As if the world wasn't complicated enough, Slidell small business owners are now having to decipher what COVID-19 resource signs to use on their doors. In my quest to find one for my own door I realized I didn't like any of the ones I've seen. None of them encompassed the current law/mandate (as of the date of it's creation) nor did they have exemptions on them in a manner that made it easy to understand.
Sure, I could have slapped WEAR A MASK on my door but as we all know, there's more to it than just that. If you're under 8 then you are exempt from wearing a mask. Have health issues that render a mask detrimental to your health? No mask is required for you either. At the same time, we have all seen news reports of businesses getting shut down or fined for their customers not wearing a mask. In my opinion, having the sign with those caveats on there lets folks know you need to wear a mask here because it's required by our State and in the event they are not wearing a mask, this sign (potentially) covers you.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Be careful of the questions you or your staff are asking customers in your Northshore business. If you start asking folks what medical conditions they have for not wearing a mask, then you are toeing the line of an Americans With Disabilities Act infringement. If you have this sign (and/or a voice recording in your store) that repeats the exemptions, then you could very likely assume that those without a mask on have a valid reason for it. If you suspect they do not, you could simply make an announcement or tell folks, "Masks are required pursuant to the Governor's order unless you're under 8 or have a medical exemption." You've done your due diligence.
DISCLAIMER: Just because you're using the sign doesn't mean an attorney client relationship has been established. It's just my interpretation of the current Louisiana Governor's orders as of the date it was created. Always consult your legal team first
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