The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce announced Monday it has received a new batch of free masks available to its members.
Chamber members can call 760-325-1577 to receive a complimentary 50-pack of disposable masks to be given away to employees or customers. The masks were donated by Riverside County, according to the chamber.
Wearing face coverings is mandated in Palm Springs in a variety of situations amid the coronavirus pandemic, and local business owners are required to post signage alerting patrons to wear masks and maintain social distancing to stay in compliance with city mandates designed to prevent the spread of the virus.
Businesses and nonprofit organizations that do not post signs at their entrances, exits and inside every room at lodging facilities could face fines or other penalties, according to the amended city order announced last month.
Last week, city officials announced additional mask-related requirements, that included directing visitors and residents alike to cover their faces outdoors near businesses, while working out in gyms and while picking up food to go.
City Manager David Ready said previously that violators may be fined anywhere from $250 to $5,000 depending on the severity of the situation.
Gov. Gavin Newsom last month ordered all California residents to wear face coverings to help slow the spread of the virus. The statewide mandate requires residents to wear masks in "high-risk situations,'' which cover virtually all scenarios outside the home.
Local
Get Los Angeles's latest local news on crime, entertainment, weather, schools, COVID, cost of living and more. Here's your go-to source for today's LA news.
Riverside County health officials have urged residents to abide by the mandate, despite rescinding a similar countywide order in May.
When in Palm Springs, non-family members must stay six feet apart and cover their faces when near others in public, whether they are shopping or using other professional services. Business owners must ensure workers, contractors, owners and volunteers cover their faces, and must bar people from entering their businesses if they fail to comply.
Coverings are not required to be worn by those in the midst of outdoor activities such as walking, playing golf or tennis, although social distancing remains required for those activities within city limits.
