MISSOULA — In Missoula, health officials say there have been some issues since the mask order took effect last week.
Earlier Tuesday, Incident Commander Cindy Farr said some people are not complying with the order, and some businesses have had trouble enforcing it.
Farr says businesses have the right to turn away customers who refuse to wear a mask, or make reasonable accommodations for people who medically cannot wear a mask.
Farr says she's not aware of any violent situations, but since the order was passed, she's received reports of people being confrontational, swearing at each other on social media, and shaming others. This past Saturday, #1 Gyro/The Greek Pastry Shop told MTN News some customers refused to wear a mask and threw expletives at employees after being asked to do so in the building on the first day of the mandate before ultimately leaving.
"We are a community that historically respects one another," Farr said. "This debate about cloth face coverings, as well as confrontation in public places, has really shown us a different side of Missoula."
Farr is asking people to be respectful, adding that unless you have a medical exemption from wearing a mask, you are required to do so in all indoor public places in Missoula County. To report a business that is not enforcing the rule, you can call 258-4755.
