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Cooper Revamps N.C. Mask Mandate, Maintains Occupancy Limits

PRE News & Ideas | By Jared Brumbaugh

Published November 23, 2020 at 6:08 PM EST

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has issued a new directive to boost mask wearing and tighten business restrictions amid rising coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. Occupancy and mass gathering limits remain unchanged in Monday's executive order. The state's top public health official, Dr. Mandy Cohen, warns that North Carolina is "on very shaky ground" heading into the Thanksgiving holiday. Cooper's executive order goes into effect Wednesday and expires Dec. 11. Businesses and individuals will be subject to fines for refusing to follow the statewide mask mandate, first issued in June. Customers must wear masks at all times in gyms and in restaurants unless they are actively eating or drinking.

Jared Brumbaugh

Jared Brumbaugh is the Assistant General Manager for Public Radio East. An Eastern North Carolina native, Jared began his professional public radio career at Public Radio East while he was a student at Craven Community College earning his degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. During his 15+ years at Public Radio East, he has served as an award-winning journalist, producer, and on-air host. When not at the station, Jared enjoys hiking long trails, tending his garden, stargazing on clear nights, and sharpening his culinary skills in the kitchen.

See stories by Jared Brumbaugh