For Mineral County residents the next time they travel to Missoula for grocery shopping or a doctor’s appointment make sure to bring along a mask.

Thursday, July 9, at their monthly meeting the seven-member board of the Missoula County Board of Health unanimously voted in favor of a mandatory masking order.

This includes all licensed businesses by the city and any establishment that is inspected by the City County Health Department.

The new mandate took effect immediately and entails individuals 12 and older to wear face coverings constructed of cloth, paper or disposable materials, that cover the mouth and nose.

Masks are to be worn while occupying indoor spaces that are open to the public. Exceptions to the rule are instances when individuals are able to properly social distance, when participating in strenuous physical activity, or while eating or drinking, such as at a restaurant.

Ultimately people who refuse to wear a mask will not be ticketed or subjected to a criminal penalty. Enforcement will be complaint-based. The statute and order are aimed at businesses and operators of indoor public spaces, the responsibility is on the business to maintain compliance.