fbpx

Masks Still Required in South Florida: No more fines, but coronavirus mask mandates still exist

Masks Still Required in South Florida: No more fines, but coronavirus mask mandates still exist

Masks Still Required in South Florida: No more fines, but coronavirus mask mandates still exist

This may come as a surprise to some, but masks are still required in parts of South Florida.

 

Yes, Gov. DeSantis took away the penalty of getting fined for not wearing a mask when and where required to help curb the spread of coronavirus in areas like Miami and Fort Lauderdale — But, that doesn’t mean he took away the requirement. While individuals cannot be fined and hit with citations for not wearing masks, businesses in South Florida still can be.

 

People who refuse to wear a mask may no longer be fined, but they can’t put the masks away just yet. 

 

Due to all of the ever changing news on mask mandates, emergency orders and more, we’re here to help do our part in keeping you informed. 

Are Maskless People Breaking the Law in Florida?

People who refuse to wear masks in South Florida are still facing trespassing charges and are clashing with police. These consequences are happening despite DeSantis’ orders to not punish mask violators.

While dramatic maskless issues are overall rare, police in South Florida do say arrests are still a last resort, according to the Sun Sentinel. An arrest, however, means that someone could end up in criminal court in South Florida over not complying with face mask orders.

Broward Sheriff’s Office hasn’t yet had a severe issue with criminal mask violations, But Sgt. Prichard told Sun Sentinel that “Deputies will continue to educate, warn and as a last resort will take enforcement action.”

A West Palm Beach Attorney who represents anti-mask proponents explained that businesses can still enforce mask policies for public health reasons, so when people then don’t comply with the officer’s lawful commands once they’re asked to leave the property the person can be charged with a criminal trespass after warning charge in Florida.

Criminal Trespass after warning can lead to up to 1 year in Florida state jail if the person is convicted.

 

Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach Mask Rules:

Miami Beach Police Department gave out a total of nearly $14,500 in fines earlier this summer, according to NBC Miami. Miami-Dade county also gave out fines to more than 250 people.

 

While Miami-Dade county is getting more relaxed on COVID-19 restrictions, the mask mandate is not easing up. Miami-Dade County is going to continue to give out educational citations for not wearing masks, unless there is further ruling from DeSantis. 

 

“They [officers] are going to be approaching, making sure that everybody is wearing a mask out in public as directed by the emergency order and siding those in individuals that are in violation,” said Miami Police Assistant Chief Manny Morales according to NBC MiamiIf possible, Miami Police Assistant Chief Morales says fines may still be part of the violations.

Miami-Dade county cities are struggling to enforce mask mandates since Gov. DeSantis continues to not allow fines as consequence for those not abiding by the mask mandates, according to Local 10. Miami’s Mayor Suárez is trying to mitigate health concerns with the surge of cases

Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis still recently pushed South Florida into phase 3 of opening and he continues to prohibit local governments from collecting fines for people who violate the mask mandates. Miami Beach police are still handing out masks to anyone not wearing one and they are issuing citations for those violating the mask mandates. It may be possible that fines could still be collected or enforced later.

In Fort Lauderdale, “all facial covering requirements … remain in full force,” according to the Fort Lauderdale government website. All employees and patrons of businesses are required to wear facial coverings – including restaurants when a person is not actively eating or drinking.
Businesses in Fort Lauderdale found not complying with face mask regulations are “subject to enforcement as a civil violation, including the imposition of fines against the offending business or establishments.” Find the entire emergency declaration here.  

Recent addition:

In Palm Beach County, an appeals court ruling on Jan. 27 found that Palm Beach County cannot be blocked from enforcing its COVID-19 mask mandate, according to the Sun Sentinel.

Earlier in January, a Boynton Beach woman who was against mask mandates was arrested in West Boca after refusing to cover her face in a bagel shop. Cindy Falco-DiCorrado then refused to leave the store and was arrested on Florida trespassing charges.

In South Florida, Sun Sentinel reported: “Mask mandates have proven to be a wedge … with many seeing them as an extension of political differences between mask supporting liberals on one side and conservatives who press their personal freedoms on the other.”

The appeals court, however, ruled that Palm beach CAN enforce their mask mandate as the county’s mandate “has a clear rational basis based on the protection of public health.”

Another 1,868 cases were reported in Florida Monday, Oct. 5. The day before, 1,844 cases and Oct. 1 had more than 2,600 new cases reported. 

 

As of Oct. 5, there have been 716,000 Covid-19 cases in Florida. Nearly 15,000 people in Florida have died from Covid-19.

 

In South Florida, these are the local numbers (As of Oct. 5) : 

Are South Florida Mask Mandates Unconstitutional?

Practically everyone has an opinion on whether or not we should be required to wear masks in light of COVID-19 and the Coronavirus Pandemic. But the law on whether or not mask mandates are unconstitutional is pretty clear: Mask requirements are NOT unconstitutional.

 

Check out a recent blog HERE to learn more about why mask mandates do not violate your first amendment rights. 

 

Struggling with unemployment during the Coronavirus Pandemic? 

We may be able to help. 

 

If you have a criminal record, contact our office to find out if we can help you get your criminal record sealed or expunged. With high unemployment rates, having a clear record is more important right now than it was even one year ago. 

 

Are you or a loved one in Jail or Prison?

If you or a loved one are in jail or prison, reach out to find out if we can help you or your loved one get a  “compassionate release” to get out of prison or jail early due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

 

Thousands of low-risk federal inmates have been released from jails and prisons across numerous states and counties as the coronavirus continues to run rampant. Inmates particularly at risk of catching the coronavirus – such as the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are more likely to be released 

 

RELATED → Intentional Spread of Coronavirus Could land you in Jail or in a Lawsuit 

 

RELATED → Can you be arrested for breaking Coronavirus Quarantine rules in Florida? 

RELATED → Florida Man Coronavirus Crimes

Update: Broward voters will face the cops if they refuse to wear masks (or become unruly)

After a bit of back and forth – turns out people WILL need masks to vote in Broward County. People without masks will not be able to vote in Broward County, Florida; according to the Sun Sentinel.

Broward’s Election Chief said that police will be able to remove troublemakers from the polling sites if they’re causing an issue by not wearing a mask, or if they’re trying to intimidate other voters. If someone refuses to put a mask on to vote, BSO deputies already have pre-granted permission to remove that person from the polls.

Anyone who is “disruptive and unruly” can be removed from polling sites by Broward Sheriff’s Office.

Broward’s mask mandate remains in effect, requiring anyone in public to wear a mask to help curb the spread of coronavirus.

Find more voter information at your counties’ Supervisor of Elections website!
Palm Beach: https://bit.ly/3dRGodb  
Broward: https://bit.ly/2LfEqIz 
Miami-Dade: https://bit.ly/2Hj50PK 

Miami Police officer punished for Trump Mask at polling place

Turns out… The Florida Man can even mess up following the rules. Near an early voting polling location for the 2020 presidential election, a Miami, Florida police officer wore a mask supporting President Donald Trump. It’s unclear whether or not Officer Ubeda was on duty or not at the time, but he was in full uniform and was armed.

Thankfully, the Miami Police department has said: “This behavior is unacceptable, a violation of departmental policy and is being addressed immediately.”

Florida law says that state employees cannot use official authority to interfere in or influence elections.

Mask-refusing moms removed from school board meeting in Florida

Police had to remove several moms from a school board meeting in Daytona, Florida due to them refusing to wear masks, according to Miami CBS local.

Police didn’t officially arrest them – but 7 moms were trespassed so they can’t return to the property for one year.

“I’ve never put a mask on my face, and I never will,” one of the women – Rachel Cohen- said according to CBS. “It’s just absolute tyranny.”

We think her stance is, well, quite frankly – absolutely ridiculous. Wear a mask, folks – you could literally be saving lives.

Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
How We Win
Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
Google Reviews
kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
js_loader