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Iowa Board of Health votes 7-2 in favor of statewide mask mandate

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November 12th, 2020 by Ric Hanson

(Radio Iowa) – The Iowa State Board of Health has voted to recommend that Governor Kim Reynolds issue a statewide mask mandate. The vote was seven-to-two among the board members — all of whom were appointed by Reynolds. Reynolds has repeatedly said mask mandates are unenforceble, although she did issue an order Tuesday requiring masks at hair salons, barber shops and in certain group settings.

Board member Jay Hansen, a Democrat from Mason City, says with Covid cases spiking, a statewide requirement might persuade people who have resisted wearing mask.

Board member Patti Brown, a Republican from Waukee, voted against the recommendation.

On Wednesday, the Centers for Disease Control issued a memo saying face coverings DO protect the person wearing one as well as others around them.

(Reporting by Iowa Public Radio’s Natalie Krebs)