Judge Richard Cortez and Eddie Trevino both signed an emergency order requiring all businesses within Hidalgo and Cameron County to make the use of face masks mandatory for both customers and staff.
This goes into effect in a few hours in Hidalgo County. Cameron County’s order will go into effect Friday morning.
Both counties have seen a rapid increase in COVID-19 cases. Although Governor Greg Abbott has restricted local governments from requiring all residents to wear a mask, this does not apply to businesses.
The order will be in effect until further notice starting this week. Violators could face steep fines in both Hidalgo and Cameron county.
