Tulsa City Council To Vote On Mask Ordinance Wednesday Amidst Some Pushback

Tuesday, July 14th 2020, 8:51 pm

By: Erick Payne

TULSA, Okla. -

The Tulsa City Council will vote on Mayor GT Bynum’s proposed mask mandate tomorrow.

The proposal would require masks for anyone over the age of 18, with some exceptions. It would also include a misdemeanor and fine of $100 for a second violation.

Related Story: Mayor Bynum Releases Mask Ordinance Proposal

The draft ordinance said you would need to wear masks at businesses, or outdoors where you're not able to social distance.

Mask mandates are a controversial public health issue, with everyone having an opinion.

Tulsa's city council is expected to vote tomorrow on a mask mandate, which Mayor GT Bynum and public health officials hope will help stop the spread of COVID-19.

"The point of the mask is simply another tool to lower our rate as they continue to increase as we saw with the latest number today," Bynum said.

Some exceptions are if you have a medical condition or disability, if you're eating or drinking, exercising outside, driving alone or with family, swimming, voting, at church, giving a speech or working where a mask would be a hazard.

"There isn't a better option," Bynum said.

There is resistance against requiring everyone to wear masks.

Some with Tulsa Citizens Against Mask Mandates met in front of Tulsa City Hall today. They said a mandate wouldn't be legal, necessary, healthy or practical.

"If you're susceptible, isolate, wear a mask. But don't ask the rest of us to set ourselves on fire to keep you warm. That doesn't work, it's not the right prescription for this city, it's not the right prescription for this country," Physician Jim Meehan M.D. said.

Others said they're on board with a mask requirement.

"It's a simple task that really anyone could do, it doesn't require a lot and it could save a life," Fiona Henderson said.

If passed tomorrow, this ordinance would be in effect until the state's emergency declaration ends. The city council is meeting will be held virtually on Wednesday.