Miami Beach Police can now issue citations to non-mask wearers who violate COVID order

MIAMI (WFLA/WTVJ) – Miami Beach has authorized police officers to hand out citations to people who refuse to wear masks in the city’s commercial districts during the holiday season.

City Manager Jimmy Morales said the enforcement, which begins Wednesday, is in response to the anticipation of a high number of visitors for Thanksgiving weekend.

Officers are authorized to hand out masks to people who are not wearing one. If they refuse to take it, the officer will then issue a citation.

This is despite of an executive order from Gov. Ron DeSantis that suspended the collection of COVID-19 related fines back in Septemeber.

“We recognize that under the governor’s order, we cannot collect any fine or penalty, but the purpose is more about putting folks on notice and encouraging safe behavior,” Morales said in a statement Tuesday.

The enforcement plan will last at least through the weekend.