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Questions remain on how Omaha's mask mandate will be enforced

Posted at 10:17 PM, Aug 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-12 23:17:35-04

OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) - The city of Omaha now joins the rest of the nation's top 100 cities by issuing a mask ordinance but there are still some questions on how it will be enforced.

3 News Now reached out for an interview with the Omaha Police Department and they said they still need "further clarification" on the ordinance and what exactly enforcing this looks like for them.

3 News Now did talk to plenty of business owners in the downtown area and many of them already were requiring face coverings to begin with.

The Bike Union and Coffee Shop near 19th and Dodge has adapted their complete model with how they interact with customers. They've taken their shop outside to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and still serve some coffee. They also have a plan in case someone does not comply with their rules.

“We will pretty much keep trying to deny them entry and if things will escalate, we will pretty much call authorities and have them come over and deal with the situation in a proper manner,” said shift supervisor Erick Alvarez.

As for OPD, 3 News Now hopes to hear back from them on exactly how they plan to enforce Omaha's mask ordinance.