Holcomb Signs COVID-19 Executive Orders

(AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Governor Eric Holcomb has signed two executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to extending the public health emergency for another month, the governor has signed an order making adjustments to several restrictions, including the mask mandate at state facilities.

The governor says beginning June 1, the mask mandate will be removed at state facilities, except for state prisons, state hospitals, Indiana Veterans Home and the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. Masks will also still be required at COVID testing and vaccination sites.

Indiana schools will continue to be required to have face coverings indoors through June 30, though masks will not be required outdoors on school grounds. Beginning July 1, school boards will be allowed to determine the measures or restrictions for their local schools.

The executive order directs Hoosiers to follow CDC guidance for fully vaccinated and unvaccinated people regarding mask wearing and other protective measures. It also waives any penalties or interest payments accrued on state income taxes on unemployment wages that must be paid due to HEA 1436.

Holcomb’s office says extending the public health order allows certain individuals who otherwise would not be eligible to administer COVID-19 vaccinations and allows the state to continue to receive emergency funds for programs such as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

You can view the executive orders by clicking here.