No Mask, No Service” policy will help ensure our businesses can remain open and safely serve customers. My message to our community is simple: save a life, save our economy, and wear a face covering.”

The executive order requires, at minimum, that all employees and visitors wear face coverings when in an area or while performing an activity that will involve close contact or proximity with the public. The “No Mask - No Service” Policy must be posted near all entrances and in clear view of any employees or members of the public entering the business.

During his press conference earlier today, Governor John Bel Edwards stated support for Broome’s mandate as well as others around the state.

“I want you to know that I appreciate the decision on her part, I also support similar mask mandates that have been put in place in Orleans Parish and in Jefferson Parish by LaToya Cantrell and Parish President Lee Shang,” said Governor John Bel Edwards.

The business community reached out to Mayor Broome for extra time to comply with the executive order, and to further support the effort. The executive order will be effective July 3, 2020, at 12 p.m. through August 3, 2020, and will be re-evaluated before August 3, 2020.

The Baton Rouge Fire Department and the Baton Rouge Police Department will be authorized to enforce the order.

Executive Order No Mask, No Service

FAQ:

Do I need to wear a face-covering outdoors?

• Face coverings are required inside all commercial and nonprofit entities in the City-Parish providing goods or services directly to the public. Face coverings should also be worn in outdoor group settings, where social distancing is not feasible.

Do I need to wear a face-covering in restaurants, coffee shops, dining areas, food courts, bars, and night clubs?

• Face coverings are not required while eating and drinking. They should be work when entering, exiting, or while in a common area in all establishments.

Do I need to wear a face-covering while at a gym or fitness center?

• Face coverings should be worn when entering and exiting the gym or fitness center, but they are not required while exercising.

Does this order apply to every municipality in East Baton Rouge Parish?

• No, this order does not apply to the cities of Zachary, Baker, and Central.