Some are critical of a new order set to take effect Monday in Harris County.
It mandates everyone out and about wear a mask or facial covering. Social distancing rules will still apply.County judge Lina Hidalgo says "We have to use every tool in the toolbox," she said. "If we get complacent, people die." She says "if we do this, we will get that curve down where it needs to be and we can start reopening things, and do it in a way that is sustainable." Joe Gamaldi, president of the Houston police officer's union says the order is outlandish and draconian. "It's completely ridiculous and it's what happens when you have an inexperience county judge who has no clue in what she's doing and doesn't ask subject matter experts, is this a good idea?"Houston mayor Sylvester Turner says "it's not intended to be punitive. It's not intended to be overbearing."
Violators can be fined up to $1000 and get jail time. And Gamaldi says that puts an incredible amount of pressure on officers.
"It puts us in a horrible position. Everyone is encouraging us to bridge the gap with the community and build trust. And that's exactly what we're doing, but this new order from Judge Hidalgo completely tears that bridge down."He doesn't see his officers handing out tickets. "What I really think our officers are going to be doing is wave out the window real quick and say don't forget to wear a mask. Because we're too busy going to the violent crime that is already up in our community."Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called the order :the ultimate government overreach."
The measure will last a month. Children under ten are exempt.