Today@Willamette

Face coverings requirement expands statewide

COVID-19 Response Team

Due to the recent surge of COVID-19 cases in Oregon, Governor Kate Brown has extended the executive order and guidelines requiring face coverings while using indoor public spaces to all Oregon counties. The requirement goes into effect today. 

The governor stresses that the coming holiday weekend is a critical point in the pandemic. If Oregonians don’t take further action to reduce the spread of the disease, the state’s hospitals could be overwhelmed within weeks. Brown urges residents to make choices that will help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

• Wear face coverings when in public spaces.
• Practice six feet of social distancing.
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Stay home if you’re feeling sick.
• Keep Fourth of July celebrations small and local.

“Oregonians have all made incredible sacrifices over the last several months that have saved thousands of lives,” Brown said. “The actions we take now can protect our friends, neighbors, loved ones and fellow Oregonians from this disease, and prevent the need for another statewide shutdown. We are truly all in this together.”

This new order imposes no additional requirements to Willamette's current policy that has required the use of face coverings on campus since May 20. If you forget to bring your mask to campus, single-use masks are available at the Service Center. Please call when you arrive (503-370-6300), and the staff will let you in. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.