Not Wearing a Face Mask is a Crime

COVID - 19 has most certainly change the world, taken lives, damaged businesses and forever changed the landscape of the world.  Washington State has been very hard hit by this wretched virus and the State government has taken drastic action.  One of the more recent changes was making it a crime not to wear a face mask in certain situations.

Effective June 26, 2020 in Washington State it is unlawful not to wear a facial covering in public settings.  This law makes it mandatory to wear a face mask in a public and outdoor public area where six foot social distancing cannot be maintained.

There are exceptions, of course.  Such exceptions include those individuals who are "recreating" alone or with household members or eating at restaurants when there is proper social distancing.  Further, children under 2 and children between 3 and 5 do not need masks (although children aged 3-5 are strongly encouraged to wear masks).

A violation according to Governor Inslee is a misdemeanor punishable up to 90 days of jail and $1000 fine.  It will be interesting to see how local law enforcement in Whatcom County and Bellingham choose to enforce this law.  While officers give warnings first and cite with a criminal charge if the individual is a "repeat" offender or will law enforcement cite the person with a criminal charge and permit the local Whatcom County prosecutors deal with this aftermath.  Time will tell.

If you are charged with the misdemeanor of failing to wear a face mask please call our officer for a free consultation so that we can help protect you. Call the Whatcom County Criminal Defense team today at (360) 734-3847.