In recent days, there have been rumblings of a statewide mask requirement as coronavirus numbers continue to increase around the state.
Some speculate local officials may be reluctant or unwilling to enact mask ordinances given the potential for political ramifications. Therefore, it could be the state government that would take on the burden of imposing the requirement.
During an interview with Huntsville radio WVNN’s “The Jeff Poor Show” on Thursday, State Senate President Pro-Tem Del Marsh (R-Anniston) seemed to dismiss that possibility. He said it would have been his preference Gov. Kay Ivey relaxed restrictions even more so than she had during her press conference earlier this week.
“I’ve been of the position, probably since day one, to let people make reasonable decisions based on the facts,” Marsh said. “I’m for getting people back to work. I’m for getting the state back to normal as quickly as possible. I’m glad that there weren’t any more restrictions put on, and if it had been my choice, I wish they would have been lifted. But it is what it is, and we’ll move forward.”
When asked about the possibility of a return of prior COVID-19 restrictions or a mask requirement, he responded that he did not see that happening.
“I don’t,” Marsh replied. “I think by and large the people of the state really do want to try to get back to work, you know, being responsible based on their situation. Some people are more high risk than others. We know who the vulnerable groups are, and we can protect those groups. But I think it is important for Alabama to get back to normal as quickly as possible, and I think we can do that.”
@Jeff_Poor is a graduate of Auburn University and the University of South Alabama, the editor of Breitbart TV, a columnist for Mobile’s Lagniappe Weekly and host of Huntsville’s “The Jeff Poor Show” from 2-5 p.m. on WVNN.
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