Health masks: right to wear.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Vetoed
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill establishes a right for individuals in California to wear health masks, such as surgical masks or N95 respirators, in public places to protect their own health or the public’s health due to communicable diseases, air quality concerns, or other health factors. The bill defines ‘health mask’ and ‘public place’ and outlines exceptions to this right, including requirements for identification, essential workplace functions, and emergency health care. It also ensures nondiscrimination protections for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘health mask’ as a medical-grade surgical mask or N95/KN95 respirator.
- Defines ‘public place’ including businesses, public accommodations, government buildings, outdoor spaces, and modes of public transportation.
- Grants individuals the right to wear health masks in public places for health protection.
- Excludes limitations on mask-wearing for security identification, essential workplace functions, and emergency health care.
- Specifies that mask removal is limited to temporary identification purposes.
- Protects nondiscrimination rights for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions.
- References existing sections of the Labor Code and Occupational Safety and Health Act.
- Addresses potential conflicts with Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation safety procedures.
Who is affected
- Individuals
Bill text
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