Lyon County has not announced an official policy for mask use in public places after Governor Laura Kelly said all residents will wear masks in public effective Friday, but Lyon County Attorney Marc Goodman has offered his perspective on the current mask situation from an enforcement viewpoint.
Goodman says any violations of orders on the wearing of masks or facial coverings, whether issued by the governor or the county, is not a criminal offense. He tells KVOE News the compromise reached by lawmakers and the governor during the special session last month eliminated all criminal penalties in cases like this.
Goodman also says the public should not call 911 or local authorities — namely Emporia Police or the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office — to complain about people not wearing masks. People with concerns need to call Lyon County Public Health at 620-208-3741.
