Monterey County face covering ordinance approval delayed to add additional language

The Monterey County Board of Supervisors delayed final approval of its countywide face covering ordinance until the week of September 27, 2021. During discussions at their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 21 the Board agreed to add language to the ordinance at the request of the Monterey County Hospitality Association. The board approved adding additional language to the list of exemptions which would apply to meetings and conferences. Face coverings would not need to be worn when: Attending meetings with vaccinated or unvaccinated attendees where all vaccinated persons show proof of vaccination status (2 shots of a 2 shot regime or 1 shot of a 1 shot regime) and all unvaccinated persons wear a face covering at all times other than when eating or drinking. The ordinance’s original language only allowed for an exemption where all persons present show proof of vaccination. This language can be added as it is not less stringent than current state requirements. Additionally, modifications were made regarding enforcement of the ordinance by businesses, that local businesses or entities with indoor facilities must enforce the requirement for their personnel but not customers and the public. The ordinance with additional language will come back to the Board of Supervisors next Tuesday, September 28.