CADDO MASK ORDINANCE: CLARITY VERSUS CONFUSION

The Caddo Commission adopted on a 7-5 vote yesterday (July 9 ) a mask ordinance.

Here is a summary:

a. it does NOT apply to city of Shreveport, Greenwood, Blanchard, Vivian, Oil City, Rodessa, Ida, Gilliam, Belcher and Mooringsport.  These are incorporated areas.

b. the ordinance goes into effect today (July 10) at 5 p.m.

c. all persons in the unincorporated areas must wear a mask when obtaining goods or services from a business or establishment, with some limited exceptions including areas inside and outside with social distancing of 6 feet, etc.

d. the mask can be any covering that covers the nose and mouth 

e. businesses  must post a NO Mask, NO service sign and also advise entering patrons of the mask requirement

f. a person  who refuses to leave a business or establishment because of not wearing a mask can be charged with trespass

g. persons not enforcing the mask requirement or those not wearing a mask when required by the ordinance are in violation of the ordinance

h. the fine for a first offense is $250 and up to $500 for subsequent offenses.

I. persons actually working in the business or establishment who have the  authority to enforce the ordinance may be fined for non -compliance with the ordinance

j. businesses may also be subject to suspension or revocation of any occupancy permits or business licenses for repeated violation

k.  the Caddo Sheriff or any other  person authorize by law may enforce the ordinance

l. the parish administrator MAY hire private security contractors to assist in enforcement

m. the ordinance expires automatically after 30 days unless extended for a maximum duration of 30 days by a 2/3 vote of the commission.