RALSTON, Neb. (KMTV) — On Monday, State Sen. Justin Wayne changed the dynamic of public health conversations when he said state statute gives cities the ability to "make regulations to prevent the introduction and spread of contagious, infectious, or malignant diseases," in regards to mask mandates.
Update: Ralston Board of Health passes mask mandate
On Thursday, Ralston held an emergency meeting to discuss its own mask mandate.
See also: Gretna, Ralston and other cities consider mask mandates
Using that statute, and active Directed Health Measures (DHMs) to support their decision, Ralston board of health officials will meet at 2 p.m. to discuss the passing of a mask mandate.
If approved, the order would take effect Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 8 a.m. and would remain in effect and "shall remain in full force and effect until superseded by a Directed Health Measure issued by the Nebraska Dept. of Health and Human Services or Douglas County Board of Health mandating community masking or until otherwise rescinded by the Ralston Board of Health or Ralston City Council."
People under five years of age would be exempt as well as others depending on a number of factors such as health and workplace concerns.
Beatrice and Kearney have already implemented their own mask orders.
Those found in violation of the order could face misdemeanor charges and fines of $25.
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You can read the proposed Ralston Board of Health order below:
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