Wilmington reacts to mandatory face coverings in North Carolina

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Governor Cooper announced the state of North Carolina would remain in phase two and starting at 5pm on Friday face coverings are mandatory when physical distance is not possible.

The reaction from people in the Cape Fear was overwhelmingly positive.

One man who chose not to go on camera said if a minor inconvenience like wearing a mask could save a life, he was okay with it.

“A little surprising, but honestly the best choice and I really support him in this decision,” Devon Boyd said.

“I honestly think it was a really good choice by the governor because I know a lot of people are still hoping we’ll move into phase 3 and I think that as cases have continued to rise it’s important to take every precaution that we can right now,” Hannah Gantz said.

“The more we come out, the more its going to come out and spread to more people. So I feel like maybe after a couple of months with the new ruling with the masks, we’ll start to see a decrease in the virus,” Jaden Rice said.

“I think it’s a really responsible decision. I think we pushed reopening too quickly, against scientific evidence, and I think it’s a responsible decision to protect everyone,” Holland Howard said.

But a few people did express their disapproval of the governor’s order.

They chose not to go on camera, but one man said he believed the governor is overstepping with the order.

Another said they believed wearing a mask is useless and doesn’t prevent the spread of anything.

One man called the order just plain stupid.

The order requiring face coverings will go into effect at 5pm on Friday.

Those exempt from wearing masks include people who have medical conditions that cause trouble breathing, children under 11, and people who are actively eating or drinking.

For a full list of exemptions and details on the order, click here.