Milwaukee Acting Mayor Johnson signs citywide mask mandate effective through March 1

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Acting Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson on Thursday, Jan. 20, signed the city's mask ordinance into effect. 

The mandate will go into effect in the coming days and go through March 1. 

Mayor Johnson released the following statement: 

“I signed Milwaukee’s mask ordinance this morning which will take effect once it is published in the coming days. Public safety is my paramount concern, and, during the current surge in COVID-19 cases, masking is one reasonable mitigation step.

“I have repeatedly pointed out Milwaukee’s path out of the current pandemic relies on vaccination. Too many people in our city are not vaccinated, and that needs to change.

“Milwaukee’s new mask ordinance requires everyone ages three and older to wear a mask in indoor public spaces. Exceptions to the ordinance include allowing patrons to go without a mask while eating or drinking. Enforcement will be limited with a focus on education. The ordinance remains in effect until March 1, 2022, though, if the situation warrants, the Common Council could end the mask requirement sooner.

“Businesses in Milwaukee have endured significant consequences from the pandemic, and I appreciate all the efforts they have made to reduce the spread of the disease.

“COVID-19 in Milwaukee continues to be measured in the extreme transmission category. Hospitalizations and deaths are near 12-month highs. Everyone should make masking and distancing part of their routines. And, please, get vaccinated and boosted for your sake, your family’s sake, and for the entire city.”