Landover, Maryland (April 11, 2020) – Prince George’s County is joining the District and Montgomery County in requiring its residents to wear some kind of face coverings while out shopping and boarding county buses.

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced today that she will sign an Executive Order requiring all patrons shopping in County grocery stores, pharmacies and large chain retail establishments to wear masks or face coverings to enter. The order also requires individuals who ride “TheBus”, Prince George’s County’s bus transit system, to also wear masks or face coverings onboard.

“The safety and well-being of all Prince Georgians during this pandemic is my top priority,” said Alsobrooks. “For the protection of employees who work in these establishments, as well as the customers who need these essential services, it is critical that each person does their part to cover their faces and minimize their exposure to others.”

This Executive Order takes effect Wednesday, April 15, 2020. The order will also require that grocery stores, pharmacies and large retailers promote social distancing inside and outside of the stores while customers wait.

“These steps will be critical to help us flatten the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Prince George’s County Health Officer Earnest Carter. “We know there are people with the virus who are walking around and showing no symptoms, and these actions will prevent them from spreading it to others. Consider it an act of love.”

County Executive Alsobrooks also reminded Prince Georgians about the Governor’s stay-at-home order this Easter weekend, asking residents to resist the urge to visit family members for large gatherings, and instead, host virtual celebrations with family and friends.