BELLINGHAM, Wash. – If you have heard or read that you need to have an exemption card in order to go out of your house without a face covering, the state coronavirus response team has news for you.
Friday’s daily briefing reiterated that face mask exemption cards are neither real, nor necessary.
The Secretary of Health says if you’re unable to wear a face covering, you don’t need a card and you don’t need to explain, advising you can ask businesses who don’t allow un-masked individuals for accommodations.
The Secretary advises persons wearing face coverings: if you’re the person wearing a mask, don’t question the person who is not; just stay 6 feet away.
Children under 5 are exempt from the rule, but health officials strongly recommend masks for kids 3 and older.
People with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering are also exempt.