Is Mask Wearing Connected To U.S. Economic Health?

In a new ad campaign, the National Association of Manufacturers argues the nation’s economic recovery is connected to Americans’ willingness to wear face coverings in public spaces. The ad, available here, notes that several studies have connected the use of masks to a decline in COVID-19 transmission.

As a result, the NAM, along with the Business Roundtable and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, also have sent a letter last week to the White House Coronavirus Task Force and the National Governors Association urging that they work together to:

• Establish guidance on the appropriate metrics for imposing location-based mandatory mask requirements;
• Develop model mandatory mask policies that are simple and do not impose the enforcement burden on organizations; and
• Make clear that businesses and non-profits will not be held liable for refusing entry or services to an individual who is not complying with face covering requirements.

The letter, which is available here, said “a national mask standard, implemented locally, offers the surest way to protect public health and promote economic recovery.”

NAM provides information about state and local mask orders, and other COVID-19 related requirements, here. Stateside Associates also provides a list and explanation of all state and local COVID-19 requirements. Click here for that resource.