Starting Friday, Aug. 20, everyone age 2 and up must wear face masks in all indoor public spaces in Lincoln regardless of vaccination status.
The rule is in response to the recent increase in positive Covid-19 cases in Lincoln and throughout Middlesex County, including breakthrough cases among those who have been fully vaccinated. This also applies to private spaces that are open to the public. Venues under the mask mandate include:
- Food service establishments (except when seated)
- Houses of worship
- Fitness centers and health clubs (even when exercising strenuously)
- Personal-services businesses including hair salons
Staff must post this requirement on their establishment’s entry doors and are responsible for supervision and enforcement, except where a person can’t wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability.
The mandate will be in effect whenever Middlesex County’s Level of Community Transmission data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control is categorized as either “substantial” or “high” over a consecutive two-week period. Middlesex County’s risk is currently rated as “substantial,” but most counties in the U.S. are rated as “high” (only most of Nebraska is listed as “low).”
The Lincoln Public Schools will also require face masks indoors at all times when school resumes.