NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Commission also rescinded their mask order and went with the state mandate during their meeting on Tuesday.
Face masks will now be required throughout Harvey County beginning Wednesday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m. after the Commission unanimously voted to implement a county-wide order.
The Commission previously rescinded Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s Executive Order 20-52 at a special meeting July 2. The Commission agreed at that time to review the decision over the coming weeks.
The order requires individuals to wear a face mask over their nose and mouth in any indoor or outdoor public space where social distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained at all times.
The order allows for some exceptions, such as children 5 years old and younger, individuals that are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents them from wearing a face cover. There are no criminal or financial penalties included in the order.
The County remains in the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan. The plan does not limit mass gathering size. However, social distancing and hygiene protocols are encouraged.
Harvey County has had 95 COVID-19 cases to date, including 91 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County.