CINCINNATI — Face masks will be required in indoor public spaces, including retail businesses, in Cincinnati starting July 9.
The Cincinnati City Council voted Friday to require masks in all indoor public spaces including businesses, city facilities and public transit. The law will not apply to people who cannot wear masks for health reasons or children six or younger.
The city said those eating or drinking at a bar or restaurant will not have to wear masks, though anyone not actively eating or drinking must wear one. Masks will still not be required when outdoors, though they are recommended.
City council member Greg Landsman said people should call the health department for any complaints over non-compliant people or places. Cincinnati station WCPO said the health department will offer a mask to anyone not wearing one, however people will receive a $25 fine if they refuse.
"Cincinnati just took action to address the spike in COVID cases by requiring our residents and visitors to wear masks where most new cases are coming from: indoors, and in spaces that are open to the public," Landsmann said.
The ordinance adds Cincinnati to a growing list of cities in the country and near Kentuckiana that require masks. Indianapolis and Nashville have also passed ordinances requiring masks, though both Indianapolis and Nashville require masks in outdoor public spaces.
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