Tulsa City Council Votes To Extend, Expand Mask Mandate

The Tulsa City Council approved changes to the city’s mask ordinance on Wednesday.

The vote was unanimous as the mandate will now apply to those age 10 and up and has been extended from the end of November to the end of January. The city council also modified the ordinance to exclude children involved in ‘strenuous athletics.’

The council has been getting consistent advice from medical professionals and a recommendation from the County Health Department that including children in the mask requirement would help avoid having children infect older, more vulnerable people.

"I am grateful for the City Council's decision today to lower the age on the City of Tulsa mask mandate," Tulsa Health Department Executive Director Dr. Bruce Dart said. :Our local health data indicate that the fastest rate of growth for COVID-19 cases is currently occurring among children in the 5-17 age group. Masks are a proven step to help slow the spread of COVID-19 when combined with everyday preventative actions and social distancing in public settings.”

The change requires Mayor G.T. Bynum's signature before going into effect. It will require masks for everyone now 10 years old and older when in public places and unable to maintain a safe physical distance.

“I am thankful for the City Council’s broad support in approving this important amendment to our mask ordinance,” Mayor G.T. Bynum said. “Our local health care leaders made clear how important it was for more children to be wearing masks, especially as they return to classrooms. This amendment is critical in a time when we need to continue to ensure the integrity of our local health care system.”

This is a developing story.