After COVID scare, face mask now required at Law. Co. Justice Center

By: 
Steve Chapman

Start date was July 6, end date of face covering requirement unknown at this time for precautionary measure
Anyone who enters the Lawrence County Justice Center in Mt. Vernon is now required to wear a face mask upon entering the building. The rule took effect Monday, July 6.
According to a press release provided by Pamela Fobair, Lawrence County Circuit Clerk, the face mask rule was created after a situation arose where two people who had been in the Justice Center suspected they might have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.
“There has been no known presence of anyone in the Lawrence County Justice Center while infected with COVID-19,” the release stated. “The decision to require masks was made by the Lawrence County Court, due to the presence of a person in the Justice Center who had an immediate family member in their household who tested positive for COVID-19 shortly thereafter and another individual who developed symptoms similar to those of COVID-19 and was awaiting test results. Both of those individuals made court officials aware of their situations immediately upon learning of them and advised court officials they had commenced voluntary quarantine. Both individuals subsequently tested negative.”
According to the press release, the face mask rule was created to enhance precautions already being taken at the courthouse, such as arranging seating to create social distancing, prohibiting those who have symptoms of the virus from entering and regularly disinfecting the building to help protect those who enter the Justice Center from contracting the virus in the building.
“Many people who are present in the Justice Center are there because they are required by law to attend a court proceeding,” the release stated. “Many of these individuals are in the vulnerable category, as are many employees in the building. During this period when a potential heightened risk was identified in the Justice Center, the additional safeguard was implemented to further enhance protections for all who are required to be present in the building. Additionally, in order to maximize safety, the Supreme Court of Missouri currently requires that face masks be worn throughout the building when jury trials are in progress.”
The press release also stated face masks will be provided to those entering the Justice Center, while supplies last, but members of the public who already own face masks are encouraged to use those instead.
 “If you bring your own mask, that would be helpful,” the release stated.
At this point, it is not yet known how long the face mask rule will be in place.
According to the press release, everyone’s understanding of the new rule is very appreciated.
“Thank you, Lawrence County citizens for your cooperation as we (work) to help maintain your safety while you’re in the Justice Center,” it stated.
 
 

Category:

Lawrence County Record

312 S. Hickory St.
Mt. Vernon, MO, 65712
www.lawrencecountyrecord.com

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