Gov. Henry McMaster’s executive order of May 11 has invalidated the emergency mask ordinance passed by the city of Greenville almost a year ago, according to a statement released by city Communications and Neighborhood Relations Director Beth Brotherton.
The city ordinance required masks inside retail establishments and personal services businesses.
McMaster said the state’s progress in administering vaccines combined with other circumstances surrounding the impact of COVID-19 led him to determine that any local mandates are neither necessary nor appropriate.
“South Carolinians can make responsible choices and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their communities,” McMaster’s order reads.
“The City will no longer require masks in outdoor event and venue settings, but encourages citizens to follow guidance from DHEC, including the recommendation to wear a mask when social distance can’t be maintained,” the city statement reads. “The City is actively working with neighborhood leaders, community partners and DHEC to host vaccination clinics.”
McMaster’s order also changed the way Greenville County Schools is addressing masks on-campus. The district, which at first questioned the order as contradictory, has since notified the community that students can opt-out of wearing masks while on campus.
