Rep. Miranda statement on state mask mandate for Hamilton County

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Jessica E. Miranda (D-Forest Park) issued a statement today following Gov. DeWine’s executive order to require facemasks in Hamilton County. Hamilton County is one of 12 counties, including Clermont, Fairfield, Lorain, Pickaway, Summit, Wood, Butler, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Montgomery and Trumbull, that are subject to the governor’s mask mandate. Each of the counties falls within Level 3 of the state’s new Public Health Advisory System, which was unveiled July 2. Level 3 indicates very high exposure and spread of coronavirus.

Several cities in Ohio have already moved to require facemasks, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton.

“It is unfortunate that it took a spike in cases to put science and real public health policy back at the forefront of Ohio’s COVID-19 response, but here we are. It is good to see face coverings, which are proven to help slow the spread of this virus, be mandated in these counties to keep our communities safe. This virus spreads aggressively and has no regard for the comfortability of wearing something to cover your face. We all need to buckle down, respect each other, and wear a mask or a face shield,” Rep. Miranda said.