As the statewide mask order goes into effect on Friday, a number of county sheriffs across the state have said that they will not be enforcing the Governor's order.
Under the order, businesses and customers can be cited for non-compliance.
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Law enforcement has the authority to utilize trespassing laws to help enforce the order.
The city of Raleigh began a mask order on June 19, a full week before the statewide order takes effect. Mayor Mary Ann Baldwin expressed support for a statewide order at the time.
But even though law enforcement has the option to enforce the orders does not mean that they will.
A number of county sheriffs have told WRAL News or made public statements declaring that they will not be doing so for numerous reasons.
I want to make it crystal clear that the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office will NOT attempt to enforce the Governor’s order to wear a mask in public places," wrote Duplin County Sheriff Blake Wallace in a Facebook post. "I do not believe the order is enforceable nor constitutionally sound."
The following county sheriff's offices say they will not be enforcing the mask order:
- Alamance County
- Bladen County
- Duplin County
- Halifax County
- Johnston County
- Lee County
- Moore County
- Sampson County