Alabama Not Yet Joining Red States on Tossing Mask Mandate

Despite declining infections and hospitalizations, Alabama is passing on joining red states in dropping face mask mandates, keeping them for "another 5 weeks," according to Republican Gov. Kay Ivey.

She tweeted in a series of eight tweets: 

"As of Tues., AL has seen the lowest avg for daily new #COVID19 cases & hospitalizations since June. Y'all, this is definitely an indication we're moving in the right direction. I want to thank Alabamians for their tremendous help & support to get us where we are. #alpolitics 1/8

"Even with this positive news, Dr. Harris & I believe more Alabamians need to get their 1st shot before we take a step some other states have taken to remove the mask order altogether & lift all restrictions. Folks, we're not there yet, but we're getting close. #alpolitics 2/8 

"Our new, modified order will include several changes that'll ease up on some of our current restrictions, while keeping our mask order in place for another 5 weeks, until April 9. After April 9th, I will NOT keep the mask order in effect. #alpolitics 3/8

"If businesses believe wearing masks are important to keeping their doors open & their employees and customers safe – and many do – then they'll have five weeks from today to get ready to impose their own policies. #alpolitics 4/8

"The bottom line is we have kept the mask mandate in place for more than a generous period of time because it has helped. And as a result of the people of our state doing their part, we have seen dramatic results & real progress being made. #alpolitics 5/8

"Additionally, the new Safer at Home Order makes changes to areas concerning senior citizens, summer camps, restaurants as well as hospitals & nursing homes. View the graphic below. 6/8"

"I'm proud to announce that by this weekend, it's a good bet that over 1 million vaccines will have been administered in AL. That's a significant milestone when you consider the first vaccine arrived in our state less than 3 short months ago. #alpolitics 7/8"

"I must once again thank the people of Alabama. Because of your personal responsibility & strong adherence to safety protocols, we're finally rounding the corner. Please continue to practice patience & look out for your friends & neighbors. #alpolitics #TogetherAL 8/8"

President Joe Biden has rebuked red states for "Neanderthal thinking" on dropping mask mandates while the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing. 

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