During her Wednesday morning News Conference – Alabama Governor Kay Ivey extended the state’s coronavirus mask order requirement into the new year.

The current “Safer at Home” order has been extended until January 22 at 5:00pm; the order requires that masks be worn in public places where people are interacting within six feet of anyone from another household.  Masks are also required in schools for grades two and above and in colleges.

Ivey said the climbing COVID numbers are straining Alabama’s hospital system, but despite the growing numbers, she has no plans to lockdown the state. 

All other elements of the order – including operational guidelines for gyms, athletic events, child care, salons, retailers and restaurants remain the same. 

Governor Ivey went on to say “We know masks work.  Social distancing works.  Personal hygiene works.  So we know what is working.”

(AL.COM/www.al.com)