Gov. Newsom Makes Face Masks Mandatory Amid Rising Coronavirus Cases

ace coverings are now mandated for residents while at work, on public transportation, in taxis and ride-sharing cars, and inside or in lines to enter all public spaces — including hospitals and pharmacies.

Some people are exempt from the new mask orders, including children aged 2 and under, those who are hard of hearing or need to communicate with those who are, as well as people who have medical, mental health or developmental disabilities that prevent them from wearing face coverings. Inmates are also exempt from the order.

Newsom said the statewide measure was a necessary step because "we have many municipalities that require mandatory mask wearing, and people are simply not applying it."