Odessa Mayor Issues Covid Mask Mandate

ODESSA, TX -- In an effort to curb the surge in cases of coronavirus, Odessa Mayor David Turner has officially issued a mask mandate. 

The move comes after Trauma Service Area J had seven consecutive days of over 15 percent of hospitalizations belonging to patients infected with the coronavirus.

Previously, the Odessa City Council had voted down every single mask mandate brought to a vote.

According to the mandate, all retail and commercial businesses within the city limits will be required to enforce the mandate. The only expectations allowed will be those stated in Governor Abbott's executive order.

Businesses that blatantly disregard the mandate will receive a warning. The second offense will result in a fine of up to $250.

Mayor Turner is asking business owners to only call 9-1-1 if the interaction with a customer "gets out of hand."

In order for the mandate to be enforced off-duty police officers will be assigned to do inspections and respond to complaints.

The fire marshal's office will be in charge of enforcing the 50 percent mandate.