Last week, an emergency proclamation was issued in Stillwater, Oklahoma, which required residents to wear face masks in restaurants and stores.
However, CNN reported that the proclamation was amended the following day after threats of violence.
Norman McNickle, the city manager, said that while face coverings were required for entry into businesses, employees have been threatened with physical violence and experienced verbal abuse while attempting to enforce the rule.
"In addition, there has been one threat of violence using a firearm. This has occurred in three short hours and in the face of clear medical evidence that face coverings help contain the spread of COVID-19," McNickle said.
Since there were threats of violence, the city decided to amend the order. The statement also urged citizens to wear face masks whenever possible.
Mayor Will Joyce alleviated the rule to encourage, not require face masks after employees were allegedly being threatened with violence while enforcing the law.
The city manager also explained the importance of face masks in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The masks have been recommended by the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Since April 3, the CDC has recommended that Americans wear "cloth coverings" out in public.
However, the CDC reported that masks are not a substitute for social distancing, which has been required to slow the spread of the deadly virus.
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