Breaking News: Washington County Council of Commissioners Adopts Rules to Enforce Mask Mandate



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Posted on August 25, 2021

County Commissioners Council approves local statewide application of mask mandate

On August 24, 2021, the Washington County Council of Commissioners, acting as the local public health authority for Washington County, unanimously agreed to pass a new rule allowing health and service personnel county social to apply Oregon Statewide Mask Mandates.

The Council approved the rule as set out in the revised Oregon Statutes which authorize statewide public health law enforcement and adoption of civil sanctions for violating the rules adopted by the local public health authority.

The new rule allows the Washington County Public Health Division of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to enforce all public health laws and rules as civil offenses in the manner described in Washington County Charter and Code. Violations will be considered a Class C civil offense, with a maximum fine of $ 500 per day for businesses.

  • After the first complaint, a business will receive a phone call and email explaining the mask guide
  • After the second complaint, the company receives a letter and an e-mail.
  • If the county receives a third complaint, county staff will visit the company to verify the complaint. If the company is found to be violating the warrant, the county will forward the complaints and documentation to Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OR-OHSA).
  • If the county receives a fourth complaint, health and social services staff will issue a citation and issue fines.

Complaints can be registered by e-mail at the address [email protected] or by calling 503-846-8390.

The Council’s action responds to a alarming increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Washington County, mostly linked to the highly contagious Delta variant and those not yet vaccinated against the disease.

As Chairman of the Board, Kathryn Harrington, said, “The evidence is clear and compelling. Our community is in dire straits and the board has taken decisive action to ensure all residents of Washington County are protected from exposure to COVID-19 in public places. The good news is that we have two powerful tools to fight against the wave of Delta variants. Wearing a mask and getting vaccinations are absolutely the best ways to protect each other, especially our children and those with underlying health conditions that prevent them from getting the vaccine. We all need to act urgently to save lives and end unnecessary suffering. “

For more information on COVID-19, including the current statewide mask requirement and effective disease prevention strategies, including where to get vaccinated in your area, please visit www.co.washington.or.us/HHS/CommunicableDiseases/COVID-19/index.cfm.

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Source: https://www.co.washington.or.us/BOC/board-adopts-rule-to-enforce-mask-mandate.cfm

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