South Carolina removes mandatory mask legislation, face coverings still enforced in Aiken

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster is relaxing some COVID-19 restrictions in the state.

In his announcement, McMaster issued an executive order that face coverings would no longer be mandatory in governmental buildings, while still recommending them in places such as restaurants. 

This is the beginning of a process where government employees can return to work in full capacity, though a gradual return for the thousands of state employees.

This executive order, however, does not raise city or organizational mandates.  The city of Aiken still has ordinance number 11192020, which requires individuals to wear face coverings when in a retail or commercial establishment that is open to the public.

The USC Aiken retains its policies for mask-wearing.  Individuals on campus are to follow the university’s “Ready Set Return” plan, which still requires the use of face coverings when inside buildings with other individuals nearby.  Individuals are encouraged to maintain the quarantine for two weeks if they are exposed to an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Students or faculty with concerns should contact the university’s COVID-19 helpline at 803-641-3271 or COVID-Helpline@usca.edu.