Gov. Cox: ‘You Don’t Need To Be A Jerk’ About Wearing Masks In Businesses That Require Them

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Gov. Spencer Cox had some advice for Utahns as mask requirements are lifted across the state: “You don’t need to be a jerk.”

The governor, speaking at his weekly COVID-19 update, urged Utahns to be respectful of workers and clerks who are following private businesses’ guidelines to wear masks – even after masks are no longer required by the government.

Cox’s office on Tuesday announced it would be moving up the date of vaccine eligibility for all adults to April 1. The decision was made in light of recent legislation that will lift mask restrictions on April 10.

Masks will still be required in schools as well as in large gatherings of 50 people or more.

Despite the end of required face coverings in public spaces, Cox strongly advised Utahns to remain vigilant.

“If we’re not careful, and we’re seeing a plateau this week, the virus can spread quickly again,” he said. “We certainly don’t want another surge, so still take necessary precautions.”

He added that some businesses and people will continue to choose to wear masks – and that should not warrant rude behavior.

“If you go into a business and they are requiring you to wear masks, wear masks,” he said. “Don’t yell at the clerk. Don’t yell at the store manager. Don’t make a fool of yourself because you don’t want to wear a mask.”

The governor said businesses “absolutely have a right to require masks.”

“If you don’t like it, go shop somewhere else,” he said. “You don’t need to be a jerk to people that you come in contact with.”

“We live in a society and we should care about other people,” he added. “If you don’t care about other people, then don’t go to places where other people are.”

Cox also advised against verbally attacking those who choose not to wear masks after the mandate has been lifted.

“Please be kind to each other, please be patient to each other,” he said. “Let’s show people what an incredible place Utah is to live.”