State courts to lift mask requirements March 7

(ABC 6 News) – The Minnesota Judicial Branch announced it is lifting the statewide order requiring face coverings in court facilities, effective Monday, March 7.

“In light of declining COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in our state, and consistent with updated mask-related guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we are lifting the statewide requirement for face coverings in Judicial Branch facilities,” said Chief Justice Lorie S. Gildea.

Under current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing a mask indoors in public is a recommended prevention step only for counties at a “high” COVID-19 Community Level.

The Chief Judge in each Judicial District is authorized to require face coverings in court facilities in the districts or counties that are designated as a “high” COVID-19 Community Level by the CDC. Individuals who prefer to wear a face-covering may continue to do so. Face coverings will be provided by court staff upon request.

The order continues to require that state district courts, appellate courts, and other Judicial Branch facilities meet conditions established by the Judicial Branch COVID-19 Preparedness Plan to manage in-person activities in a manner that prioritizes health and safety. For more information, see the Judicial Branch COVID-19 webpage.