An executive order by new President Joe Biden will add federal facilities to the list of places where face masks are required in Wyoming.
Biden shortly after his inauguration signed an executive order requiring the use of face masks in federal buildings and on federal land. The move is seen as a way to slow the spread of coronavirus and encourage local officials to adopt similar rules.
Wyoming has had an order in place since early December requiring the use of face masks in public settings, including in private businesses and in government buildings.
Masks also required for those waiting for or riding in public transit or taxis.
However, just as the federal government cannot dictate such measures to state and local governments, Wyoming cannot require the use of face masks inside federal buildings and facilities, so federal buildings are exempt from Wyoming’s order.
Michael Pearlman, spokesman for Gov. Mark Gordon, said Thursday officials are working to determine the impact of the federal order.
Gordon on Thursday announced the state’s face mask mandate will be in effect until at least Feb. 14.
