In a surprising turn of events, the North Carolina General Assembly is considering a bill that would ban masks in the name of public safety. The bill, known as HB 237 or the “Unmasking Mobs and Criminals Act,” is aimed at preventing protestors from hiding behind masks while committing crimes.
While lawmakers supporting the bill argue that it is necessary to crack down on protestors, health experts are concerned about the unintended consequences of such a ban. State Rep. Erin Pare (R-Wake County) initially supported the bill but has since expressed discomfort with the Senate version, which lacks exemptions for those who wear masks for medical or safety reasons.
Pare emphasized the importance of allowing individuals the freedom to wear masks in public places, especially during a pandemic. She has been receiving calls from concerned constituents and plans to urge other lawmakers to vote against the bill unless the medical exemption is reinstated.
One Durham resident, Renee Nixon, expressed her frustration with the bill, questioning who would be responsible for her healthcare expenses if she were to fall ill due to not being able to wear a mask. The Senate version of the bill passed along party lines, with Republicans in favor and Democrats opposed.
As the bill heads back to a conference committee for further debate, it remains to be seen whether the medical exemption will be included in the final version. The controversy surrounding the “Unmasking Mobs and Criminals Act” highlights the ongoing debate over public safety and individual freedoms in North Carolina.