×

While we should all wear masks, it should remain our own choice

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine was right to relax language on whether Ohioans will be required to wear masks when they are customers walking into businesses. Though his initial order said face coverings would be mandatory for employees and customers as we reopen our economy, DeWine quickly realized the order may have crossed a line.

“I heard from a lot of different people who felt that, ‘I may wear a mask, or I may not wear a mask, but the government should not be telling me what to do,'” DeWine said in adjusting the guidance for customers to a recommendation, rather than an order.

On Wednesday, DeWine appeared to have stepped back from changing the order for employees, however.

If it’s all a bit confusing, the bottom line remains the same. DeWine and Health Director Dr. Amy Acton believe strongly enough in the need for Ohioans to wear masks while doing business that they would LIKE to be able to order everyone to do it … but on second thought they understand the best they can do is ask customers to do so.

The plan now reads “Require face coverings for employees and recommend them for clients/customers at all times.”

Making the right choices for the public health ultimately is our responsibility. Good for DeWine for understanding that, even if it is tempting to doubt the level of common sense among the general public at times.

Now, again, getting this right is up to us.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.15/week.

Subscribe Today