Rep. Skindell introduces resolution to require wearing of masks during House committees and session

COLUMBUS – State Representative Michael J. Skindell (D-Lakewood) today introduced a resolution to amend the Ohio House Rules to require all persons over the age of two, including any member, to cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth face covering while attending a meeting of the House or meeting of any standing committee, subcommittee or select committee of the House.  Exceptions would be made for a person unable to wear a mask or face covering due to a medical condition or the person is otherwise exempted by the Ohio Department of Health guidance. 

The requirement to cover a person’s mouth and nose with a mask or cloth covering would be effective during any pending state of emergency for the State of Ohio declared by the governor due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend covering your mouth and nose with a mask or cloth cover to lessen the spread of COVID-19.  This recommendation exists even if you are keeping a distance of a minimum of six feet between yourself and others. 

“Masks or cloth facial coverings are recommended by the CDC and other medical professionals and groups to lessen the spread of COVID-19 to others,” Skindell said. “By wearing a mask, you are demonstrating your deep concern for the health and safety of people around you.”

Despite the CDC recommendations, Skindell stated that a number of people did not wear masks in House Committee rooms during meetings this past week, putting others at risk of contracting this highly infectious virus.  He went on to say that during the House Finance committee held on May 5, 11 members and the Speaker of the House failed to wear a mask.  All Democrats wore masks. 

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