Virginia Gov. Makes Face Masks Mandatory in Public Places

If you are getting a hair cut, grocery shopping, or picking up a cup of coffee in Virginia, you must wear a face mask, NBC News reports.

Gov. Ralph Northam announced Tuesday that Virginians will be required to wear face masks inside public places as of Friday.

The new rule applies to any public place "where people can congregate in groups."

People will not be required to wear a mask if they are eating or exercising. If a person has a health condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, they will not be required to do so. Children under the age of 10 are also not required to cover their faces.

Northam's mandate comes after he was photographed not wearing a mask while visiting Virginia Beach over the weekend. The governor said he was there to speak to the mayor, thank first responders, and answer media questions at his coronavirus press conference. 

He said he was caught off guard when people asked to take photos with him.

"In the future, when I'm out in the public, I will be better prepared," Northam said. "We're all forming new habits and routines, and we're all adjusting to this new normal.”

• Virginia Gov. Northam Will Delay Reopening in DC Suburbs
• DOJ Backs Lockdown-Violating Pastor in Suit Against Virginia