New Lenox rescinds mask mandate to reflect the latest federal guidance

Baldermann asked residents to ‘respect those that wish to still mask up’

New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann announced Friday the village rescinded its mask ordinance to reflect updated guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In a Facebook post shared by the village, Baldermann said the village will not require proof of vaccination. Also, private businesses will still have the right to refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask if that is their policy.

Anyone who refuses to wear a mask or leave the establishment that requires a mask can be cited for trespassing, Baldermann wrote.

“Please continue to practice safety protocols and respect those that wish to still mask up,” Baldermann wrote. “There are people that suffer from pre-existing conditions or reside with someone that is vulnerable.”

The village implemented the ordinance late last year as new COVID-19 cases were on the rise and local officials said they could not enforce the state’s mask mandate. The ordinance allowed restaurant workers to make patrons wear masks when entering the building.

Last week, the CDC announced its updated guidance which said those who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 could mostly resume most activities without a mask for physical distancing. Public health officials cited mounting evidence which showed those who were fully vaccinated were well protected from becoming seriously ill or dying from COVID-19.

The Will County Health Department is still offering vaccinations at its multiple clinics. For more information on vaccinations, visit willcountyhealth.org.