Coronavirus: Laredo Citizens Must Cover Mouth and Nose in Public

LAREDO, TX – Laredo citizens are being mandated to cover their mouth and nose when they enter any building that is not their home.

According to the Laredo Morning Times, the order will come into effect on April 2 and continue through April 30.

The Laredo City Council had previously voted for a shelter in place and for a mandate that required anyone who went outside to cover their nose and mouths, but later deemed the rule was too broad.

Laredo is also extending the juvenile curfew to all Laredo residents. Only people who working or looking for essential services may leave their homes between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Those who refuse to comply may be fined anywhere between $50 and $1,000. Violators could also be arrested.

Governor Abbott’s order permits Texans to continue exercising and walking their pets. Laredo residents can be outside for these activities after 10:00 p.m., but they must not be congregating in a group.

Many are concerned that during times of economic uncertainty the fines may place an undue burden on citizens who cannot afford the price.

“I’d rather bury them in debt than bury them in a coffin,” stated Councilman George Altgelt.

According to Altgelt, Laredo must take stricter measures because Mexico isn’t taking the pandemic seriously.

The city council also voted to provide over $120,000 to local food banks, anticipating the city will be reimbursed by FEMA for a portion of that money.

City Manager Robert Eads explained that the reimbursement isn’t guaranteed and that the city’s budget was already strained.

Councilman Dr. Marte Martinez countered it’s “their responsibility to feed the community in times of crisis and to not let people starve.”