Kansas City officials mull mandatory mask policy as COVID-19 cases rise

Kansas City are considering requiring residents to wear face masks to stop the spread of the coronavirus, The Kansas City Star reports.

On Thursday, 227 new cases were reported, according to Kansas City Health Director Rex Archer. He says the mandate is necessary.

California, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Michigan and New York all have statewide mask orders.

In Missouri, Gov. Mike Parson decided to leave the mandate “up to the local levels.”

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said it is a proposal he is “absolutely considering.” According to Lucas, any change in policy will be discussed alongside any changes to or extension of the city’s current emergency order. The order is set to expire on July 5.