To prevent further spread of COVID-19 and protect public health, Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins has extended his emergency declaration and is now requiring that everyone wear face-coverings in businesses, according to a press release from Perkins’ office.
This applies to commercial buildings, public buildings, places of worship, and outdoor public spaces where individuals cannot or it is impractical to maintain six (6) feet of physical distance.
Several key metrics indicate significant viral spread in the community, the release read.
“COVID-19 hospitalizations in Shreveport/Bossier are currently at the highest level since the pandemic began. Caddo Parish has also reported 11 deaths in the past seven days. Finally, the 7-day positive test rate average— which differentiates spread from spikes due to increased testing—has nearly doubled since June 1, going from 3.8 percent to 6.45 percent. These alarming trends require action. “
“This isn’t about politics. More than 240 people have died from COVID-19 in Caddo Parish since late March, which is more than two people per day. This pandemic is the biggest threat to public safety in our lifetimes,” said Mayor Adrian Perkins. “COVID-19 has also decimated our economy. We cannot afford to lose anyone else nor can we afford another shutdown. Mandating mask usage in public is a sensible and effective measure that will save lives and help keep our businesses open.”
The provisions of the declaration are effective at 5:00 PM on July 8, 2020 and expire at 11:59 PM on August 8, 2020. It requires citizens over the age of two to wear a face-covering when entering any place of business, and businesses to post signage that clearly communicates requirements at or near all entry points. SporTran will also require all public transit passengers to wear a face- covering.
There are exemptions for persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents them from wearing a personal protective mask or face covering. Citizens are expected to wear masks when entering and exiting a restaurant, but can remove the mask while seated and dining.
Similarly, gym patrons must wear a mask when entering and exiting, but can remove it during workouts. The order does apply to congregants at places of worship but individuals addressing the group and choir members can remove the mask to perform their duties. In all instances where the mask is removed—be it in a church, restaurant, or gym—social distancing must be practiced.
Enforcement of this order will be handled by the Shreveport Police Department. Enforcement measures may include, but are not limited to, revocation of a business’ ability to remain open under Phase Two guidelines and cessation of water service to the business.
Businesses holding Alcoholic Beverage Outlet permits from the City are also advised that the right to maintain such permits is contingent on the business following all applicable laws, including those contained in these guidelines or any subsequently issued by the City. Instances of non-compliance are to be reported to SPD’s non-emergency number at (318) 673-7300 or Crimestoppers at (318) 673-7373.
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