Dataset: local government mask orders preceding statewide orders by US states.

Philip Jacobs,Arvi Ohinmaa

doi:10.12688/f1000research.27614.1

Abstract

We present a database listing local government mask orders for COVID-19 that were enacted between April and September, 2020, prior to the date that the governors issued statewide mask wearing mandates. We obtained data from a Google search of web pages of local and national commercial and public broadcasters and newspapers, and of the orders themselves. In the database, we present data identifying the county, municipality or tribal council, date of the order, and the source's internet address. In the 34 states with statewide orders, local governments in 21 of these states issued mandates in 218 municipalities, 155 counties, and 1 tribal council. The dataset can be accessed from https://doi.org/10.7939/DVN/NDFEHK.

Highlights

During the Spring of 2020, the use of face masks in public places emerged as an important determinant of the prevention of COVID-19
We developed a dataset of mask orders by local government units in the states which eventually enacted statewide orders, and the dates which these orders came into effect
We recorded the date on which each order came into effect, and the internet address of the mask order or news source reporting on a mask order

Summary

Introduction

During the Spring of 2020, the use of face masks in public places emerged as an important determinant of the prevention of COVID-19. By August, 2020 public health officers in 34 US states had issued statewide orders for occupants to wear masks in public places. By August, 2020 public health officers in 34 US states had issued statewide orders for occupants to wear masks in public places1 In many of these states, local governments issued their own mask orders prior to the statewide orders. When we are considering the impact of mask wearing orders, we need to know the full extent to which local governments required occupants to wear masks in public. We developed a dataset of mask orders by local government units (counties and cities) in the states which eventually enacted statewide orders, and the dates which these orders came into effect

Methods

Date the local order came into effect

Jacobs P