Gov. Kemp Has Officially Extended Georgia's COVID-19 Restrictions & Banned Mask Mandates
The Governor of Georgia, Brian Kemp, signed an order yesterday, July 15, that bans both counties and cities from creating mandated orders requiring people to wear masks in public.
More than 10 local governments around Georgia have had mask mandates, including Atlanta, whose mandate was created after Mayor Keisha Bottoms tested positive for COVID-19, but they're no longer valid as of Kemp's signing of the order.
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Today I issued Executive Order 07.15.20.01, which extends the gatherings ban of more than 50 people, renews business restrictions, protects the medically fragile, and strongly encourages Georgians to wear masks in public.
Brian Kemp
The Governor tweeted that he also extended his executive order that was set to expire yesterday until at least July 31.
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The order extends the gathering ban for groups with a limit of 50 people and continues business restrictions, along with ordering those who are at a higher risk for severe illness to shelter in place and only leave their homes for essentials, necessary travel, and work-related matters.
The 41-page order goes more in-depth as to what guidelines businesses, schools, event venues, and establishments should follow in this extended period. While the order bans mask mandates, Kemp has strongly encouraged Georgia's citizens to mask up and has even gone on a tour of the state to spread the message.