SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Gov. Spencer Cox received some advice for Utahns, as mask requirements are raised statewide: “You don’t have to be an idiot.”
The governor, in statements to his weekly COVID-19 update, urged Utahns to be respectful of workers and employees who follow private company guidelines for wearing masks, even after the government no longer requires them. .
The Cox office announced Tuesday that it would increase the eligibility date for the vaccine for all adults to April 1st. The decision was made in light of recent legislation that will lift mask restrictions on April 10th.
Masks will still be needed in schools and at large gatherings of 50 people or more.
Despite the completion of the required facial coverings in public spaces, Cox strongly advised Utahns to be vigilant.
“If we don’t be careful and see a plateau this week, the virus can spread quickly again,” he said. “We certainly don’t want another climb, so keep taking the necessary precautions.”
He added that some companies and individuals will continue to choose to wear masks, and this should not justify rude behavior.
“If you’re in a business and you’re required to wear masks, wear them,” he said. “Don’t call the secretary. Do not call the store manager. Don’t make fun of yourself because you don’t want to wear a mask ”.
The governor said companies “have an absolute right to demand masks.”
“If you don’t like it, go buy somewhere else,” he said. “You don’t need to be a fool for the people you contact.”
“We live in a society and we should care about other people,” he added. “If you don’t care about other people, don’t go to places where there are other people.”
Cox also advised against verbally attacking those who choose not to wear masks after the term has been lifted.
“Please be kind to each other, please be patient with each other,” he said. “We show people what an amazing place it is to live in Utah.”